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Maple Whisky Glazed Turkey

Maple Whisky Smoked Turkey

Jessica Musslewhite (@mushroomsandthyme)
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours
Servings 12
Calories 592 kcal

Ingredients
  

Brine:

  • 4 l water
  • ¾ cup Canadian whiskey
  • 1 cup kosher salt
  • ½ cup fresh thyme
  • 2 tbsp whole black peppercorns
  • 4 bay leaves

Turkey:

  • 1 whole turkey thawed if frozen, neck and giblets removed
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • Herb rub Combine: 1 tbsp freshly cracked black pepper, 2 tbsp dried oregano, 2 tbsp dried rosemary, 2 tbsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp dried thyme, 1 tbsp paprika
  • Wood chips or pellets competition blend, apple, pecan, or hickory recommended

Glaze:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • ¾ cup maple syrup
  • ¼ cup Canadian whiskey
  • 2 tbsp dijon mustard

Instructions
 

  • Make the brine. Bring the water to a boil, then add the Canadian whisky and salt. Stir until salt is dissolved. Add bay leaves, thyme, and peppercorns. Remove from the heat and let cool completely before using.
  • Place the turkey in a large non-reactive container and pour over enough brine to cover the turkey. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Note: If you prefer to skip the brining step, you will need to season the turkey with added salt as part of the rub (2 Tbsp).
  • Remove the turkey from the brine and rinse it thoroughly inside and out. Pat turkey dry; discard the brine.
  • For crispy skin, place the turkey uncovered on a rack and refrigerate for up to 24 hours; or for about an hour before cooking.
  • Season the outside of the turkey with olive oil and herb rub.
  • Prepare your glaze. In a small saucepan, melt butter. Add maple syrup, Canadian whisky and Dijon mustard. Heat the liquid until it begins to bubble. Remove from heat and let cool.
  • Prepare your smoker. Pre-heat to 275°F (135°C). Set up a drip pan underneath where the turkey will smoke, and fill it with a couple of cups of water.
  • Smoke the turkey at 275°F (135°C), basting periodically with glaze every 20-30 minutes. The turkey will be done when the internal temperature reaches at least 170°F (77°C) in the thickest part of the breast. Plan for approximately 30 minutes per pound.
  • Remove the turkey from the smoker and let it rest for 15 to 20 minutes before carving.

Nutrition

Calories: 592kcalCarbohydrates: 11gProtein: 58gFat: 34gSodium: 801mg
Keyword Whole Turkey
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