Ah, glazed ham—it’s practically the star of every holiday table! I can’t tell you how many memories I’ve made around a beautifully glazed ham, with its shiny, caramelized surface glistening in the warm glow of family gathering. This recipe is a cherished tradition in my home, and the combination of sweet brown sugar, honey, and a hint of tangy Dijon mustard creates a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds. Trust me, when you take that first bite, you’ll savor the perfect balance of sweet and savory, and the aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly waiting for dinner. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy Sunday dinner, this glazed ham is sure to impress and create lasting memories with every slice.
Ingredients List
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 fully cooked ham (5-7 pounds)
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
How to Prepare Glazed Ham
Preheat and Prepare
First things first—let’s get that oven preheating to 325°F (165°C). This is the perfect temperature for slowly warming our beautiful ham and allowing those flavors to meld together. While that’s heating up, take a moment to score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This not only looks pretty but also helps the glaze seep into every nook and cranny, making each bite even more delicious!
Create the Glaze
Now for the fun part! In a medium bowl, mix together 1 cup of packed brown sugar, 1/2 cup of honey, 1/4 cup of Dijon mustard, 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of ground cloves. You want a smooth, sticky glaze that will beautifully coat the ham. If it feels a bit thick, don’t be shy—add a splash more vinegar or honey to get the consistency just right. You want it to glide on easily but not be too runny!
Apply the Glaze
Grab a brush (or even a spoon if that’s what you’ve got) and gently brush that luscious glaze all over the surface of the ham. Make sure to get into all those scored lines! The more glaze you can apply, the better—trust me, you want every bite to have that sweet and savory flavor. If you have any leftover glaze, save it for later to baste while baking!
Baking Instructions
Now, place your beautifully glazed ham in a roasting pan and cover it loosely with foil. This will help keep it moist while it bakes. Pop it into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Remember to baste the ham with that leftover glaze every 30 minutes. This step is crucial! It not only adds flavor but also helps develop that shiny, caramelized crust we all love. In the last 30 minutes, remove the foil to let the glaze get all bubbly and caramelized—yum!
Resting and Slicing
Once your ham is cooked to perfection, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. This is an important step! Allowing the ham to rest helps the juices redistribute throughout, keeping it moist and flavorful. Trust me, the wait is worth it! After that, slice it up, and get ready to enjoy the glorious results of your hard work!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s chat about the nutritional side of this delicious glazed ham! It’s always good to know what you’re serving, especially when it’s a centerpiece dish like this one. Here’s a rough estimate of the typical nutritional values per serving (about 3 ounces):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sugar: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 20g
This information is based on the ingredients used in this recipe, so keep in mind that actual values may vary slightly depending on the specific ham you choose and any additional sides you serve alongside it. But hey, it’s a holiday treat—enjoy every flavorful bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare—just a few easy steps and you’re on your way to a show-stopping dish!
- Sweet and savory flavor that will leave everyone raving about your cooking skills.
- Perfect for holiday gatherings; it’s a classic centerpiece that brings everyone together.
- Gluten-free option, making it suitable for all your guests’ dietary needs.
- Feeds a crowd, so you can enjoy leftovers or share the love with family and friends!
Tips for Success
Alright, friends, let’s make sure your glazed ham is nothing short of spectacular! Here are my top tips to help you nail this recipe every single time.
- Choose the Right Ham: Go for a fully cooked ham that’s labeled as “bone-in” for the best flavor and moisture. It’s worth it! The bone adds richness, and you’ll be amazed at how it enhances the overall taste.
- Score it Right: Don’t rush the scoring process. Take your time to create those diamond patterns. This isn’t just for looks; it allows the glaze to penetrate deeper into the meat, making every bite a flavor explosion!
- Adjust the Glaze to Your Taste: Feel free to tweak the glaze! If you like it sweeter, add a touch more honey or brown sugar. Want a bit of a kick? A pinch of cayenne pepper can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
- Baste Like a Pro: When you’re basting, don’t just drizzle; really coat it! Use a brush to get the glaze into those scored lines. This is where that caramelization happens, so don’t hold back!
- Check for Doneness: If you’re unsure about cooking time, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach about 140°F (60°C). This way, you won’t overcook it, and it’ll stay juicy and tender.
- Let It Rest: Seriously, don’t skip the resting period! This step is crucial for keeping the ham juicy. Letting it sit for 15 minutes before slicing allows the juices to redistribute. You’ll thank me later!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a glazed ham that’ll have your family and friends singing your praises. Happy cooking!
Variations
Now that you’ve mastered the classic glazed ham, let’s have some fun with variations! There are so many delicious ways to change up the glaze and add your own twist. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- Maple Glaze: Swap out the honey for pure maple syrup for a rich, earthy sweetness. It pairs beautifully with the salty ham and adds a unique flavor that’s simply irresistible!
- Spicy Pineapple: Add crushed pineapple and a dash of hot sauce to your glaze for a tropical flair. The sweetness of the pineapple combined with the heat will create a delightful contrast that your taste buds will adore!
- Herb-Infused Glaze: Stir in some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into your glaze for an aromatic touch. This adds a lovely depth of flavor, making your ham feel extra gourmet!
- Brown Sugar and Bourbon: For a sophisticated twist, incorporate a splash of bourbon into your glaze. The caramel notes from the bourbon blend perfectly with the brown sugar, creating a deep, rich flavor that will wow your guests.
- Apple Cider Glaze: Replace the apple cider vinegar with fresh apple cider for a sweet and tangy kick. It’s a wonderful way to enhance the fall flavors and smells that go hand in hand with holiday gatherings!
- Mustard and Ginger: Add freshly grated ginger and a bit more Dijon mustard to the glaze for a zesty, tangy profile. This variation brings a delightful warmth and complexity that’s sure to be a hit!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas or even come up with your own! The beauty of glazed ham is its versatility, so let your creativity shine and make it uniquely yours. Happy experimenting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about what to do with those delicious leftovers! If you’re lucky enough to have some glazed ham left after your feast, you’ll want to store it properly to keep all that flavor intact. First, let the ham cool completely before storing it. This helps avoid moisture buildup that can lead to sogginess.
To store, wrap the leftover ham tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, or place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure it’s well-sealed, so it doesn’t absorb any funky fridge odors. If you want to save it for a later date, you can also freeze the ham! Just slice it into portions for easy reheating later and wrap each piece in plastic wrap before placing it in freezer bags. It’ll stay good for up to 2 months in the freezer.
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is key! For best results, I recommend using the oven. Preheat it to 325°F (165°C) and place the sliced ham in a baking dish. Add a splash of apple cider or a bit of water to keep it moist, and cover it with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through. If you want that glaze to shine again, uncover it for the last 10 minutes to caramelize the top. Wow, it’s going to be just as delightful as the first time around!
If you’re in a rush, you can microwave individual slices, but be careful! Heat them on a lower setting to avoid rubbery ham. Just a minute or so at a time should do the trick. No one wants dried-out ham, right?
With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor every last bite of your amazing glazed ham. Enjoy those delicious leftovers!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your gorgeous glazed ham ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it! The right side dishes can really elevate your meal and create a beautiful spread. Here are some of my favorite pairings that complement that sweet and savory goodness of the ham:
- Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes is not only delicious but also adds a beautiful pop of color to your table. The caramelization of the veggies pairs wonderfully with the glaze on the ham!
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a classic! They soak up any extra glaze and juices from the ham, making each bite a delightful experience. Add a sprinkle of chives on top for a fresh touch!
- Green Bean Casserole: This comfort food favorite brings that lovely crunch and creaminess that complements the rich flavors of the ham. Plus, it’s a staple at holiday gatherings!
- Macaroni and Cheese: For a fun twist, serve some gooey mac and cheese on the side! The creamy cheese and pasta create a comforting balance to the savory ham.
- Fresh Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, apples, walnuts, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the meal. The sweetness of the apples echoes the flavors in the ham beautifully!
- Cranberry Sauce: You can’t go wrong with a tart cranberry sauce that cuts through the richness of the ham. It adds a festive touch and a burst of flavor that everyone will love.
- Homemade Biscuits: Fluffy, buttery biscuits are perfect for soaking up the delicious glaze. They add a comforting, homemade feel to your holiday meal.
With these serving suggestions, you’ll create a delightful meal that showcases your glazed ham while also providing a variety of flavors and textures. Your guests will be raving about the entire spread, and you might just start a new holiday tradition!
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Glazed Ham: 7 Flavorful Tips for Perfect Holiday Feasts
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A savory and sweet glazed ham recipe perfect for holidays.
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked ham (5–7 pounds)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern.
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, honey, mustard, vinegar, and cloves.
- Brush the glaze over the ham.
- Place the ham in a roasting pan and cover with foil.
- Bake for 1.5-2 hours, basting every 30 minutes.
- Remove foil for the last 30 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
- Let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Use the glaze on roasted vegetables.
- For a spicier glaze, add cayenne pepper.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 oz
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Glazed Ham, Holiday Ham, Baked Ham