Oh, glazed ham! It’s one of those dishes that instantly brings back warm memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations. I mean, who doesn’t love that sweet, sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven? This dish is a staple on holiday tables, from Thanksgiving to Christmas, and it’s no wonder why. The aroma wafting through the house as it bakes is simply irresistible! Plus, it’s so versatile; you can serve it with all your favorite sides, and it never fails to impress. Trust me, when you carve into that beautifully glazed ham, everyone will gather around, eager for a slice. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a centerpiece that creates moments and memories with loved ones. So, let’s dive into how to make the *best* glazed ham that’ll have everyone raving!
Ingredients List
Before we get started, let’s make sure we have everything we need for this delicious glazed ham. Here’s the list of ingredients you’ll want to gather:
- 1 fully cooked ham (8-10 lbs) – This is the star of the show, so choose one that looks juicy and flavorful!
- 1 cup packed brown sugar – This will give your glaze that sweet, caramelized touch.
- 1/2 cup honey – A touch of natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory ham.
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard – This adds a little zing to the glaze, balancing out the sweetness beautifully.
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar – A splash of acidity to brighten up the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves – These warm spices are what make the ham taste so comforting.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – A hint of warmth that’s just perfect for holiday feasting.
Having these ingredients on hand will make your glazed ham shine with flavor. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every bite!
How to Prepare Glazed Ham
Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the steps for preparing this mouthwatering glazed ham. Don’t worry, I’ve broken it down into easy-to-follow parts so you can shine in the kitchen!
Preheat the Oven
First things first—preheating is key! Set your oven to 325°F (165°C). This temperature is perfect for slowly warming the ham, allowing all those delicious flavors to meld together without drying it out. Trust me, this step is essential for a perfectly baked ham!
Prepare the Ham
Next up, let’s get that ham ready for its flavorful makeover! Start by scoring the surface in a diamond pattern—this means making shallow cuts about an inch apart in both directions. Not only does this look beautiful, but it also helps the glaze seep into the meat, enhancing the flavor and giving you that gorgeous caramelization. Ooh, can you already smell it?
Make the Glaze
Alright, onto the fun part—making the glaze! In a bowl, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon. Mix it all together until you have a smooth, sticky glaze. The smell alone will have your mouth watering! You want this glaze to be thick enough to coat the ham beautifully, so don’t rush this step. It’s all about that flavor!
Apply the Glaze
Now, grab your brush and let’s get glazing! Generously brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get into those scored areas. This is where the magic happens—the more glaze, the better the flavor! Make sure every inch is covered, so it bakes into a sweet, sticky masterpiece.
Baking the Ham
Time to bake! Place the ham in a roasting pan and cover it with foil. This keeps it nice and moist while it cooks. Pop it in the oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting it every 30 minutes with the juices that collect in the pan. This step is crucial for keeping the ham juicy and flavorful. Don’t skip it!
Finishing Touches
In the last 30 minutes of baking, remove the foil to let that glaze caramelize. This is when the magic really happens! You’ll want to keep an eye on it; the ham should develop a beautiful, shiny crust that’s just begging to be sliced. Wow, it’s going to look amazing!
Rest and Slice
Once your ham is out of the oven, resist the urge to slice it right away. Let it rest for about 15-20 minutes. This resting period is super important because it allows the juices to redistribute, keeping every slice juicy and packed with flavor. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later when you take that first bite!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of this delightful glazed ham! Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes. Here’s a rough breakdown per serving (about 3 oz):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 1000mg
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Fiber: 0g
This glazed ham is not only delicious but also provides a hearty serving of protein! Just keep an eye on the sodium if you’re watching your intake. Enjoy every flavorful bite, and remember, moderation is key!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Prep Time: With just 20 minutes of prep, you can have this stunning dish ready for the oven in no time!
- Flavorful: The sweet and savory glaze creates a mouthwatering flavor that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Perfect for Holidays: This glazed ham is a true showstopper, making it ideal for festive gatherings and celebrations.
- Serves a Crowd: With 12 generous servings, it’s perfect for family feasts or holiday parties.
- Easy to Make: Even if you’re a kitchen novice, this recipe is straightforward and foolproof—no culinary degree required!
Tips for Success
Before you dive into making your glazed ham, here are some pro tips that’ll help you achieve the absolute best results—trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make all the difference!
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This is my secret weapon! The best way to ensure your ham is perfectly heated without drying out is by using a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) for a fully cooked ham. This way, you’ll never have to guess if it’s done.
- Adjust the Glaze to Your Taste: If you like things a bit sweeter, feel free to add a touch more honey or brown sugar. On the flip side, if you prefer a tangier glaze, a bit more Dijon mustard or vinegar can really elevate the flavor. Get creative and make it your own!
- Don’t Skip the Basting: I can’t stress this enough—basting every 30 minutes is crucial! It not only keeps the ham moist but also allows that glaze to really penetrate into the meat, making it extra flavorful.
- Let It Rest: After baking, don’t rush to slice the ham! Letting it rest for about 15-20 minutes is essential for keeping all those delicious juices intact. I promise, you’ll be rewarded with moist, flavorful slices!
- Save the Drippings: Those lovely drippings left in the roasting pan are pure gold! Use them to make a delicious gravy or drizzle over your sides for an extra punch of flavor. Nothing goes to waste here!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a glazed ham that’s not just good, but simply unforgettable. Happy cooking!
Variations
If you’re feeling a little adventurous or just want to switch things up with your glazed ham, I’ve got some fabulous variations that will add a unique twist to this classic dish! Each option brings its own delightful flavor profile, so you can cater to your taste buds or impress your guests with something new.
- Fruit-Infused Glaze: Why not add some crushed pineapple or orange juice to your glaze? The fruity sweetness balances the savory ham beautifully, creating a tropical twist that’s perfect for summer gatherings.
- Maple Syrup Magic: Swap out the honey for maple syrup for a rich, deep flavor. The maple complements the ham perfectly, giving it that cozy, comforting vibe that’s just right for fall and winter holidays.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze. This spicy addition will elevate the flavor and give your ham a surprising kick!
- Herb-Infused Glaze: For an aromatic touch, mix in some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into your glaze. Their earthy flavors add depth and a lovely fragrance that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the glaze.
- Cranberry Delight: Stir in some cranberry sauce or jam for a tart, sweet contrast that’s especially festive during the holidays. The tanginess complements the savory ham perfectly!
- Ginger Zing: Incorporate some grated fresh ginger or ginger powder into your glaze. This adds a lovely warmth and spice that will make your glazed ham unique and memorable.
Feel free to combine any of these ideas or come up with your own! The beauty of this glazed ham recipe is its versatility, allowing you to make it truly your own. Happy experimenting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you’ve got your delicious glazed ham, let’s talk about storing those tasty leftovers! Trust me, this ham is just as delightful the next day, and with the right storage, you’ll keep it juicy and flavorful.
First off, once your ham has cooled down, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. If you’ve got a lot left over, you can slice it up and store it in an airtight container. Be sure to keep it in the fridge, where it’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days. Just remember to keep it sealed well to avoid that dreaded dry ham situation—nobody wants that!
When it comes time to reheat, I recommend gently warming it up in the oven to maintain its moisture. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and place the ham in a baking dish. Add a splash of broth or water to the bottom of the dish and cover it with foil. This will help keep it nice and juicy as it warms up. Heat it for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s warmed through. You want to avoid overcooking it, so keeping an eye on it is key!
If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave to reheat slices, but be sure to cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out. Heat in short intervals, checking frequently until they’re just warm enough to enjoy.
So there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your glazed ham long after the initial feast. Happy eating!
Print
Glazed ham that Creates Unforgettable Holiday Memories
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A sweet and savory glazed ham recipe perfect for holidays.
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked ham (8–10 lbs)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the 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, cloves, and cinnamon.
- Brush the glaze over the ham.
- Place the ham in a roasting pan, cover with foil.
- Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes.
- Remove foil for the last 30 minutes for a caramelized finish.
- Let it rest before slicing.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- 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: 1000mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: glazed ham, holiday ham, baked ham
