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Honey Glazed Ham

Honey Glazed Ham

Honey Glazed Ham is a classic and comforting dish that combines sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors with a tender, juicy ham coated in a sticky, caramelized honey glaze. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or special dinners, this recipe transforms a simple ham into a stunning centerpiece that balances sweetness, spice, and tang with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Bone-in pre-cooked or spiral-sliced ham (size based on serving need)
  • Honey (about 1/2 to 3/4 cup)
  • Brown sugar (1/2 cup)
  • Dijon mustard (2 tablespoons)
  • Pineapple juice or orange juice (1/4 cup)
  • Ground cloves or cinnamon (1/4 teaspoon, optional)

Optional Variations and Additions

  • Maple syrup (as substitute for honey)
  • Cayenne pepper or chili flakes (pinch for spicy kick)
  • Lemon juice (as substitute for pineapple/orange juice)
  • Fresh rosemary or thyme (for herbal infusion)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ham: Remove the ham from packaging and pat dry with paper towels. If not pre-scored, carefully score the surface in a diamond pattern with a sharp knife to allow the glaze to penetrate deeply.
  2. Make the Honey Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and your chosen juice (pineapple or orange). Heat gently over low heat, stirring until the sugar melts and the mixture becomes smooth. Add cloves or cinnamon if using.
  3. Apply the First Coat: Place the ham in a roasting pan on a rack. Brush the glaze all over the ham, ensuring it covers the scored cuts for maximum flavor absorption.
  4. Bake the Ham: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Roast the ham for about 10-12 minutes per pound. Every 20 minutes, baste the ham generously with the remaining glaze to build a rich, sticky coating.
  5. Final Caramelization: For the last 10 minutes of cooking, increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) to caramelize the glaze and achieve a glossy, golden finish. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
  6. Rest the Ham: Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This helps lock in the juices for a moist, tender bite.

Notes

  • Choose a spiral-cut ham for even glaze coverage and easier slicing.
  • Score the ham deeply but avoid cutting too far to prevent drying out the meat.
  • Baste frequently to create multiple flavorful glaze layers.
  • Use a roasting rack to allow even heat circulation and prevent sogginess.
  • Let the ham rest before serving to retain moisture.
  • For reheating leftovers, cover slices with foil and warm gently at 275°F (135°C) or on low heat in a pan with added liquid to keep moist.

Nutrition

Keywords: Honey Glazed Ham, holiday ham, baked ham, sweet and savory ham, glazed ham recipe, easy ham glaze, spiral ham glaze