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Cozy Brown Sugar Bourbon Glazed Turkey Breast

brown sugar bourbon glazed turkey breast - featured image

A simple yet impressive turkey breast recipe with a sweet and savory brown sugar bourbon glaze that caramelizes into a golden crust, perfect for fall dinners and holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (3-4 pound) boneless, skin-on turkey breast
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup bourbon
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Take the turkey breast out of the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking to let it come to room temperature. Pat it completely dry with paper towels.
  2. In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Rub the butter all over the turkey breast, then sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the entire surface.
  3. Combine the brown sugar, bourbon, butter, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and cayenne (if using) in a small saucepan. Heat over medium-low, stirring constantly, until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves—about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the turkey breast skin-side up on a wire rack set inside your roasting pan or baking dish.
  5. Roast the turkey breast uncovered for 30 minutes.
  6. Brush a generous layer of the glaze all over the turkey breast. Return to the oven and roast for 15 minutes. Glaze again, then roast another 15 minutes. Repeat one more time—glaze and roast for the final 10-20 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 155°F (68°C).
  7. Remove the turkey from the oven and tent loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 15 minutes.
  8. Carve against the grain into thick slices and serve.

Notes

Don’t skip the resting time—it allows juices to redistribute. Glaze in layers to prevent burning. Use a meat thermometer for best results; pull at 155°F and let carryover cooking finish. If skin browns too quickly, tent with foil.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey breast, brown sugar bourbon glaze, fall recipe, holiday turkey, easy turkey recipe