How do I keep turkey breast moist when cooking a cranberry orange glazed recipe?

To keep turkey breast moist, avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer and remove the breast at 160°F as it will continue to cook while resting to a safe 165°F. Brining the turkey for 12 to 24 hours before cooking locks in moisture. Basting occasionally with the cranberry orange glaze during roasting also adds flavor and helps retain juiciness.

What is the best way to prepare orange zest for cranberry orange glaze?

Wash the orange thoroughly and use a microplane grater or fine zester to remove only the colorful outer peel. Avoid the white pith beneath the skin because it tastes bitter. Rotate the orange as you grate to collect even strips of zest, which provide the fresh citrus aroma essential to the glaze's flavor.

Should I use bone-in or boneless turkey breast for cranberry orange glazed turkey?

Boneless turkey breast is usually preferred for cranberry orange glazed recipes because it cooks more evenly and is easier to slice for serving. Bone-in breasts take longer to cook and can be harder to glaze evenly, but they may offer more flavor. Choose fresh turkey breast without heavy seasoning to let the glaze flavors stand out.

How long should I cook a cranberry orange glazed turkey breast in the oven?

Roast a boneless turkey breast at 350°F for about 20 minutes per pound. Start applying the glaze during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking to prevent burning. Always rely on a meat thermometer to check doneness; remove the turkey when the internal temperature reaches 160°F, then let it rest before slicing.

Can I prepare cranberry orange glaze ahead of time and store it?

Yes, cranberry orange glaze can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before glazing the turkey, gently reheat the glaze on the stovetop or microwave to bring out the flavors and ensure a smooth consistency for even coating.

Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe For Family Meals

Name: Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast
Prep time: 1 h 50 min
Cook time: 1 h 40 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Turkey breast, skin-on, about 4-5 pounds Serves as the main protein, providing a tender base that’s easy to roast and slice for family meals.; Brown sugar Adds sweetness and caramelizes the rub for a flavorful crust on the turkey breast.; Garlic, minced Infuses the rub with aromatic depth, enhancing the overall savory profile of the glazed turkey breast.; Canola oil Helps bind the rub ingredients and promotes even browning of the turkey breast during roasting.; Dark molasses Contributes rich sweetness and moisture to the rub, complementing the cranberry orange glaze.; Cinnamon Brings warm spice notes to the rub, adding a cozy flavor that pairs well with the citrus in the glaze.; Ground nutmeg Offers a subtle, nutty warmth to the rub, making the turkey breast more aromatic and inviting.; Salt Seasons the turkey breast effectively, enhancing all flavors without overwhelming the natural taste.; Ground black pepper Adds a gentle heat to the rub, balancing the sweetness in this Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast.; Fresh cranberries Provide tartness and texture in the sauce, boosting the health benefits with antioxidants.; Whole berry cranberry sauce Forms the base of the glaze, offering a sweet-tart element that ties the dish together.; Lingonberry jam (or substitute with cranberry jam or orange marmalade) Adds fruity depth to the sauce, with options for easy swaps based on availability.; Orange juice Brings bright citrus flavor and acidity to the glaze, helping to tenderize and flavor the turkey breast.; Orange zest Infuses the sauce with fresh, zesty aroma, elevating the overall taste of the Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast.; Cornstarch Acts as a thickener for the sauce, ensuring a glossy finish that coats the turkey perfectly.

Description

🦃 This Cranberry Orange Turkey Breast brings bright, festive flavors and tender, juicy meat perfect for family celebrations.
🍊 The zesty citrus and sweet-tart cranberry sauce create a delicious balance that enhances the holiday dining experience.

Ingredients

Turkey breast, skin-on, about 4-5 pounds Serves as the main protein, providing a tender base that’s easy to roast and slice for family meals.

Brown sugar Adds sweetness and caramelizes the rub for a flavorful crust on the turkey breast.

Garlic, minced Infuses the rub with aromatic depth, enhancing the overall savory profile of the glazed turkey breast.

Canola oil Helps bind the rub ingredients and promotes even browning of the turkey breast during roasting.

Dark molasses Contributes rich sweetness and moisture to the rub, complementing the cranberry orange glaze.

Cinnamon Brings warm spice notes to the rub, adding a cozy flavor that pairs well with the citrus in the glaze.

Ground nutmeg Offers a subtle, nutty warmth to the rub, making the turkey breast more aromatic and inviting.

Salt Seasons the turkey breast effectively, enhancing all flavors without overwhelming the natural taste.

Ground black pepper Adds a gentle heat to the rub, balancing the sweetness in this Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast.

Fresh cranberries Provide tartness and texture in the sauce, boosting the health benefits with antioxidants.

Whole berry cranberry sauce Forms the base of the glaze, offering a sweet-tart element that ties the dish together.

Lingonberry jam (or substitute with cranberry jam or orange marmalade) Adds fruity depth to the sauce, with options for easy swaps based on availability.

Orange juice Brings bright citrus flavor and acidity to the glaze, helping to tenderize and flavor the turkey breast.

Orange zest Infuses the sauce with fresh, zesty aroma, elevating the overall taste of the Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast.

Cornstarch Acts as a thickener for the sauce, ensuring a glossy finish that coats the turkey perfectly.

Instructions

1-First Step: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F and grease a roasting pan just large enough for the turkey breast; this takes about 5 minutes and ensures easy cleanup while setting the stage for a perfectly baked Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast.

2-Second Step: Pierce the turkey breast all over with a fork to help the rub penetrate; this quick action, part of the 10-minute prep time, allows flavors to seep in and keeps the meat moist during roasting.

3-Third Step: Mix the rub blend ingredients brown sugar, minced garlic, canola oil, dark molasses, cinnamon, ground nutmeg, salt, and ground black pepper and rub them thoroughly onto the turkey breast; apply evenly for about 2-3 minutes to enhance the taste and create a tasty crust on this glazed turkey breast.

4-Fourth Step: In a bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, fresh cranberries, lingonberry jam, and orange zest; this mixture forms the base of the glaze and should take around 2 minutes, adding that signature cranberry orange punch to the dish.

5-Fifth Step: Mix the orange juice with cornstarch until dissolved, then stir it into the cranberry mixture; this step, done in 1-2 minutes, thickens the sauce for a glossy finish on the turkey breast.

6-Sixth Step: Place the turkey breast in the prepared pan and pour the sauce around it, making sure not to flood the top to maintain a good roast crust; position it carefully, then bake for about 90 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees F, checking every 30 minutes for even cooking similar poultry techniques.

7-Seventh Step: Once baked, remove the turkey from the oven, cover it loosely with foil, and let it rest for 15 minutes; this resting time allows the internal temperature to rise to 165 degrees F, ensuring juicy meat for serving your Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast.

8-Eighth Step: For glazing, apply any extra sauce during the last 20 minutes of baking to avoid burning, and use a meat thermometer for accuracy; this technique helps achieve a beautiful, flavorful exterior while adapting for dietary needs like low-calorie options by reducing sugar in the mix.

9-Ninth Step: Garnish with extra fresh cranberries and orange zest before slicing; carve against the grain for tender pieces, making this the final touch to present a stunning Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast at your table.

Notes

🌡️ Use a digital meat thermometer to avoid overcooking; remove turkey at 160°F as it continues cooking while resting.
🥄 Avoid pouring excessive sauce on top to maintain a crispy roast crust.
🍗 Cover turkey loosely with foil if it begins browning too quickly.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Category: Dinner, Holiday, Main Dish
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 389
Sugar: 30g
Sodium: 453mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 34g
Cholesterol: 84mg

Keywords: cranberry turkey, orange turkey, festive turkey breast, holiday turkey