This Hot Honey Butter Roasted Turkey is the ultimate showstopper for your holiday table. It’s a stunning balance of heat, sweetness, and buttery richness that transforms a traditional roast turkey into something unforgettable. The golden, caramelized skin glistens with sticky hot honey glaze, while the meat underneath remains tender and juicy. Every bite delivers a beautiful blend of sweet warmth and savory depth that’s both comforting and exciting.
I made this version last Thanksgiving, and it completely outshone the classic recipe I’d been making for years. The combination of honey, butter, and a touch of chili heat created a flavor profile that had everyone reaching for seconds. Whether it’s for a festive holiday meal or a weekend gathering, this roasted turkey promises to impress both traditionalists and adventurous eaters alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This turkey isn’t just another roast—it’s a bold twist on a beloved classic. The buttery glaze infused with honey and chili delivers a sweet heat that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. It’s easy to prepare, perfectly moist, and bursting with flavor from skin to bone. The aroma that fills your kitchen while it roasts is enough to make everyone gather around the oven long before dinner is ready.
Print
Hot Honey Butter Roasted Turkey – A Sweet, Spicy, and Perfectly Juicy Feast
- Total Time: 3 hrs 50 mins
- Yield: 10–12 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A mouthwatering roasted turkey glazed with a sweet and spicy hot honey butter — juicy on the inside, golden and caramelized on the outside. Perfect for holidays or special gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 whole turkey (12–14 lbs), thawed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup hot honey (or honey mixed with 1–2 tsp hot sauce)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth (for roasting pan)
- 1 lemon, halved
- 1 onion, quartered
- 3 sprigs rosemary (for cavity)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Pat the turkey dry with paper towels and remove giblets from the cavity.
- In a bowl, mix softened butter, hot honey, garlic, rosemary, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Gently loosen the skin over the turkey breast and thighs. Spread half of the honey butter mixture under the skin and rub the remaining mixture all over the outside of the bird.
- Stuff the cavity with lemon halves, onion, and rosemary sprigs. Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan and pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan.
- Roast the turkey uncovered for about 3 to 3½ hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Baste every 45 minutes with pan juices.
- For extra caramelization, brush the turkey with additional hot honey butter during the last 20 minutes of roasting.
- Remove from oven and rest for 20–30 minutes before carving.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less hot sauce to the honey butter.
- If the turkey begins to brown too quickly, tent loosely with foil.
- Save the pan drippings to make a spicy-sweet gravy.
- This recipe works beautifully with chicken for smaller servings.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 3 hrs 30 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Whole turkey – Choose a fresh or thawed turkey between 10 and 14 pounds for even roasting. Pat it completely dry to ensure crisp, golden skin.
Unsalted butter – The foundation of the glaze, butter adds richness and helps the honey and spices adhere beautifully to the turkey.
Hot honey – This is the flavor hero of the dish. A blend of sweet honey and chili gives the turkey its signature glaze. You can use store-bought hot honey or make your own by infusing regular honey with red pepper flakes.
Garlic – Fresh minced garlic infuses the butter with deep, aromatic flavor that balances the sweetness of the honey.
Smoked paprika – Adds a gentle smokiness and vibrant color that enhances the roasted exterior.
Cayenne pepper – Brings a mild but noticeable kick, perfectly complementing the sweetness of the honey.
Fresh thyme and rosemary – These herbs infuse the turkey with earthy, aromatic undertones that elevate every bite.
Lemon juice – A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens the buttery glaze, keeping it from becoming too heavy.
Salt and black pepper – Essential seasonings that enhance all the rich and spicy flavors.
Chicken or turkey broth – Keeps the bird moist while roasting and forms the base for flavorful pan drippings or gravy.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Prepare your turkey by removing the giblets, patting it dry inside and out, and placing it on a roasting rack set in a large roasting pan.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the hot honey, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, lemon juice, and chopped thyme and rosemary. Mix until smooth and aromatic.
Carefully loosen the turkey’s skin by sliding your fingers between the skin and the meat, particularly over the breasts. Brush some of the hot honey butter mixture underneath the skin and rub the rest all over the turkey’s surface. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Pour a cup of broth into the bottom of the roasting pan to keep the turkey moist during cooking. Roast the turkey uncovered, basting every 45 minutes with the pan juices and additional hot honey butter.
Roast until the thickest part of the breast reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear, about 3 to 3½ hours for a 12-pound turkey. If the skin browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil.
Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven, cover loosely with foil, and rest for 20–30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender, flavorful meat.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
- Large roasting pan with rack
- Basting brush
- Meat thermometer
- Saucepan
- Carving knife and fork
- Aluminum foil
- Measuring spoons and cups
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 10–12 people.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 3–3½ hours
Resting time: 30 minutes
Total time: Approximately 4½ hours
Storage/reheating
Store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place slices in a baking dish with a splash of broth, cover with foil, and warm at 325°F (165°C) for about 20 minutes. This keeps the meat juicy and flavorful. The hot honey glaze can be reheated separately and brushed on just before serving to refresh the flavor.
Variations and Customizations
Maple Hot Honey Twist – Substitute part of the honey with maple syrup for a richer, deeper sweetness.
Garlic Herb Butter Base – Add extra garlic and herbs for a more traditional flavor that balances the heat.
Citrus Glaze – Mix in orange or lime zest to the glaze for a bright, tangy twist.
Smoky BBQ Version – Add a spoonful of your favorite BBQ sauce to the butter mixture for a smoky-sweet glaze.
Spicy Upgrade – Use chili oil or extra cayenne pepper if you prefer a bolder, spicier finish.
Honey Bourbon Glaze – Stir a tablespoon of bourbon into the butter mixture for a subtle caramel depth.
Brown Butter Honey Glaze – Brown the butter before mixing for a nutty aroma and rich flavor.
Herb Crust Finish – Sprinkle a mix of dried thyme, parsley, and smoked salt over the turkey for a fragrant crust.
Air Fryer Turkey Breast – For smaller gatherings, use turkey breast and air-fry at 350°F (175°C) for 45–50 minutes, basting halfway.
Sweet and Tangy Drizzle – Whisk together hot honey and apple cider vinegar for an easy finishing glaze just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use this glaze on turkey breast or thighs instead of a whole turkey?
Yes, it works beautifully on smaller cuts—just reduce cooking time accordingly.
How spicy is this recipe?
The heat is mild and well balanced by the honey, but you can adjust the cayenne or honey ratio to taste.
Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely. Make it up to 3 days in advance and store in the fridge. Warm before brushing onto the turkey.
How do I keep the turkey moist?
Baste regularly and use broth in the roasting pan. Resting after roasting is also essential.
What can I do with the pan drippings?
They make an incredible sweet-spicy gravy when combined with broth and a touch of flour or cornstarch.
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce added salt slightly to balance the flavors.
How do I make my own hot honey?
Simmer honey with red pepper flakes for a few minutes, then cool before using.
Can I roast this turkey in a convection oven?
Yes—reduce the temperature by 25°F and check for doneness a bit earlier.
How do I prevent the skin from burning?
Cover loosely with foil once it reaches the desired color but before the turkey is fully cooked.
What side dishes pair best with this turkey?
Roasted sweet potatoes, garlic mashed potatoes, and roasted Brussels sprouts complement it beautifully.
Conclusion
This Hot Honey Butter Roasted Turkey brings a fresh, exciting twist to a classic roast. The tender, juicy meat paired with that glistening spicy-sweet glaze makes it a true centerpiece dish. It’s simple to prepare yet tastes gourmet—perfect for holidays, celebrations, or any time you want to elevate your table with a meal that’s both comforting and unforgettable.
Hungry for more? Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!