Bourbon and Brown Sugar Glazed Turkey

Introduction

There’s something magical about a beautifully roasted turkey on a special occasion. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a cozy Sunday dinner, the turkey takes center stage. But let’s be honest: sometimes plain old roasted turkey can feel a little lackluster. Enter the Bourbon and Brown Sugar Glazed Turkey, a recipe that takes your bird from ordinary to extraordinary in one glorious glaze.

This turkey is a showstopper, boasting a perfectly crispy skin and a rich, sweet-and-savory glaze that makes every bite irresistible. The combination of bourbon and brown sugar gives the turkey a deep, smoky flavor with just the right amount of sweetness. Imagine a crispy skin with caramelized edges, giving way to juicy, tender meat that’s infused with the rich flavors of the glaze. This turkey is perfect for holiday feasts or any occasion when you want to wow your guests with something special.

I first discovered this recipe a few years ago during a holiday gathering. I wanted to try something a little different from the usual herb-basted turkey, and the idea of using bourbon and brown sugar was too tempting to resist. It quickly became a family favorite, and now, every time I make it, I’m met with requests for the recipe. Trust me, once you try it, this turkey will become your go-to for special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re on the fence about trying something new for your turkey, let me reassure you: this Bourbon and Brown Sugar Glazed Turkey is exactly what you need. Here’s why:

• Easy to Make: Despite its impressive flavor profile, this turkey is surprisingly easy to make. The glaze comes together in minutes, and while the turkey is roasting, you don’t have to do much other than baste it with the glaze every 30 minutes.
• Flavor Explosion: The bourbon adds a subtle smokiness, while the brown sugar gives the glaze a rich sweetness that complements the savory turkey perfectly. It’s a perfect balance of flavors that will make your taste buds do a happy dance.
• Juicy and Tender: Thanks to the glaze, this turkey comes out incredibly juicy and tender. The sugar in the glaze caramelizes during roasting, locking in moisture and creating a crispy, golden skin that’s simply irresistible.
• Impress Your Guests: If you’re looking to impress your guests (or just treat yourself), this turkey is sure to do the trick. It looks stunning on the table and tastes even better.

This turkey is the kind of recipe that will leave your guests asking for seconds—and for the recipe!

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes (includes roasting time and glaze preparation)
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Servings: Serves 8-10 people
• Calories per serving: 350 calories
• Protein: 30g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Bourbon and Brown Sugar Glazed Turkey:

Turkey:

• 1 whole turkey (10-12 pounds), thawed if frozen
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (optional)

Bourbon and Brown Sugar Glaze:

• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup bourbon (choose your favorite brand)
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a nice smoky flavor)
• Pinch of salt

Why These Ingredients Matter:

• Brown Sugar: The star of the glaze, it creates a rich, caramelized flavor that complements the turkey perfectly.
• Bourbon: Adds depth, warmth, and a smoky flavor to the glaze.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Balances out the sweetness of the brown sugar with its tangy kick.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds umami and depth of flavor, making the glaze savory and irresistible.
• Fresh Herbs and Spices: Rosemary, thyme, garlic, and onion powder create aromatic layers of flavor that elevate the glaze.

These simple ingredients come together to create a glaze that will transform your turkey into something truly special.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s walk through the process of making this Bourbon and Brown Sugar Glazed Turkey step by step.

1st Step: Prep the Turkey

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Position your oven rack in the lower third of the oven.
2. Prepare the turkey: Pat the turkey dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the skin become crispy when roasting.
3. Season the turkey: Rub the entire turkey with olive oil, making sure it’s evenly coated. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. If you’re using fresh thyme, sprinkle it inside the turkey’s cavity and on top of the skin for added flavor.
4. Tuck the wings: Tuck the wings underneath the bird to ensure they cook evenly and don’t burn.
5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan: Set the turkey breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan. This helps the heat circulate evenly around the turkey, promoting even cooking.

2nd Step: Make the Glaze

1. Combine the glaze ingredients: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, melted butter, rosemary, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt.
2. Simmer the glaze: Stir the ingredients together and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens slightly. Don’t let it boil for too long—just enough to bring the flavors together.
3. Remove from heat: Once the glaze has thickened, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool slightly.

3rd Step: Roast the Turkey

1. Roast the turkey: Place the turkey in the preheated oven and roast it for about 2 to 2 ½ hours, basting every 30 minutes with the bourbon glaze. This will give the turkey a lovely caramelized finish.
2. Baste with glaze: Every 30 minutes, use a baster or spoon to pour the glaze over the turkey. This will keep the turkey moist and help build that beautiful, sticky coating. Be sure to cover the entire bird—don’t miss any spots!
3. Check for doneness: After 2 ½ hours, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey. It should read 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. If it’s not done, continue roasting and check every 15 minutes.

4th Step: Rest the Turkey

1. Rest the turkey: Once the turkey reaches 165°F, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meat tender and juicy.
2. Serve: After resting, carve the turkey and drizzle with the remaining bourbon glaze. Serve and enjoy!

Tips for Perfection:

• Don’t skip the basting: Basting every 30 minutes helps keep the turkey juicy and builds a rich, flavorful crust.
• Use a meat thermometer: This is crucial to ensure your turkey is cooked to perfection—no guesswork involved!
• Save extra glaze: If you have extra glaze, serve it on the side as a dipping sauce for the turkey or pour it over mashed potatoes. You won’t regret it!

How to Serve

This Bourbon and Brown Sugar Glazed Turkey is perfect for a variety of occasions, from holiday meals to Sunday dinners. Here are a few serving suggestions to round out the meal:

• Serve over mashed potatoes: The rich, flavorful glaze is perfect for drizzling over a bowl of creamy mashed potatoes.
• Pair with roasted vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes complement the sweetness of the glaze.
• Add a side salad: A crisp salad with arugula, candied pecans, and goat cheese is the perfect contrast to the rich turkey.

For a fun twist, serve the turkey with a glass of spiced apple cider or a light, refreshing sparkling water to balance the richness of the glaze.

Additional Tips

Here are five helpful tips to ensure your Bourbon and Brown Sugar Glazed Turkey turns out perfectly every time:

1. Use a roasting rack: A roasting rack allows the heat to circulate evenly around the turkey, ensuring a crisp skin and even cooking.
2. Rest before carving: Don’t skip the resting step! Letting the turkey rest helps the juices settle, ensuring a tender and juicy bird.
3. Baste regularly: Basting every 30 minutes keeps the turkey moist and helps develop a beautifully caramelized glaze.
4. Don’t overcook the turkey: A meat thermometer is your best friend. The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh.
5. Make extra glaze: If you love the glaze (and I know you will), make a little extra and serve it on the side or over your side dishes for an added flavor boost.

Recipe Variations

While this Bourbon and Brown Sugar Glazed Turkey is delicious as is, here are a few variations you can try:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the glaze for a subtle spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the brown sugar.
• Herb Variations: If you prefer a different herb, try using thyme, sage, or oregano in place of rosemary for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Orange Glaze: Add the zest of one orange to the glaze for a citrusy twist that complements the bourbon and brown sugar.
• Vegetarian Option: While this recipe is for turkey, you can use the glaze to add flavor to roasted vegetables or a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh.

Freezing and Storage

If you have leftovers (though I highly doubt it!), here’s how to store and freeze them:

• Storage: Store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The glaze will keep the turkey moist, so it’ll still be delicious on day 2 or 3.
• Freezing: You can also freeze the leftover turkey. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.
• Reheating: To keep the turkey moist when reheating, cover it with foil and reheat in the oven. If you want the skin to crisp up again, uncover it during the last 10 minutes of heating.

Special Equipment

• Roasting Pan with Rack: Essential for roasting the turkey evenly and ensuring crispy skin.
• Meat Thermometer: A reliable meat thermometer is a must to ensure the turkey is cooked to perfection.
• Baster or Spoon: To baste the turkey with the glaze every 30 minutes.

FAQ Section

Can I use store-bought bourbon?

Yes, absolutely! Choose a bourbon that you enjoy drinking. The better the quality, the more it will enhance the flavor of the glaze.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the glaze and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days before using it. You can also season the turkey the night before and refrigerate it, but be sure to let it come to room temperature before roasting.

Can I use a smaller turkey?

Yes, just adjust the cooking time accordingly. A smaller turkey will take less time to cook, so check the internal temperature earlier.

What if I don’t have a roasting rack?

If you don’t have a roasting rack, you can use a bed of chopped vegetables (like carrots, celery, and onions) to elevate the turkey. This will help the turkey cook evenly while infusing flavor into the bird.

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Conclusion

This Bourbon and Brown Sugar Glazed Turkey is a game-changer. With its sweet and smoky glaze, crispy skin, and juicy meat, it’s the perfect dish to impress your family and friends at any special occasion. I know you’re going to love it, and I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you!

If you try this recipe, be sure to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see your beautiful turkey creations! And don’t forget to leave a comment letting me know how you enjoyed it. Happy cooking, and enjoy the delicious flavors of this incredible turkey!