Description
If you’re searching for the perfect centerpiece for your holiday table, look no further than this Maple-Glazed Turkey. This recipe combines the rich sweetness of maple syrup with aromatic herbs and citrus to create a golden, crispy-skinned turkey that’s juicy, flavorful, and unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a festive dinner party, this Maple-Glazed Turkey will impress your guests and simplify your prep.
Ingredients
**Ingredients** – 1 whole turkey (14 pounds), pre-brined (e.g., Honeysuckle White®) – 2¼ cups pure maple syrup – 1 teaspoon paprika – ½ teaspoon garlic powder – ½ teaspoon dried thyme – ½ teaspoon dried rosemary – ½ teaspoon white pepper – 1 teaspoon salt – 4 mandarin oranges (optional, for cavity) – 2 lemons, halved (optional, for cavity) These ingredients form the base of the maple glaze and the aromatic stuffing. The citrus fruits help steam the turkey from the inside, adding moisture and subtle flavor.
Instructions
1. **Prepare the Turkey** Remove packaging, discard giblets, and pat the turkey completely dry. Do not rinse. 2. **Stuff the Cavity** Insert halved lemons and mandarins to infuse moisture and aroma. 3. **Make the Maple Glaze** Combine maple syrup, paprika, garlic powder, thyme, rosemary, white pepper, and salt. Stir until smooth. 4. **Preheat Oven** Set oven to 325°F (165°C). Place turkey breast-side up on a rack in a large roasting pan. 5. **Apply the First Glaze** Brush half of the glaze over the turkey before roasting. 6. **Roast and Baste** Roast uncovered. At 30 and 60 minutes, baste with pan juices and apply remaining glaze in layers. 7. **Check Temperature** Roast until the thickest part of the thigh reaches 170°F. Use a thermometer—ignore the pop-up timer. 8. **Rest and Serve** Tent the turkey with foil and rest for 10–15 minutes before carving.
Notes
**Tips for Success** – Use a pre-brined turkey to skip soaking time. – Dry the skin thoroughly for extra crispness. – Apply glaze in layers to build a caramelized finish. – Stuff with citrus for moisture and aroma. – Let rest before carving for juicy slices. **Cooking Time Guidelines** – Roast for about 15 minutes per pound at 325°F. – A 14-pound turkey takes roughly 3½ hours. **Storage & Leftovers** – Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. – Reheat covered with foil in a 300°F oven with a splash of broth. – Use leftovers for sandwiches, soups, or salads. **Perfect Pairings** – Creamy mashed potatoes – Italian-style stuffing with herbs – Cranberry compote or relish – Buttery crescent rolls – Roasted Brussels sprouts with apples and dates **Dessert Ideas** – Pumpkin pie with maple whipped cream – Apple crisp with oat topping – Maple-glazed donuts **FAQs** – *Can I use fresh herbs?* Yes — use 1 tbsp fresh for every ½ tsp dried. – *Can I make the glaze ahead?* Yes, up to 3 days in advance. – *Can I use the glaze on other meats?* Works perfectly on chicken, pork, or ham. – *What if it browns too quickly?* Tent with foil to prevent burning. **Final Thoughts** This Maple-Glazed Turkey combines ease, elegance, and unforgettable flavor. With its golden skin and juicy interior, it’s sure to become a beloved holiday tradition. Whether for Thanksgiving or Christmas, it’s a guaranteed showstopper.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 ounces per serving