Cranberry Orange Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe

If you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece that’s both comforting and festive, this Cranberry Orange Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe might just become your new favorite. The bright, tangy cranberries paired with sunny orange zest give the turkey such a fresh, vibrant twist — perfect for holiday dinners or whenever you want to impress without too much fuss. I love how the molasses and warm spices in the rub add just the right depth, making every bite cozy and full of flavor.

What makes this Cranberry Orange Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe especially worth trying is how simple it is to prepare but delivers complex layers of taste. It’s a fantastic option when you want a smaller roast or just want to change things up from the usual whole turkey routine. Plus, the beautiful cranberry-orange sauce simmers alongside the turkey as it roasts, creating a gorgeous glaze that’s as tasty as it looks. Trust me, your kitchen will smell incredible, and your guests will be asking for seconds!

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Ingredients & Why They Work

This recipe combines bright citrus, seasonal cranberries, and sweet-spiced notes that all complement a turkey breast roasting perfectly. When shopping, look for fresh cranberries and a good quality turkey breast for best results.

• Turkey breast: Choose a 4-5lb fresh or thawed breast for ideal cooking time and tenderness.
• Brown sugar: Adds caramelized sweetness that balances the tangy flavors.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings savory depth and enhances aromas.
• Canola oil: Helps the rub stick to the turkey and promotes even browning.
• Dark molasses: Gives a rich, subtle molasses flavor and moisture to the rub.
• Cinnamon and nutmeg: Warm spices that add a festive and comforting touch.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural turkey flavors.
• Fresh cranberries: Provide tart bursts and texture in the sauce.
• Whole berry cranberry sauce: Adds sweetness and thickens the sauce for richness.
• Lingonberry jam (or cranberry jam/orange marmalade): Introduces a complex fruity note that pairs perfectly with cranberry and orange.
• Orange juice & zest: Bright citrus elements that keep the sauce fresh and lively.
• Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce so it clings deliciously to the turkey.

Tweak to Your Taste

I often like to sharpen the citrus punch by adding a little extra orange zest or swapping lingonberry jam with tangy orange marmalade — depending on what I have on hand. Feel free to tailor the spice levels or jam flavors to suit your family’s palate!

• Variation: For a more savory edge, I’ve sprinkled fresh rosemary or thyme on top before roasting to add herbal aroma that pairs well.
• Dietary Option: If you need a gluten-free version, just double-check your cornstarch and jams are gluten-free, which they often are.
• Seasonal Swap: In winter, pomegranate seeds make a lovely garnish for a festive pop of color and crunch.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Cranberry Orange Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Turkey with Care

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While it warms, use a fork to gently prick the turkey breast all over—this helps the rub and sauce soak in flavors better. Then mix all your rub ingredients (brown sugar, garlic, oil, molasses, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper) in a bowl. Massage this mixture generously onto the turkey breast, making sure every bit of that skin is covered.

Step 2: Make the Luscious Cranberry Orange Sauce

Combine fresh cranberries, whole berry cranberry sauce, lingonberry jam (or your chosen substitute), and orange zest in a medium bowl. In a separate cup, whisk orange juice with cornstarch until smooth, then stir it into the cranberry mix. This thickens the sauce beautifully as it roasts alongside the turkey.

Step 3: Roast to Juicy Perfection

Lightly grease a roasting pan that fits your turkey snugly—you want it close to the pan edges to roast evenly, not swimming in a giant pan. Place the turkey breast in the pan, then pour most of the cranberry sauce around it, keeping the top mostly clear so the rub can caramelize without burning. Roast for about 1½ hours, or until your internal thermometer reads 165°F. Once out of the oven, tent the turkey with foil and let it rest 15 minutes before carving so juices redistribute.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe

Garnishes

Personally, I love garnishing with a handful of fresh cranberries and a sprinkle of extra orange zest right before serving—it adds color and a nice burst of fresh citrus aroma. A few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary also look lovely and complement the warm spices in the rub.

Side Dishes

For sides, I usually serve this with buttery mashed potatoes, green beans almondine, and maybe a simple wild rice pilaf. The creamy potatoes soak up the cranberry-orange sauce beautifully, making every bite a flavor-packed experience.

Creative Ways to Present

On special occasions, I’ve arranged thin turkey slices fanned out on a large serving platter with dollops of extra sauce in between and fresh orange slices around the edges. It’s festive and gets compliments every time because it looks as pretty as it tastes!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once the turkey breast has cooled, I wrap leftovers tightly in foil or airtight containers, then store in the fridge. It keeps beautifully for 3-4 days—perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

I’ve frozen sliced roasted turkey breast wrapped snugly in plastic wrap and then foil, which stays tasty for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently to keep it moist.

Reheating

To reheat, I like to warm slices in a covered dish at low heat or gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to mimic that fresh juiciness. Avoid microwaving on high, which can dry out the turkey.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Orange Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe has become one of my go-to dishes when I want something special but not overwhelming. It’s reliable, full of flavor, and brightens the table with its lovely blend of fruit and spice. I hope you give it a try and enjoy the wonderful aromas and tastes as much as I do — it’s like sharing a little holiday magic all year round with your family and friends!

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