The star of many Thanksgiving feasts is a juicy, golden brown turkey roasted to crispy-skinned perfection. While a simple roast turkey is delicious, taking it to the next level with a sweet and savory maple butter glaze elevates this holiday centerpiece to new heights. When you want your Thanksgiving turkey to really wow your guests, a maple butter glazed turkey recipe is the way to go.

Why Maple Butter Glazed Turkey?

A maple butter glazed turkey starts with a classic roast turkey as the base. The turkey is coated with an irresistible maple flavored butter before roasting which helps keep the meat incredibly moist and juicy. As the turkey roasts, the butter melts and mingles with the natural turkey juices, self-basting the bird from the inside out.

The melted maple butter also forms a tantalizing glaze on the outside of the turkey, leading to the most insanely delicious golden brown and lacquered skin you can imagine. Every bite is infused with sweet, buttery maple flavor that perfectly complements the savory turkey meat. It takes the enjoyable experience of eating roast turkey at Thanksgiving to a whole new level!

Tips for Maple Butter Glazed Turkey Success

Choose the Right Turkey

When selecting your turkey, allow about 1 pound of turkey per person. A 12-14 lb turkey will feed 10-12 guests comfortably. Opt for a high quality fresh or fully thawed turkey. Carefully remove the neck and giblets from the cavity before seasoning.

Prepare the Turkey

For even cooking, remove the backbone and flatten the breast. Separate the drumsticks and lay the turkey pieces skin side up on a roasting rack. This allows air flow all around the turkey for optimal crisping.

Make the Maple Butter

Whisk together room temperature butter, pure maple syrup, and herbs Soften the butter if needed but avoid fully melting it

Brine and Season

Dry brining with salt sugar, garlic powder and pepper deeply seasons the meat and helps it retain moisture. Let brine 1 hour or overnight.

Roast Low and Slow

Roast at 300°F until the breast is 150°F and thighs are 170°F Lower heat prevents overcooking Baste with maple butter every 30 minutes for insane deliciousness!

Rest and Carve

Let the turkey rest at least 20 minutes before carving for juicy results. Slice the breast meat across the grain and separate the legs and wings.

Avoid Common Maple Glazed Turkey Mistakes

Maple glazed turkey looks impressive but is surprisingly easy when you avoid these pitfalls:

• Skipping the thermometer – use one for perfect doneness!

• Rushing the thawing process – defrost in the fridge for 4+ days

• Cold, hard butter – soften to spreadable consistency

• Melted butter – keep it cool to maintain texture

• Overbrowning the skin – tent with foil to control browning

• Stuffing the cavity – bake stuffing separately

• Forgetting to rest – waiting 20 minutes lets juices redistribute

Master the Maple Glaze

The glaze is simple to whip up. Simmer maple syrup, brown sugar, butter, and spices like cinnamon until thickened. Brush over the turkey every 30 minutes while roasting. The glaze should be glossy and cling nicely to the turkey skin. Its amber color and sweet maple flavor make for an incredible presentation.

Roast to Perfection

Follow these steps to roast your maple glazed turkey flawlessly:

1. Dry brine turkey pieces overnight
2. Arrange on rack skin up in roasting pan
3. Roast 300°F until 150°F/170°F
4. Brush glaze every 30 minutes
5. Rest 20 minutes before slicing thinly

Serve your masterpiece turkey with classic Thanksgiving sides like fluffy mashed potatoes, savory stuffing, and tangy cranberry sauce. The balanced flavors pair perfectly with the turkey.

Store and Reheat Leftovers

Let leftovers cool completely before refrigerating in shallow airtight containers. Reheat gently in a 325°F oven until warmed through, about 20 minutes covered in foil. Freeze extras up to 3 months.

Make Memories with Maple Butter Turkey

A maple butter glazed turkey is impressive yet easy enough for beginners. The sweet maple flavor and crispy glazed skin will wow your Thanksgiving guests. Follow the tips above for a showstopping bird worth remembering. Most importantly, gather with loved ones and make lasting memories over this very special holiday feast.