Maple-Bourbon Glazed Turkey brings incredible flavor to your holiday table. With a delicious blend of maple syrup and herbs, it makes any gathering feel special. The juicy turkey fills the room with an aromatic scent, making it tempting for everyone to gather around. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any family feast, this recipe is easy enough for beginners to follow, delighting friends and family alike. Get ready to dive into the joy of cooking with this yummy turkey treat! 🍁🦃
why make this recipe
This Maple-Bourbon Glazed Turkey is a fantastic choice for your next special occasion. The sweet and savory glaze adds a unique twist to traditional turkey. It’s a standout dish that will impress your guests. Plus, preparing it with a simple dry brine ensures the meat stays tender and flavorful. Easy, delicious, and full of flavor, this turkey recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
⏱️ Time Breakdown
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 80-90 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Servings: 10-12
how to make Maple-Bourbon Glazed Turkey
Ingredients:
- 12-14 lb turkey, (defrosted)
- 1/3 cup kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon dried rubbed sage
- 2 yellow onions, (quartered)
- 4 large carrots, (roughly chopped)
- 1 bulb of garlic, (top removed to expose the cloves)
- 4 sprigs thyme
- 4 sprigs sage
- 1 1/2 cups turkey stock
- 2 sticks (8 oz) salted butter
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoons minced fresh sage leaves
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh thyme leaves
✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
"This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free."
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Baking dish (if needed)
Directions:
- Mix the dry brine. In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, brown sugar, and sage. Set it aside.
- Prep the turkey. Remove the neck and giblets from the turkey cavity. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Make sure your cutting board is stable; if it doesn’t have rubber feet, place a wet paper towel underneath to prevent slipping. Position the turkey breast-side down on the cutting board.
- Spatchcock the turkey. Using kitchen shears, cut along one side of the turkey spine, separating it from the ribs. Repeat on the other side. Flip the turkey over so the breasts are facing up and legs outward. Firmly press down on the breast bone until it cracks, laying the turkey flat.
- Coat the turkey with the dry brine. Gently separate the skin from the breast and leg meat. Rub the salt mixture all over the turkey, including under the skin. Place the turkey on a baking sheet, cover it loosely with foil, and refrigerate for 24 to 48 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Make the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the butter, maple syrup, dijon mustard, and fresh herbs. Simmer on medium-low heat for about 10 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Prep the turkey for roasting. Take the turkey out of the fridge an hour before cooking. Place the onions, carrots, garlic, and herbs in a roasting pan. Pour in the turkey stock. Set the turkey on top, breast side up.
- Roast and baste the turkey. Let it roast for 45 minutes. Baste it every 10 minutes with the maple glaze, until the thickest part of the leg reaches 160°F (about 80-90 minutes total). Once cooked, carefully transfer the turkey to a cutting board and tent with foil for 30 minutes before carving.
- Discard the vegetables from the pan and use the drippings to create a delicious gravy! 🍽️
how to serve Maple-Bourbon Glazed Turkey
Serve your Maple-Bourbon Glazed Turkey on a large platter. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs or fruit for a beautiful presentation. Pair it with classic sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce for a festive meal.
how to store Maple-Bourbon Glazed Turkey
Store any leftover turkey in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze it for later. Just make sure to wrap the turkey tightly in foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag.
💡 Pro Tips
- Dry brining deliciousness: Letting the turkey brine for 48 hours enhances the flavor and moisture.
- Resting is crucial: Give the turkey time to rest for juicy meat.
- Glaze it up: Save any leftover glaze to brush on while serving for extra flavor.
variation
Try using different herbs like rosemary or oregano in the glaze for a twist! They will add their unique flavors and complement the sweetness of the maple syrup.
FAQs
Can I use a smaller turkey?
Yes! Adjust cooking times based on the size. A smaller turkey may take less time.
What can I serve with this turkey?
Classic sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or stuffing pair well with this dish.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the glaze and dry brine the turkey a day ahead. Just roast it the morning of your event for freshest results!
