Smoked Turkey Feast with Maple Bourbon Glaze & Southern BBQ Sides
- Aaron Craddock
- Mar 31
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 1
Introduction
Easter is a time for gathering, sharing, and creating unforgettable moments around the table. This year, take your holiday dinner to the next level with a backyard BBQ twist on tradition. Our Smoked Turkey Feast combines bold Craddyshack flavor with gourmet comfort - featuring juicy smoked brined turkey glazed with maple bourbon, smoky mashed potatoes with brown butter truffle gravy, beer-soaked corn topped with chili lime mayo and feta, and smoked bacon-wrapped carrots. Whether you're cooking for family, friends, or a crowd - this is how you do Easter, Craddyshack-style.
Ingredients:
Protein
- 1 whole thawed turkey (giblets removed)
- Thick-cut bacon (for carrots)
Produce
Dairy
Dry Spices & Pantry
Liquids & Condiments
Instructions
Brine the Turkey
- Bring 4 cups water to a boil. Stir in kosher salt and sugar until dissolved.
- Add citrus, onion, garlic, bay leaves, and thyme. Simmer 30 minutes.
- Cool with remaining water in a 5-gallon container.
Submerge turkey fully. Brine in the fridge for 1 hour per pound (max 24 hours).
- Rinse and pat dry before seasoning.
Craddyshack Poultry Rub + Butter Baste
- Combine rub: brown sugar, smoked paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic & onion powder, rosemary, thyme, sage, - Rub turkey generously. Craddyshack Flock & Roll rub is the perfect choice for a ready made spice mix.
- Smoke at 250-275°F, basting with melted butter (2 cups total) every hour.
- Cook until internal temp hits 165°F (breast), 175°F (thigh).
- Rest the turkey for a minimum of twenty minutes before slicing to allow the muscles to relax and guarantee a juicy bird.
Maple Bourbon Glaze
- Combine maple syrup, Maple Crown Royal, ketchup, rub, and vinegar.
- Simmer until reduced by half (20-30 mins).
- Brush over turkey during last hour of smoke and once more before serving.
Beer-Glazed Corn with Chili Lime Mayo
- Soak shucked corn in 2 cans of lager beer (sealed bag, 2 hours).
- Grill/smoke until tender and charred.
- Mix mayo, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, and lime zest. Chill.
- Slather corn and sprinkle with crumbled feta.
Brown Butter Truffle Gravy
- Brown 30g butter in a pan over low heat being careful not to burn it. Add truffle oil.
- Whisk in flour slowly to form a roux.
- Gradually add broth, soy sauce, seasoning, and pepper.
- Simmer until thick and velvety.
Smoked Bacon-Wrapped Carrots
- Peel & parboil carrots until just tender.
- Wrap in thick-cut bacon and smoke at 275°F until bacon is crisp.
- Optional: Finish with maple syrup or hot honey.
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