Apple Cider Brine Recipe

Unlock the secret to the most succulent, flavorful turkey breast this holiday season! Our Apple Cider Brine recipe guarantees moist, tender meat that will impress your guests. This easy-to-follow brine recipe infuses your turkey with the perfect balance of sweet and tart apple cider flavor, creating a truly unforgettable centerpiece for your Thanksgiving or Christmas feast.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 1460 mins
Calories 188.6 kcal
Protein 1g
Rating 4.9 (15 Reviews)
Apple Cider Brine 22

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Apple Cider Brine

  • Kosher Salt
  • Sugar
  • Fresh Ginger
  • 4 bay leaves
  • Cloves
  • Black Peppercorns
  • Allspice Berries
  • Unsweetened Apple Cider
  • Turkey
  • Oranges
  • Oven Cooking Bags

How to Make Apple Cider Brine

  1. In a large stockpot or food-grade bucket, combine apple cider, water, salt, brown sugar, bay leaves, peppercorns, and thyme.
  2. Stir until the salt and sugar are completely dissolved.
  3. Submerge the turkey completely in the brine. Ensure the turkey is fully immersed; you may need to weigh it down with a plate or heavy object.
  4. Cover the container and refrigerate for at least 12 hours, or up to 24 hours. The longer it brines, the more flavorful the turkey will be!
  5. Remove the turkey from the brine and discard the brine.
  6. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels before roasting according to your preferred method. This helps the skin crisp up nicely.
  7. Roast the turkey according to your preferred recipe, checking for doneness with a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

902 g

Sugar

181g

Fat

0g

Carbs

16g