If you’re searching for the showstopper centerpiece for your next holiday or family gathering, look no further than Maple-Butter-Glazed Turkey. This stunning roast is all about juicy, tender meat wrapped in a glossy, golden glaze that’s as memorable as it is mouthwatering. It brings together the sweet, woodsy notes of maple syrup, the richness of butter, and the fresh pop of herbs for a turkey that’s anything but ordinary. Get ready for a new tradition—this is the turkey your guests will ask for year after year!

Maple-Butter-Glazed Turkey Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s something magical about simple, quality ingredients coming together to create pure comfort. Each item on this list plays an essential role in developing the flavor, aroma, and irresistible look of your Maple-Butter-Glazed Turkey—don’t skip a thing!

Whole turkey (12–14 pounds): The main event, perfectly sized for feeding a hungry crowd.
Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Infuses the turkey with rich flavor and helps deliver that gorgeous, crisp skin.
Pure maple syrup (1/2 cup): Adds a subtle sweetness and deep, caramel-like glaze that makes this turkey unique.
Dijon mustard (2 tablespoons): Provides a gentle tang that balances out the sweetness and adds complexity.
Fresh rosemary (1 tablespoon, chopped): Brings a piney, aromatic freshness that’s the hallmark of great holiday roasts.
Fresh thyme (1 tablespoon, chopped): Lends a subtle earthiness that works beautifully with the maple and butter.
Kosher salt (1 tablespoon): Essential for seasoning the turkey all the way through and crisping the skin.
Black pepper (1 teaspoon): Adds a mild kick and balances the sweet and savory elements.
Onion (1 quartered): Tucked inside the turkey, it perfumes the meat and adds moisture.
Apple (1 quartered): Contributes natural sweetness and helps keep the turkey juicy.
Garlic cloves (4, smashed): Infuses the turkey with mellow, savory depth as it roasts.
Low-sodium chicken broth (2 cups): Ensures the turkey stays moist and creates flavorful pan juices for basting and gravy.

How to Make Maple-Butter-Glazed Turkey

Step 1: Prep the Turkey

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. Remove the giblets from the cavity of the turkey (save them if you want to make a flavorful stock or gravy later!). Pat the turkey completely dry with paper towels—this helps the skin become extra crispy and golden as it roasts.

Step 2: Mix the Maple-Butter Glaze

In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well blended into a fragrant, creamy mixture. This glaze is the secret to the irresistible crust and deep flavor that defines Maple-Butter-Glazed Turkey.

Step 3: Apply the Glaze

Gently loosen the skin from the turkey breast using your fingers—work slowly so you don’t tear the skin. Rub half of the maple-butter mixture directly under the skin, spreading it evenly for maximum flavor infusion. Massage the remaining glaze over the entire outside of the turkey for that signature shine and taste.

Step 4: Stuff and Set Up

Stuff the inside of the turkey with the quartered onion, apple, and smashed garlic cloves. These aromatics steam gently as the turkey cooks, keeping the meat juicy and adding subtle layers of flavor. Place the turkey breast-side up on a rack set inside a large roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan to keep things moist and to create a rich base for basting and gravy.

Step 5: Roast to Perfection

Loosely tent the turkey with aluminum foil—this prevents the top from browning too quickly while it cooks through. Roast the turkey for about 2.5 hours, then remove the foil and continue roasting for another 1 to 1.5 hours. Every 30 minutes, baste the turkey with the pan juices for a glossy, flavorful finish. The turkey is done when an instant-read thermometer inserted in the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F.

Step 6: Rest and Carve

Let the Maple-Butter-Glazed Turkey rest for 20 to 30 minutes once it’s out of the oven. This ensures the juices redistribute and the meat stays moist when you carve. Slice and serve while it’s still warm—get ready for “oohs” and “aahs” at the table!

How to Serve Maple-Butter-Glazed Turkey

Garnishes

Dress up your platter with fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs for a pop of color and fragrance. Thinly sliced apples, orange wedges, or even whole roasted garlic bulbs add visual flair and hint at the flavors tucked inside your Maple-Butter-Glazed Turkey. If you’re feeling festive, a drizzle of extra warm maple syrup over the sliced turkey makes a lovely finishing touch.

Side Dishes

This turkey is a showstopper with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, or a bright cranberry sauce. Don’t forget a crusty loaf of bread to soak up those luscious pan juices. For something a little different, try a wild rice pilaf or a simple leafy green salad to balance the richness of the Maple-Butter-Glazed Turkey.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dramatic holiday table, carve the turkey at the table and fan out the slices on a large platter surrounded by roasted apples, onions, and sprigs of herbs. Or, for more casual gatherings, pre-slice the turkey in the kitchen and arrange it family-style with little ramekins of pan sauce for dipping. Leftovers make fantastic sandwiches with a swipe of Dijon or a dollop of cranberry relish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the turkey cool to room temperature, then transfer slices and pieces to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days. Keep some of the pan juices or broth with the meat to prevent it from drying out—Maple-Butter-Glazed Turkey is just as delicious the next day!

Freezing

To freeze, wrap cooled slices tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. You can freeze the turkey for up to three months. Label and date your packages so you’ll always know when you’re ready for another taste of Maple-Butter-Glazed Turkey magic.

Reheating

Reheat turkey slices in a baking dish covered with foil. Add a splash of broth or pan juices to keep the meat moist, then warm in a 300°F oven until heated through. For smaller portions, microwave gently with a little added liquid, checking often to avoid drying out the delicate, flavorful meat.

FAQs

Can I use a different size turkey for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time—plan for about 13 minutes per pound, and always use a thermometer to check for doneness. The Maple-Butter-Glazed Turkey technique works beautifully with turkeys both larger and smaller than the original recipe size.

Do I need to brine the turkey first?

Brining is optional, but it can add an extra layer of flavor and moisture. If you have the time, brine your turkey overnight before following the recipe. This step is especially helpful if your turkey has never been brined before, and it pairs perfectly with the maple-butter glaze.

Can I make Maple-Butter-Glazed Turkey ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the turkey a day ahead and reheat it gently, but for the best texture and that signature crispy skin, serve it fresh from the oven if possible. If serving later, slice and store with plenty of pan juices to keep the meat moist.

What type Main Course

Always use pure maple syrup, not pancake syrup or imitation blends. Grade A dark or amber syrups offer the richest flavor and color, giving your Maple-Butter-Glazed Turkey its signature sweetness and beautiful finish.

How do I make gravy from the pan drippings?

After roasting, skim the fat from the pan juices and transfer them to a saucepan. Whisk in a slurry of cornstarch or flour and water, bring to a simmer, and cook until thickened. Season to taste for a savory gravy that’s perfect with every slice of Maple-Butter-Glazed Turkey.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to wow your guests and create lasting memories around the table, give this Maple-Butter-Glazed Turkey a try. It’s a warm, inviting main dish that’s as impressive as it is simple to prepare. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your new holiday tradition!

Maple-Butter-Glazed Turkey Recipe

4.7 from 14 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 4 to 4.5 hours
Yield: 10 to 12 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Maple-Butter-Glazed Turkey recipe delivers a juicy, flavorful roast perfect for holiday dinners or special occasions. The tender turkey is generously coated with a luscious mixture of maple syrup, butter, and fresh herbs, creating a beautifully caramelized glaze. Stuffed with aromatic onion, apple, and garlic, and slow-roasted to perfection, this turkey promises a moist and savory main course that will impress your guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Turkey and Glaze

1 whole turkey (12–14 pounds)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1/2 cup pure maple syrup
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper

Stuffing

1 onion (quartered)
1 apple (quartered)
4 garlic cloves (smashed)

Roasting Liquid

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 325°F. Remove the giblets from the turkey and pat the bird dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy skin and even cooking.
Make the Maple-Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, chopped fresh rosemary, chopped fresh thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are thoroughly blended.
Apply the Glaze: Gently loosen the skin from the turkey breast, being careful not to tear it. Rub half of the maple-butter mixture evenly under the skin to infuse the meat with flavor. Use the remaining glaze to coat the entire outside of the turkey.
Stuff the Turkey: Stuff the cavity of the turkey with the quartered onion, quartered apple, and smashed garlic cloves to add moisture and aromatic flavor from the inside as it roasts.
Roast the Turkey: Place the turkey breast-side up on a rack inside a large roasting pan. Pour the low-sodium chicken broth into the bottom of the pan to keep the environment moist during roasting. Tent the turkey loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning and roast for 2.5 hours.
Remove Foil and Continue Roasting: After 2.5 hours, remove the foil tent. Continue roasting the turkey uncovered for another 1 to 1.5 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the pan juices to keep the turkey moist and enhance the glaze.
Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature at the thickest part of the thigh. The turkey is done when it reaches 165°F.
Rest and Serve: Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20–30 minutes before carving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist slices of turkey.

Notes

For extra flavor, brine the turkey overnight before roasting to keep it moist and tender.
Use the pan drippings to make a rich, flavorful gravy to accompany your turkey.
If your turkey is larger or smaller than 12–14 pounds, adjust the cooking time accordingly—approximately 13 minutes per pound.
Ensure the turkey is fully thawed before cooking to promote even roasting.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 3.5 to 4 hours
Category: Main Course
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: American