Maple-Glazed Roast Turkey with Gravy

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Maple-Glazed Roast Turkey with Gravy.

1. Step 1

   Start by bringing your apple cider and maple syrup to a lively boil in a heavy saucepan over medium-high heat.

2. Step 2

   Let this delightful mixture simmer down until it reduces to about half a cup, which should take around 20 minutes.

3. Step 3

   Once it’s beautifully thickened, take it off the heat and stir in half of your chopped thyme and marjoram, along with the bright zest of a lemon.

4. Step 4

   Whisk in some butter until it melts into the syrup, then season it with a pinch of salt and pepper.

5. Step 5

   This syrup can be made ahead of time—just cover it and pop it in the fridge until it’s cold, and it will keep for up to two days.

6. Step 6

   Next, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and adjust the oven rack to the lowest third.

7. Step 7

   While that’s heating up, give your turkey a good rinse and pat it dry.

8. Step 8

   Place it in a large roasting pan, and gently slide your hand under the skin of the breast to loosen it.

9. Step 9

   This is where the magic happens—rub half a cup of your maple butter mixture under the skin for a burst of flavor.

10. Step 10

    If you’re planning to stuff the turkey, now’s the time to do it.

11. Step 11

    Then, take the remaining quarter cup of maple butter and rub it all over the outside of the turkey.

12. Step 12

    To keep everything snug, use kitchen string to tie the legs together loosely.

13. Step 13

    Surround your turkey with a colorful medley of chopped onion, celery, and carrots in the roasting pan.

14. Step 14

    If you like, you can add the neck and giblets to the mix for extra flavor.

15. Step 15

    Sprinkle the rest of the thyme and marjoram over the veggies, and then pour in some chicken stock to keep everything moist and delicious.

16. Step 16

    Now it’s time to roast! Place the turkey in your preheated oven and let it roast for 30 minutes.

17. Step 17

    After that, lower the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and loosely cover the turkey with foil.

18. Step 18

    Continue roasting for about 3 to 4 hours if it’s unstuffed, or 4 to 5 hours if it’s stuffed.

19. Step 19

    You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature of the thigh reaches 180°F (80°C) and the stuffing hits 165°F (75°C).

20. Step 20

    Once it’s perfectly cooked, transfer the turkey to a platter and cover it with foil.

21. Step 21

    Let it rest for about 25 minutes before carving and removing the stuffing—this helps keep it juicy! While the turkey is resting, let’s whip up some gravy.

22. Step 22

    Strain the pan juices into a measuring cup and skim off any excess fat.

23. Step 23

    Add enough chicken stock to make a total of 3 cups of liquid.

24. Step 24

    Pour this into a heavy saucepan and bring it to a boil.

25. Step 25

    In a small bowl, mix the reserved maple butter mixture with some flour to create a smooth paste, then whisk it into the boiling broth.

26. Step 26

    Stir in thyme, a bay leaf, and if you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of apple brandy.

27. Step 27

    Let the gravy boil until it thickens slightly, then season it with salt and pepper to taste.

28. Step 28

    And there you have it—a beautifully roasted turkey with a rich, flavorful gravy that’s sure to impress your guests! Enjoy every delicious bite!.