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Applewood Smoked Turkey Melt with Cranberry Whiskey Glaze

Applewood Smoked Turkey Melt with Cranberry Whiskey Glaze


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  • Author: Chef Crenn
  • Total Time: 30
  • Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x

Description

The Applewood Smoked Turkey Melt with Cranberry Whiskey Glaze is a gourmet holiday sandwich featuring rich applewood-smoked turkey, homemade cranberry whiskey glaze, and melted cheddar cheese on toasted whole wheat bread. Crafted for discerning home chefs seeking restaurant-quality results for holiday entertaining.


Ingredients

Scale

8 slices applewood smoked turkey breast

4 slices sharp cheddar cheese

8 slices artisan whole wheat bread

1/2 cup fresh cranberries

2 tablespoons whiskey (bourbon recommended)

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon orange zest

2 tablespoons butter (for grilling)

Fresh rosemary for garnish (optional)


Instructions

1. Prepare the cranberry whiskey glaze: In a medium saucepan, combine fresh cranberries, whiskey, brown sugar, and orange zest. Simmer over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cranberries burst and mixture thickens to a glaze consistency.

2. Prepare your workspace: Lay out 4 slices of whole wheat bread. On each slice, layer 2 slices of applewood smoked turkey.

3. Add the glaze: Spoon 2 tablespoons of the cranberry whiskey glaze over the turkey on each sandwich, spreading evenly.

4. Add cheese and close: Place 1 slice of sharp cheddar cheese on each sandwich. Top with remaining bread slices to close sandwiches.

5. Grill the melts: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1/2 tablespoon butter per sandwich. Place sandwiches in skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently with spatula, until bread is golden brown and cheese is fully melted.

6. Serve immediately: Slice each melt diagonally and serve hot. Garnish with fresh rosemary and extra cranberry glaze on the side if desired.

Notes

Chef’s Tips: For extra smoky flavor, briefly warm the turkey slices in the skillet before assembling sandwiches.

Make-Ahead: The cranberry whiskey glaze can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Bread Options: Sourdough or ciabatta work beautifully as substitutes for whole wheat bread.

Cheese Variations: Try a blend of cheddar and gouda for extra creaminess, or use gruyere for a more sophisticated flavor.

 

PIN THIS RECIPE: Save to your Pinterest boards for your holiday entertaining collection!

 

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  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 15
  • Category: Sandwiches
  • Method: Grilling, Simmering
  • Cuisine: American, Holiday

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 680mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg