Apple Cider Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a turkey recipe that’s bursting with cozy fall flavors and looks downright impressive on the table, you’re in the right place! I’m excited to share my **Apple Cider Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe** that I absolutely love because it’s juicy, packed with sweet and tangy notes, and way easier than you might think. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a new family favorite for special dinners or holiday gatherings.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic here comes from combining fresh turkey breast with a sweet-and-spicy glaze made from apple cider and warm spices. Whenever I shop for this recipe, I opt for bone-in turkey breast because it stays juicier, but boneless works too if you’re short on time.

• Turkey breast: Bone-in adds flavor and keeps the meat moist; if you prefer boneless, just watch your cooking time closely.
• Apple cider: Look for fresh, unsweetened cider for the best natural sweetness and flavor.
• Butter: Use unsalted for better control over seasoning and to avoid overpowering saltiness.
• Brown sugar: Adds richness and helps create that lovely caramel glaze on the turkey.
• Apple cider vinegar: Just a touch cuts through the sweetness balancing the glaze perfectly.
• Dijon mustard: Introduces just the right amount of tangy depth.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances savory undertones.
• Cinnamon: Brings warm, comforting spice notes – don’t skip it!
• Cloves (optional): My secret ingredient for a subtle hint of festive spice.
• Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs: For garnish and an herbal aroma.
• Sliced apples: Adds a fresh, bright touch as a garnish that complements the glaze.

Variations

I love how versatile this Apple Cider Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe is—you can easily tweak it to fit your style, whether you want a bit more spice, a dairy-free option, or something a little more herbaceous.

• Spicy Twist: I once added a pinch of cayenne to the glaze and my family went crazy for the unexpected heat.
• Dairy-Free: Swap butter for olive oil—your glaze will still shine and it works well if you’re avoiding dairy.
• Herb-forward: Mixing in fresh sage or tarragon with rosemary amps up the aromatic factor.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so it’s a safe bet for guests with gluten sensitivities.

How to Make Apple Cider Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe

Step 1: Preheat, Season, and Sear for Golden Goodness

First things first: preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat your turkey breast dry with paper towels—this step is key for getting that beautiful sear. Season generously with salt and pepper all over. Next, heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the turkey breast on all sides until it’s golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. This seals in juices and adds incredible flavor.

Step 2: Roast with Apple Cider for Moisture

Transfer your seared turkey breast to a roasting pan and pour in 1 cup of apple cider. This keeps the meat tender while roasting. Pop it into your preheated oven and let it roast—it’s going to soak up all those delicious apple flavors.

Step 3: Simmer the Glaze to Syrupy Perfection

In a small saucepan, combine the remaining apple cider, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, cinnamon, and cloves. Simmer the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens into a syrupy glaze—about 10 to 15 minutes. You’ll see it transform right before your eyes!

Step 4: Glaze and Finish Roasting

Brush the turkey breast generously with the glaze. Then, back in the oven it goes! Keep basting the turkey every 15 minutes with more glaze. This sticky, flavorful coating caramelizes beautifully while the turkey roasts to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). It usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on your bird’s size.

Step 5: Rest and Garnish

Once out of the oven, resist the urge to carve immediately—let that turkey rest for 10-15 minutes so the juices redistribute. Then garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs and some sliced apples for that picture-perfect finish and burst of freshness.

How to Serve Apple Cider Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe

Garnishes

I personally love sprinkling fresh rosemary and thyme over the turkey—it adds a lovely piney aroma that pairs perfectly with the sweet glaze. A few thin slices of crisp apple on the side not only brighten the plate but also echo the cider flavors, making it a showstopper.

Side Dishes

My go-to sides include creamy mashed potatoes to soak up all that glaze, roasted Brussels sprouts with a bit of balsamic, and a simple green salad with citrus vinaigrette for freshness. These sides balance the richness beautifully and round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For holidays, I’ve arranged the sliced turkey breast on a wooden board, nestled with fresh apple slices and sprigs of thyme, and surrounded by mini pumpkins or gourds for a festive fall vibe. It always impresses guests before they even take a bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After carving, I wrap leftover turkey tightly in foil and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps beautifully for up to 4 days and tastes just as delicious when warmed up the next day.

Freezing

I have frozen sliced turkey breast with the glaze before by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer bag. When thawed, it’s great for quick dinners or sandwiches and retains great flavor.

Reheating

I reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 300°F wrapped in foil with a splash of apple cider or broth to keep it moist. Heating low and slow helps maintain that juicy texture without drying the meat out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cider Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe is truly one of those dishes that brings warmth and joy to the table. I love how the glaze balances sweet, tangy, and savory all at once—it’s a combination that never fails to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is straightforward enough to manage yet special enough to feel festive. Give it a try, and I’m sure you’ll be coming back to it season after season!

Print