Tired of the traditional holiday turkey that requires an entire day of preparation and often turns out disappointingly dry? At Cooks Foody, we’ve perfected a Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast that will absolutely steal the show at your next gathering – without stealing your entire day.

This juicy, flavor-packed turkey breast delivers the perfect balance of sweet and tangy notes from cranberry and orange while maintaining that tender, succulent texture we all crave.

As someone who’s tested dozens of turkey recipes over my years at Cooks Foody, I can confidently say this glazed masterpiece has become our most requested holiday recipe.

Like Elizabeth Harper from our Austin test kitchen says, “This isn’t just another turkey recipe it’s the solution to holiday cooking stress.” In the following sections, I’ll walk you through selecting the perfect turkey breast, creating that unforgettable cranberry orange glaze, and mastering the cooking process for a show stopping centerpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why This Cranberry Orange

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Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe That Will Wow Your Holiday Guests

Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe Works

Focuses on the breast only – easier to cook evenly than a whole turkey
Sweet-tart glaze creates a gorgeous caramelized exterior
Prep takes just 20 minutes with impressive results
Perfect for smaller gatherings or as a second option alongside a whole turkey
Makes spectacular leftovers for sandwiches and salads

Choosing the Right Turkey Breast for Cranberry Orange Glazing

Best Cuts for This Recipe

For the perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast, opt for a bone-in, skin-on turkey breast between 4-6 pounds. The bone helps conduct heat evenly while the skin creates a protective layer that seals in moisture and provides the perfect surface for our glaze to caramelize. For smaller gatherings, a 2-3 pound boneless turkey breast works well too, though you’ll need to adjust cooking time.

Buying Tips

When selecting your turkey breast, look for:

Pink-white flesh with no discoloration
Skin that’s intact with no tears
Fresh, not previously frozen when possible
No added solutions or pre-brining (check the label)

Substitutions

If turkey breast isn’t available, consider these alternatives:

Bone-in chicken breasts (reduce cooking time by about 40%)
Turkey tenderloin (ideal for very small gatherings)
Turkey thighs (for those who prefer dark meat)

Looking for a chocolatey treat for dessert? Check out our Candy Cane Brownie Bombs to complete your meal!

Ingredients & Prep for Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

How Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Steals the Show

Turkey Prep Essentials

Before getting started, ensure your turkey breast is completely thawed if purchased frozen. Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels to promote better browning and crisping of the skin. Allow it to come to room temperature for 30-45 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking throughout.

Glaze Ingredients

1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons orange zest
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Salt and pepper to taste

Pantry Staples

You’ll also need:

Olive oil for rubbing the turkey
Kosher salt
Fresh ground black pepper
Garlic powder
Dried thyme and rosemary (if fresh isn’t available)
Kitchen twine (for boneless breast)

Step-by-Step Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Cooking Instructions

Pre-Cooking Turkey Breast Prep

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons olive oil with 1 teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, dried thyme, and dried rosemary.
Gently loosen the skin from the turkey breast without removing it completely.
Rub half of the seasoning mixture under the skin directly onto the meat.
Rub the remaining mixture over the skin and all sides of the turkey breast.
Place the turkey breast skin side up on a rack in a roasting pan.

Cooking Method for Turkey Breast

Pour 1 cup of chicken broth in the bottom of the roasting pan to prevent drippings from burning and to add moisture.
Insert a probe thermometer into the thickest part of the breast if available.
Roast uncovered for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
While the turkey is cooking, prepare the cranberry orange glaze by combining all glaze ingredients in a saucepan.
Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce to low and cook for 10-15 minutes until cranberries burst and mixture thickens slightly.
During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the turkey generously with the glaze every 10 minutes.

Doneness Check for Turkey Breast

The most accurate way to determine if your turkey breast is perfectly cooked is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the breast, avoiding bone. The turkey is ready when it registers 165°F (74°C), but remove it from the oven at 160°F (71°C) as the temperature will continue to rise during resting.

Resting Your Turkey Breast

Once your Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast reaches the target temperature, remove it from the oven and tent loosely with aluminum foil. Allow it to rest for at least 15-20 minutes before carving. This critical step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is moist and flavorful.

After enjoying this delicious main course, satisfy your sweet tooth with our Pumpkin Cheesecake Truffles for dessert!

Pro Tips for Perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

Avoiding Dry Turkey Breast

Use a meat thermometer to prevent overcooking
Don’t skip the resting period after cooking
Consider brining your turkey breast overnight for extra moisture insurance
Roast breast-side up so fat from the skin bastes the meat
Keep that skin on! It’s your best protection against dryness

Tool Recommendations for Turkey Preparation

Digital probe thermometer with alarm
Heavy-duty roasting pan with rack
Silicone basting brush for glaze application
Sharp carving knife
Kitchen twine (if using boneless breast)

Storage & Reheating Glazed Turkey

Store leftover turkey in an airtight container with a small amount of broth or gravy to maintain moisture. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. For reheating, cover loosely with foil and warm in a 300°F oven until it reaches 165°F internally. Add a splash of broth to the bottom of the pan to create steam.

Find more holiday inspiration on our Pinterest page where we share stunning food photography and seasonal recipe collections!

Flavor Variations for Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

Spicy Twist

Add 1-2 teaspoons of chipotle powder or ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a sweet-heat combination that perfectly complements the tangy cranberry and orange flavors. For a more complex heat, add a tablespoon of minced jalapeño or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the glaze while simmering.

Low-Sugar Option

For those watching their sugar intake, replace the honey with a monk fruit sweetener and use unsweetened cranberries. Add a few drops of liquid stevia to taste, and increase the orange zest to amplify the natural sweetness without adding extra sugars.

Global Flavors

Flavor Profile	Key Additions to Base Glaze	Serving Suggestion
Mediterranean	1 tbsp balsamic, 2 tsp rosemary, 1 tsp thyme	Serve with roasted olives and artichokes
Asian-Inspired	2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp ginger, star anise	Pair with sesame green beans
Moroccan	1 tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp cumin, pinch of saffron	Serve with couscous
Scandinavian	1 tbsp juniper berries, ½ tsp cardamom	Pair with lingonberry sauce

Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

This show-stopping Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast deserves equally impressive sides:

Roasted root vegetables with herbs and orange zest
Wild rice pilaf with dried cranberries and toasted pecans
Maple-glazed brussels sprouts with bacon
Rosemary garlic mashed potatoes or a creamy parmesan polenta
Fresh arugula salad with orange segments and pomegranate seeds

For beverages, consider sparkling apple cider, cranberry spritzers, or a pinot noir. The fruity notes in these drinks complement the cranberry orange flavors beautifully.

FAQs About Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

Can I make this recipe with a frozen turkey breast?

Yes, but ensure it’s completely thawed before cooking. Allow approximately 24 hours of thawing time in the refrigerator for every 4-5 pounds. Never cook a partially frozen turkey breast as it will cook unevenly.

Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! The cranberry orange glaze can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Gently reheat before applying to the turkey.

What’s the best way to carve a turkey breast?

Remove the entire breast from the bone first by cutting along the breastbone and ribs. Place the whole breast on a cutting board and slice against the grain into ¼-inch thick slices for the juiciest results.

How do I know if my turkey breast is done without a thermometer?

While a thermometer is strongly recommended, you can check by inserting a knife into the thickest part – the juices should run clear with no pinkness. The meat should feel firm but still have a slight spring when pressed.

Looking for another show-stopping dessert option? Our Candy Cane Brownie Bombs are perfect for holiday gatherings!

Conclusion

The Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast is more than just a recipe it’s your solution to holiday meal success. This approach delivers all the festive flavors everyone expects while eliminating the stress of cooking a whole turkey. The stunning presentation of the glazed breast, with its glistening cranberry-orange coating, truly steals the show without stealing your entire day in the kitchen.

As Daniel from our Portland test kitchen says, “Food should bring joy to both the cook and those gathered at the table.” This recipe embodies that philosophy perfectly.

So whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or contributing to a larger feast, give yourself the gift of this simpler, more reliable approach to turkey. The combination of juicy meat and that sweet-tart glaze creates a memorable centerpiece that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

We’d love to see your results! Share your Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast photos with us on social media using #CooksFoody, and let us know how this show-stopper worked for your celebration.

How Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Steals the Show