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Main Course • American

Apple Cider Brined Turkey Recipe

Apple Cider Brined Turkey will have subtle sweet apple flavor, robust herbs and hints of garlic laced in each juicy bite!

4.8 from 173 votes
30 mins
Total Time
16
Servings
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Apple Cider Brined Turkey

How to Make the Best Apple Cider Brined Turkey

Nothing says Thanksgiving quite like a perfectly brined turkey! This apple cider brined turkey combines the warmth of traditional herbs with the subtle sweetness of fresh apple cider, resulting in incredibly juicy, flavorful meat that will have your guests asking for seconds.

The Magic of Brining

Brining is the secret to a turkey that stays moist and tender throughout cooking. By soaking the bird in a flavored salt solution for 24-48 hours, you’re allowing the brine to penetrate deep into the meat, creating that coveted juiciness and enhancing every bite with herbaceous and fruity notes. This recipe’s combination of rosemary, sage, thyme, and apple cider creates a truly memorable holiday centerpiece.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to this recipe’s success is the balance of flavors and the proper brining time. Starting with toasted herbs releases their essential oils, creating a more robust brine. The apple cider adds a subtle sweetness and acidity that complements the savory herbs beautifully. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or perfecting your technique for the big day, this brined turkey will deliver outstanding results every time.

Apple Cider Brined Turkey

Apple Cider Brined Turkey

Apple Cider Brined Turkey will have subtle sweet apple flavor, robust herbs and hints of garlic laced in each juicy bite!

4.8 from 173 votes
CourseMain Course
CuisineAmerican
Keywordapple cider brine, how to brine a turkey, thanksgiving turkey
Prep Time30 mins
Cook Time mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings16 servings
Calories570kcal
AuthorChristina Hill
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Ingredients

Brine

Turkey

Instructions

Prepare

  1. Remove the turkey from its packaging and remove the giblets and neck from the cavity. Pat the skin dry and set aside.

Make Brine

  1. In a large stock pot, add salt, herbs, bay leaves and peppercorns. Toast over medium-high heat for 1 to 2 minutes just until fragrant.
  2. Carefully add the warm water. Water may steam and bubble when first added to the hot pan.
  3. Stir continuously until salt dissolves. Remove from heat immediately to allow to cool.
  4. Add apple cider, onion, celery, and garlic. Let cool for 15 minutes.

Brine Turkey

  1. Set brining bag in a large roasting pan with top open wide (or inside a brining bucket). Add the turkey breast side down and cover with the cooled brining liquid. Add the remaining cold water. Massage the liquid until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
  2. Let sit for 24 to 48 hours in the brine.

Notes

  • Nutrition per serving: 570 calories, 15g carbs, 79g protein, 21g fat, 12g sugar, 5737mg sodium
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