Introduction
Glazed ham is a timeless classic that brings a delicious balance of sweet and savory flavors to the table. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday feast, a Sunday dinner, or a special occasion, this recipe guarantees a juicy, tender ham coated in a rich, caramelized glaze.
In this recipe, we’ll walk you through how to make the perfect glazed ham using a simple yet flavorful glaze. This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even a fresh green salad.
Ingredients
For the Ham:
- 1 fully cooked, bone-in spiral-cut ham (8–10 lbs)
- 1 cup water (or apple juice for extra sweetness)
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ¼ cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground cloves
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ham
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Place the ham in a large roasting pan with the cut side down. Pour the water (or apple juice) into the bottom of the pan to keep the ham moist during baking.
- Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake for about 10–12 minutes per pound (approximately 1.5–2 hours for an 8–10 lb ham).
Step 2: Make the Glaze
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, orange juice, butter, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and cloves.
- Stir continuously until the butter melts and the mixture starts to simmer.
- Let the glaze cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Glaze the Ham
- After the ham has baked for about 1.5 hours, remove it from the oven and increase the temperature to 400°F (205°C).
- Brush the glaze generously over the entire ham, making sure to get into the spiral-cut slices.
- Return the ham to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, basting with more glaze every 5 minutes.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Once the glaze is caramelized and slightly sticky, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
- Serve with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted potatoes, sautéed green beans, or a fresh citrus salad.
Tips for the Best Glazed Ham
- Choose a high-quality ham: A spiral-cut ham makes serving easier and allows the glaze to seep into every slice.
- Use a meat thermometer: The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C) for best results.
- Baste frequently: Brushing the glaze multiple times ensures a rich, caramelized finish.
Final Thoughts
This glazed ham recipe is perfect for holidays and special gatherings. The combination of brown sugar, honey, and spices creates a beautifully caramelized glaze that enhances the natural flavors of the ham. Try it at your next celebration, and watch it become the star of your dinner table!
Would you like more delicious holiday recipes? Let us know in the comments below!
