Glazed Baked Ham: A Holiday Showstopper

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a beautifully glazed baked ham to elevate your holiday table. With its sweet and savory glaze caramelizing over tender, juicy meat, this dish not only tastes divine but also makes for an impressive centerpiece. Imagine the moment you bring it out, the aroma filling the room, and your guests’ eyes lighting up—it’s a sight to behold!

I discovered this recipe during a festive gathering, and it quickly became a family favorite. The combination of flavors and the ease of preparation make it a go-to for both special occasions and cozy family dinners. Whether you’re celebrating Easter, Thanksgiving, or just having a Sunday feast, this glazed baked ham is sure to impress.

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can customize the glaze to suit your taste, whether you prefer a classic honey glaze or something with a bit more zest. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe and how to make it flawlessly!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Make: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is approachable for any cook.
• Impressive Flavor: The sweet glaze caramelizes beautifully, enhancing the natural flavors of the ham for a delightful experience.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different glazes, spices, and herbs to make it your own.
• Elegant Presentation: A glazed ham looks stunning when sliced and plated, making it perfect for impressing guests.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This dish provides delicious leftovers for sandwiches, salads, or breakfast dishes.
• Tradition and Memories: Serving a glazed baked ham can evoke cherished memories and traditions, making it a meaningful addition to your holiday gatherings.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours (30 minutes prep, 1.5 hours cooking)
• Servings: This recipe serves about 8-10 people.
• Nutrition Facts: Calories per serving: 350, Protein: 30g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 15g.

Ingredients

• 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (8-10 pounds): The star of the dish, providing flavor and texture.
• 1 cup brown sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a caramelized glaze.
• 1 cup honey: Enhances the sweetness and adds a lovely floral note.
• ¼ cup Dijon mustard: Provides a tangy contrast to the sweetness.
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar: Adds acidity and brightness to the glaze.
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves: For warmth and depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a comforting spice note.
• Optional garnishes: Fresh herbs or pineapple slices for decoration.

Step-by-Step Instructions

STEP 1: PREHEAT THE OVEN

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This temperature is perfect for slowly warming the ham and allowing the glaze to develop.

STEP 2: PREPARE THE HAM

Place the ham on a large cutting board or a baking dish. Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about ¼ inch deep. This not only looks beautiful but also allows the glaze to penetrate the meat for more flavor. Take your time with this step; a well-scored ham not only enhances the presentation but also ensures that each slice is infused with that delicious glaze.

STEP 3: MAKE THE GLAZE

In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is well combined. Bring it to a gentle simmer and cook for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened. The aroma of the glaze will fill your kitchen, and you may find yourself wanting to taste it at this stage!

STEP 4: GLAZE THE HAM

Place the ham in a roasting pan, cut side down. Brush a generous amount of the glaze over the surface of the ham, making sure to get it into the scored cuts. Reserve some glaze for later basting. If you like, you can use a basting brush for even coverage. The goal is to coat the ham thoroughly so that every slice will be packed with flavor.

STEP 5: ROAST THE HAM

Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Roast for about 1 hour, basting every 20 minutes with the reserved glaze. This will help to develop a beautiful caramelized crust. The foil helps to keep the moisture in, but be sure to remove it during the final stages of cooking to allow the glaze to caramelize beautifully.

STEP 6: FINISH ROASTING

After an hour, remove the foil and continue roasting for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). The glaze should be bubbly and caramelized. You can increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 10-15 minutes to enhance the caramelization if desired.

STEP 7: REST AND SERVE

Once done, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful ham. Garnish with fresh herbs or pineapple slices if desired. The resting period is crucial; it keeps the meat juicy and flavorful, making your first slice an unforgettable one.

How to Serve

• Pair with Sides: Serve with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, or glazed carrots for a complete holiday meal. The sweet and savory flavors of the ham complement a variety of side dishes, enhancing your entire holiday spread.
• Drizzle with Sauce: Consider serving extra glaze on the side for guests to drizzle over their slices. This not only adds extra flavor but also gives your guests the opportunity to customize their plates.
• Wine Pairing: A fruity red wine, such as Zinfandel, complements the sweetness of the ham beautifully. Alternatively, a crisp white wine like Riesling can also enhance the dish.

Additional Tips

1. Choose the Right Ham: Look for a fully cooked ham for ease of preparation. Bone-in hams tend to have more flavor, and the bone adds richness to the dish.
2. Basting is Key: Regular basting during the roasting process helps to keep the ham moist and flavorful. Don’t skip this step; it’s essential for achieving that perfect glaze.
3. Make Ahead: You can prepare the glaze a day in advance and store it in the fridge for convenience. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
4. Leftover Storage: Store any leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It’s perfect for sandwiches or adding to soups!
5. Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your ham is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It takes the guesswork out of cooking and helps avoid overcooking.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Glaze: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick. This contrasts nicely with the sweetness and adds complexity to the dish.
• Fruit-Infused Glaze: Incorporate fruit juices like orange or pineapple for a fresh twist. You can also use diced fruits in the glaze for added texture.
• Herbed Glaze: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for added depth of flavor. Fresh herbs can brighten the overall taste of the glaze.
• Maple Glaze: Substitute maple syrup for honey for a different sweet flavor profile. Maple adds a unique richness that pairs beautifully with ham.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Complement the ham with sides like scalloped potatoes, coleslaw, or a warm quinoa salad. Each of these sides adds its own flavor profile, creating a harmonious meal.
• Beverage Pairing: Serve with a sparkling apple cider or a light cocktail for a festive touch. These drinks enhance the flavors of the meal while keeping the atmosphere joyful.
• Kid-Friendly Options: Serve ham slices on sandwiches or with macaroni and cheese for a kid-friendly meal. This makes it easy for children to enjoy the meal and makes leftovers fun!

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Leftover glazed ham can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This makes it easy to enjoy the dish for days after your holiday meal.
• Freezing: If you have leftovers, wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. This ensures it stays fresh and ready for another meal.
• Reheating: To reheat, place slices in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This keeps the ham moist while warming it up.

Special Equipment

• Roasting Pan: A large roasting pan is essential for cooking the ham evenly. Choose one with a rack for better airflow around the meat.
• Meat Thermometer: A must-have for ensuring your ham is cooked to perfection. It takes the uncertainty out of cooking and helps avoid overcooking.
• Basting Brush: Helpful for applying the glaze throughout the cooking process. A silicone brush is great for spreading the glaze without damaging the ham.

FAQ Section

Can I use a boneless ham?
Yes, you can use a bon

eless ham, but keep in mind that the cooking time may vary. Ensure that it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).

What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?
If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, you can substitute it with white wine vinegar or even lemon juice for a tangy kick.

How do I know when the ham is done?
Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure your ham is cooked properly. The internal temperature should read 140°F (60°C) for fully cooked ham.

Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the glaze a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.

What should I do with leftovers?
Leftover ham is incredibly versatile. You can use it in sandwiches, salads, quiches, or even soups. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion

I hope you’re excited to try this Glazed Baked Ham recipe! It’s a dish that brings warmth and flavor to your holiday table, making every bite a delightful experience. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress.

Don’t forget to share your results! I can’t wait to see how it turns out for you—be sure to leave a comment or tag me on social media with your delicious creations. Enjoy your cooking!

Print