Name: Maple-Butter Turkey
Prep time: 1440 min
Cook time: 100 min
Total time: 1540 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12-14 lb Turkey (neck and giblets removed).; 1 Tbsp Black peppercorns, coarsely ground.; ⅔ cup Kosher salt (or 6 Tbsp plus ½ tsp Morton salt).; 2 Tbsp Garlic powder.; 2 Tbsp Light brown sugar.; 1 Tbsp Vegetable oil or olive oil.; 1 cup Water.; ½ cup (1 stick) Unsalted butter.; ¼ cup Pure maple syrup.; 2 Tbsp Soy sauce or tamari.; 2 Tbsp Unseasoned rice vinegar or white wine vinegar.; 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce.; 2 sprigs Thyme.

This Maple-Butter-Glazed Turkey is a holiday showstopper, offering a blend of sweet maple syrup and savory butter for a juicy, flavorful main course. By dry brining the turkey with a savory blend of kosher salt, brown sugar, and seasonings, the meat remains moist and tender. The glaze, made from butter, maple syrup, soy sauce, and a touch of vinegar, creates a beautifully caramelized exterior as it bakes. Regular basting ensures maximum flavor absorption, while the turkey rests to preserve its juices. A perfect centerpiece for Thanksgiving or any special gathering.

Elevate your holiday table with this Maple-Butter-Glazed Turkey, a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors. The secret to its juiciness lies in the dry brine, which locks in moisture and deeply infuses flavor into the meat.

INGREDIENTS

Turkey: 12-14 lb, with neck and giblets removed, for a hearty main
Black Peppercorns: 1 Tbsp, coarsely ground for seasoning
Kosher Salt: ⅔ cup (or 6 Tbsp plus ½ tsp Morton salt), essential for dry brining
Garlic Powder: 2 Tbsp, for added flavor
Light Brown Sugar: 2 Tbsp, for a hint of sweetness
Vegetable or Olive Oil: 1 Tbsp, to coat
Water: 1 cup, added during roasting
Unsalted Butter: ½ cup (1 stick), for the glaze
Pure Maple Syrup: ¼ cup, for sweetness in the glaze
Soy Sauce or Tamari: 2 Tbsp, for a savory note
Unseasoned Rice Vinegar or White Wine Vinegar: 2 Tbsp, for balance
Worcestershire Sauce: 1 Tbsp, for depth of flavor
Thyme: 2 sprigs, for aromatic infusion

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: Prepare the turkey by removing the legs and wings, separating the breast, and optionally trimming the backbone. Pat all pieces dry.
Step 2:: Mix coarsely ground black peppercorns, kosher salt, garlic powder, and brown sugar. Coat all turkey pieces with this dry brine and place on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Chill for up to 1 day.
Step 3:: Prepare the glaze by combining butter, maple syrup, soy sauce, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until thickened.
Step 4:: Preheat oven to 425°F. Arrange brined turkey pieces on a wire rack over a baking sheet with 1 cup of water. Roast for 20-30 minutes.
Step 5:: Reduce oven temperature to 300°F and continue roasting for 50-70 minutes, brushing the turkey with the prepared glaze every 20 minutes.
Step 6:: Once roasted, allow the turkey to rest before carving and serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve hot, arranged on a platter with herbs for a festive presentation.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for longer preservation.
Reheat gently to maintain juiciness.

Helpful Notes

Adjust the amount of glaze based on desired sweetness and richness.
For a deeper flavor, add a few smashed garlic cloves during roasting.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Chef Brown recommends basting frequently to ensure a deeply caramelized and flavorful crust.
Chef Lee suggests using tamari for a gluten-free version of the glaze without sacrificing flavor.