Cider Brined Turkey Breast Cranberry

Cider Brined Turkey Breast with Cranberry Glaze is a showstopping main dish that brings together the cozy flavors of apple cider brine and a tangy sweet cranberry glaze. Moist flavorful and topped with a glossy fruit finish this turkey breast has quickly become a centerpiece at my holiday gatherings. It is also approachable enough to serve for any memorable family dinner turning an ordinary night into something special.

My family was skeptical the first time I made this instead of roasting a whole bird but everyone raved about how moist and flavorful it was. Now I can never skip the cranberry glaze because it is everyone’s favorite part.

Ingredients

• Boneless skin-on turkey breast: gives you juicy turkey with crisp skin Look for one about 4 pounds with skin intact
• Apple cider: infuses sweet tang throughout the turkey Choose pure apple cider not apple juice for the best flavor
• Kosher salt: helps the brine penetrate and keeps the meat juicy Use coarse kosher salt for accurate salting
• Brown sugar: balances the brine and gently sweetens everything Try dark brown sugar for a deeper flavor
• Black peppercorns: bring a subtle heat Crush lightly before brining for bigger flavor
• Garlic cloves: add earthiness Smash them open to release all their goodness
• Bay leaves and thyme: create savory herbal notes Use fresh if you can for maximum aroma
• Fresh or frozen cranberries: make a tart jewel toned glaze
• Balsamic vinegar: brings out the berry flavor with a bit of tang Good aged balsamic is worth it here
• Orange zest: brightens the glaze Only grate the colored part for the best taste
• Olive oil: gives flavor and helps the skin crisp up during roasting
• Fresh or dried thyme: infuses the roast with cozy herbaceous aroma
• Freshly ground black pepper: seasons the turkey as it roasts

Instructions

Brine the Turkey:

In a large saucepan combine apple cider kosher salt brown sugar peppercorns smashed garlic bay leaves and fresh thyme Heat this mixture gently stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve completely This ensures the brine has a strong flavor that will seep into the turkey Remove from heat add two cups cold water and let the brine come to room temperature You can add some ice to chill things down faster

Soak the Turkey:

Place the turkey breast in a large sealable container or a big zip top bag Pour over the cooled brine then gently press out air so the meat is fully submerged Refrigerate for at least eight hours or overnight Longer soaking means more flavor and juiciness

Make the Cranberry Glaze:

In a small saucepan combine cranberries apple cider sugar balsamic vinegar orange zest and salt Bring this mix to a boil then reduce to a simmer Stir every few minutes letting the cranberries burst and thicken the glaze This usually takes around ten to twelve minutes Allow it to cool and thicken further while you roast the turkey

Prep the Turkey for Roasting:

Remove turkey breast from the brine Rinse it thoroughly under cool water then pat it completely dry with paper towels Place breast side up on a rack in your roasting pan Rub olive oil over every surface sprinkling evenly with freshly ground black pepper and thyme Use your hands to massage in the oil and herbs to get the most even coverage

Start Roasting:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit Place the turkey breast in the prepared roasting pan and slide into the oven Roast for forty five minutes without opening the door This initial phase gives you beautiful skin while allowing the bird to cook most of the way through

Glaze and Finish Roasting:

After forty five minutes begin brushing the turkey with the cooled cranberry glaze Continue roasting for another twenty five to thirty five minutes brushing on additional glaze every ten minutes You want the turkey’s internal temperature to reach 160 degrees Fahrenheit at its thickest part for perfect safety and juicy results

Rest and Slice:

Once your turkey has reached temperature transfer it to a cutting board and tent loosely with foil Rest for fifteen minutes This lets the juices redistribute Slice thickly and serve with a little extra cranberry glaze on the side

Save to Pinterest

The fresh cranberries in this recipe always make me think of my grandmother She would let me help string them every year for holiday décor It feels special to take that memory and put it front and center at our family table Plus watching the cranberries burst while making the glaze is almost as satisfying as eating the turkey

Storage Tips

Leftover turkey stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days For longer storage slice and freeze in meal sized portions wrapped well to prevent dryness Cranberry glaze can be refrigerated separately for a week Warm gently before serving and always bring to room temperature for best flavor

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find fresh turkey breast frozen and thawed works well Instead of apple cider use pear juice or even pomegranate juice for a new twist You can also swap brown sugar for pure maple syrup in the brine which adds a subtle depth Instead of fresh herbs try dried but cut the quantity in half to prevent overpowering the brine and roast

Serving Suggestions

Slice the turkey breast thick and serve over creamy mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables For a festive touch drizzle extra cranberry glaze at the table Pair with a crisp white like Chardonnay or a tart sparkling cider Leftovers are fantastic in hearty grain salads or piled onto sandwiches with a smear of extra glaze

Cultural and Seasonal Touches

Brining turkey with apple cider is a nod to classic American harvest tables and New England autumns The cranberry glaze pays homage to holiday traditions Cranberries in their peak season offer the most vibrant taste and color Swap in fresh rosemary or sage during winter for an earthy twist In summer use stone fruits like cherries in place of cranberries for a different kind of glaze

Save to Pinterest

With advance prep and a vibrant glaze this turkey breast brings both ease and celebration to your table. Let your family savor the juiciest turkey with a festive twist for any occasion.

Recipe FAQs

→ How does apple cider brining affect the turkey?

Apple cider brining imparts moisture, subtle sweetness, and rich flavor to the turkey, ensuring it's juicy after roasting.

→ Can I use fresh or frozen cranberries for the glaze?

Both fresh and frozen cranberries work well, creating a vibrant glaze with tartness and natural color.

→ What is the ideal internal temperature for turkey breast?

The turkey breast should reach 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption and optimal succulence.

→ How long should the turkey rest before slicing?

Rest the turkey breast for about 15 minutes under foil to keep juices locked in before serving.

→ Can leftovers be used in other dishes?

Leftover turkey is delicious in sandwiches, salads, or paired with root vegetables for easy meals.

→ Is this dish suitable for gluten-free and dairy-free diets?

Yes; all ingredients are naturally free from gluten and dairy, making this option diet-friendly.