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Maple Bourbon Glazed Turkey Breast for Two: Easy, Juicy, and Perfect

maple bourbon glazed turkey breast for two - featured image
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A perfectly sized turkey breast for two, brined for juiciness and glazed with a sweet, smoky maple bourbon glaze. This recipe is designed for a cozy, impressive dinner without the stress of a whole turkey.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups water
  • 1/4 cup kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
  • 2 cups ice water
  • 1 bone-in, skin-on turkey breast (about 2.5 to 3 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons bourbon
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions

  1. Brine the turkey: In a large pot, combine 4 cups water, kosher salt, brown sugar, bay leaves, and black peppercorns. Bring to a simmer, stirring until salt and sugar dissolve. Remove from heat and add 2 cups ice water to cool. Place turkey breast in a bowl or zip-top bag, pour brine over it, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove turkey from brine, pat dry with paper towels, and let sit at room temperature for 20 minutes.
  3. Gently loosen turkey skin and rub softened butter under the skin. Season the outside generously with salt and pepper.
  4. Place turkey on a wire rack in a roasting pan. Roast for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until internal temperature reaches 155°F (68°C) at the thickest part.
  5. While turkey roasts, make the glaze: In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, bourbon, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cayenne (if using), and minced garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
  6. When turkey reaches 155°F, remove from oven and brush glaze generously over the skin. Return to oven and roast for another 10-15 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and glaze is sticky and caramelized.
  7. Remove turkey from oven and let rest on a cutting board for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the top before serving.

Notes

Don’t skip the brine; it ensures juicy meat. Pat the turkey dry for crispy skin. Use a thermometer for perfect doneness. Watch the glaze closely to prevent burning. Let the turkey rest before slicing.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey breast, maple bourbon, glazed turkey, small turkey, Thanksgiving for two, easy turkey recipe

Find it online: https://perkypan.com/maple-bourbon-glazed-turkey-breast-for-two-easy-juicy-and-perfect/