If you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece that brings smoky warmth and rich, comforting flavors to your table, this Applewood Smoked Turkey Breast with Cider Bourbon Gravy Recipe will absolutely steal the spotlight. The tender turkey breast infused with subtle applewood smoke pairs perfectly with a silky, slightly sweet gravy made from tangy apple cider and smooth bourbon, creating a dish that’s both hearty and heartwarming. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply craving something special, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds and feeling cozy all at once.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Applewood Smoked Turkey Breast with Cider Bourbon Gravy Recipe lies in its straightforward but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each element plays a vital role in layering classic smoky richness, herbal brightness, and a luscious finish with the gravy that ties everything together.
- Turkey breast (4–5 lb), bone-in, skin-on: The star of the dish, offering juicy, tender meat beneath crisp skin.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps the spices adhere and keeps the skin wonderfully crisp during smoking.
- Kosher salt (2 teaspoons): Enhances all the flavors and seasons the meat deeply.
- Black pepper (1 teaspoon): Adds just the right amount of earthy heat.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Boosts the smoky notes and adds a beautiful color.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Gives a mellow savory depth to the rub.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Balances the garlic with a subtle sweetness.
- Fresh thyme and rosemary (1 tablespoon each, chopped): Fresh herbs bring brightness and an aromatic burst.
- Applewood chips: Essential for that signature smoky flavor that defines this turkey breast.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Forms the rich base for the velvety gravy.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Creates the perfect thickening agent for the gravy.
- Apple cider (1 cup): Adds a sweet, tangy complexity that contrasts beautifully with the smoky turkey.
- Turkey drippings or chicken broth (½ cup): Infuses the gravy with deep savory goodness.
- Bourbon (¼ cup): Brings warmth, depth, and a hint of spirited character.
- Dijon mustard (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle tang and sharpness to brighten the gravy.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, rounding out the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Applewood Smoked Turkey Breast with Cider Bourbon Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Smoker and Turkey
Begin by preheating your smoker to a gentle 225°F, loading it with applewood chips that will impart that incredible smoke aroma we all crave. Pat the turkey breast dry using paper towels—this step is crucial to getting beautiful browning and crisp skin. Next, mix olive oil, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary into a fragrant paste. Rub this seasoning lovingly over the entire turkey breast, working it under the skin where possible to maximize flavor infusion.
Step 2: Smoke the Turkey
Place the seasoned turkey breast on the smoker grates and insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part to monitor doneness accurately. Let the turkey slow-smoke for about 3 to 4 hours. Patience is key here; the low heat and smoke slowly work their magic until your turkey hits an internal temperature of 160°F. Once done, wrap it loosely in foil and allow it to rest for 15 to 20 minutes—during this time, the temperature will climb to a perfect 165°F, and the juices will redistribute for ultimate juiciness.
Step 3: Whip Up the Cider Bourbon Gravy
While the turkey rests, get started on that luscious gravy. Melt unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in all-purpose flour and cook until golden, about 1 to 2 minutes. Slowly add apple cider, turkey drippings (or broth if you don’t have drippings), and bourbon, whisking continuously to keep things smooth. Stir in Dijon mustard and let the mixture simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until it thickens up beautifully. Taste, then season with salt and pepper as needed. This gravy is the crowning glory, marrying the smoky richness of the turkey with a sweet, spirited sauce you’ll want to drizzle generously.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
Slice the rested turkey breast against the grain into thick, juicy pieces. Generously ladle the warm cider bourbon gravy over the slices and serve immediately to showcase the full harmony of flavors and textures.
How to Serve Applewood Smoked Turkey Breast with Cider Bourbon Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs such as thyme or rosemary adds a pop of color and a fresh aroma that complements the savory notes beautifully. Consider a few thin apple slices on the side or inside the gravy for an extra autumnal touch that ties back to the applewood smoke.
Side Dishes
This Applewood Smoked Turkey Breast with Cider Bourbon Gravy Recipe pairs wonderfully with roasted garlic mashed potatoes, which absorb every drop of that rich gravy. Add some sautéed green beans with almonds or roasted root vegetables for a hearty, colorful plate that feels like a warm hug.
Creative Ways to Present
For a rustic, inviting look, serve the turkey sliced on a large wooden board surrounded by bowls of gravy and sides, letting guests serve themselves family-style. Alternatively, plate it elegantly with a drizzle of gravy artfully swooshed across the plate, smashed potatoes on the side, and a sprig of fresh herbs for a restaurant-quality touch at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your feast, store any leftover smoked turkey breast and gravy separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Properly stored, the turkey will stay flavorful and tender for up to 4 days, while the gravy holds its rich consistency for about 3 days.
Freezing
If you want to keep this deliciousness longer, wrap turkey slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. The turkey freezes well for up to 2 months. Freeze the gravy separately in a smaller airtight container or freezer bag to maintain its texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm turkey slices in a low oven at 275°F wrapped in foil to keep moisture. Reheat the gravy slowly on the stovetop over low heat, whisking occasionally, adding a splash of broth or cider if needed to loosen it up. This ensures every bite is just as delightful as the first.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of wood chips if I don’t have applewood?
Absolutely! While applewood is fantastic for its sweet, fruity smoke, other woods like cherry or hickory also work well. Just remember cherry gives a milder fruitiness and hickory is stronger and more robust, so adjust your smoking time accordingly.
Is boneless turkey breast an option for this recipe?
While bone-in turkey breast provides extra flavor and moisture, you can use boneless breasts if preferred. Just be mindful that boneless meat may cook faster, so start checking the internal temperature earlier to avoid drying out.
What if I don’t have a smoker? Can I still make Applewood Smoked Turkey Breast with Cider Bourbon Gravy Recipe?
Definitely! You can replicate some smoky flavor by roasting the turkey breast in a 325°F oven and adding a few drops of liquid smoke to the seasoning mix. While it won’t have the same depth as smoking, it’s a wonderful alternative for indoors cooking.
Is the gravy gluten-free?
The base gravy uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten, but you can easily swap it for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to keep your gravy safe for gluten-free diets without sacrificing thickening power or flavor.
Can I prepare the gravy in advance?
Yes! The cider bourbon gravy can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. Reheat gently on the stovetop, whisking frequently, and add a splash of broth or cider to bring it back to the perfect pouring consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Applewood Smoked Turkey Breast with Cider Bourbon Gravy Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll want to make again and again, not just for special occasions but whenever you want to impress with something truly soulful and delicious. The smoky, tender turkey paired with that rich, slightly sweet gravy creates a perfect harmony of flavors you and your loved ones will fall in love with. Give it a try and watch it become an instant classic on your table!
