Honey Glazed Ham is the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine thick slices of tender ham, kissed by a sweet and sticky glaze that sparkles like gold under the kitchen lights. The aroma wafts through the air, luring everyone to the dining table faster than you can say “seconds, please.” It’s that unforgettable centerpiece that transforms any gathering into a feast, making every bite an absolute celebration.
Now, let me take you down memory lane. Picture it: family holidays where laughter echoed through the halls and glistening Honey Glazed Ham stole the show. My aunt would strut into the room like a chef in an apron adorned with flour, presenting her masterpiece as if it were royalty. This dish has become synonymous with joy, togetherness, and just a smidge of friendly competition over who gets the last slice. Trust me; you’ll want to keep this recipe close for all those festive moments ahead.
Why You'll Love This Honey Glazed Ham
- This incredible Honey Glazed Ham transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Honey Glazed Ham:
- Bone-In Ham: Choose a fully cooked bone-in ham for rich flavor and juiciness; look for one that’s well-marbled.
- Honey: Use pure honey for that delightful sweetness; it’s the star of this glaze!
- Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar adds depth and richness to the glaze.
- Dijon Mustard: A touch of Dijon mustard brings a subtle tanginess that balances out the sweetness perfectly.
- Ground Cinnamon: Just a pinch of cinnamon adds warmth and complexity to the flavor profile.
For the Sauce:
- Apple Cider Vinegar: This helps cut through the sweetness and adds a tangy kick to the glaze.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Cooking Instructions
Leave your worries behind as you follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Honey Glazed Ham:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Get everything ready by lining a roasting pan with aluminum foil—this makes cleanup easier than a Sunday morning pancake breakfast.
Step 2: Prepare Your Ham
Place your ham in the roasting pan flat-side down. Using a sharp knife, score shallow diamond patterns across the surface—this allows all that glorious glaze to seep into every nook and cranny.
Step 3: Make the Glaze
In a bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cinnamon, and apple cider vinegar until smooth. This magical mixture will transform your ham into something truly spectacular.
Step 4: Glaze Away
Pour half of your glaze over the ham and use a brush (or spatula) to spread it around like you’re frosting a cake—because let’s be honest; it’s basically ham cake at this point!
Step 5: Bake
Cover your ham loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning. Bake in your preheated oven for about two hours or until heated through (internal temperature should reach about 140°F or 60°C). Remove from oven halfway through baking to add another layer of glaze—because more is always merrier!
Step 6: Serve It Up
Once out of the oven, let your ham rest for about ten minutes before slicing it up. Transfer those beautiful slices onto plates and drizzle with any leftover glaze for that perfect finishing touch.
Whether it’s Thanksgiving or Tuesday night dinner, this Honey Glazed Ham is sure to be met with applause worthy of Broadway! So gather ’round friends and family because good food is meant to be shared—and maybe even fought over when it comes to those last few pieces!
You Must Know About Honey Glazed Ham
- This showstopping Honey Glazed Ham delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while you prepare the glaze. Score the ham for maximum flavor absorption, then place it in the oven. While it’s baking, prepare your side dishes to serve simultaneously for a perfectly timed meal.
Flavor Your Way
Feel free to customize your Honey Glazed Ham with alternative sweeteners like maple syrup or brown sugar. Add spices such as cloves or cinnamon for a festive twist. You can also incorporate fruit juices like orange or pineapple to enhance sweetness.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Honey Glazed Ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, cover it with foil and warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through to maintain moisture and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Honey Glazed Ham
- This professional-quality Honey Glazed Ham relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
I remember the first time I made Honey Glazed Ham for my family’s holiday dinner; they devoured it so quickly that I barely got a slice! Their compliments made my day—and now it’s a beloved tradition at every gathering.
FAQs
What is Honey Glazed Ham?
Honey Glazed Ham is a delicious dish made by baking ham and glazing it with a sweet mixture of honey and spices. This preparation creates a caramelized exterior that enhances the natural flavor of the ham. The glaze typically includes ingredients like brown sugar, mustard, and sometimes fruit juices to add depth. It’s popular for holiday gatherings and special occasions, as its enticing aroma and beautiful presentation make it a favorite centerpiece on dinner tables.
How do I prepare Honey Glazed Ham?
To prepare Honey Glazed Ham, start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, then mix honey, brown sugar, and mustard to create the glaze. Apply this mixture generously over the scored areas. Bake the ham for about 15 minutes per pound, basting with the glaze every 20 minutes. This method ensures that each slice is flavorful and moist, providing an unforgettable dining experience.
What can I serve with Honey Glazed Ham?
Honey Glazed Ham pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. Additionally, classic sides like macaroni and cheese or cornbread complement the sweetness of the ham perfectly. For dessert, fruity pies or cakes can enhance your meal’s festive feel. This combination will create a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience for you and your guests.
How long does Honey Glazed Ham last in the fridge?
Once cooked, Honey Glazed Ham can last in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days if stored properly in an airtight container. Ensure that any leftover ham is cooled down before refrigerating to maintain its quality. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it; wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, it can last up to three months in the freezer without losing its flavor or texture.
Conclusion
In summary, Honey Glazed Ham is a delightful dish that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Its sweet glaze enhances the natural flavors of the ham while making it visually appealing. Preparing this dish is straightforward and takes just some time in the oven for an impressive result. Whether served with traditional sides or creative pairings, Honey Glazed Ham will surely be a hit at your next celebration. Enjoy this mouthwatering recipe as part of your culinary repertoire!
Honey Glazed Ham
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 10 people 1x
Description
Honey Glazed Ham is a show-stopping dish that transforms any gathering into a memorable feast. With its tender, juicy slices and a sweet, sticky glaze, this ham not only tantalizes the taste buds but also fills your home with an irresistible aroma. Perfect for holidays or family dinners, this simple recipe ensures delicious results every time, making it a must-have in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
- 1 bone-in ham (6–8 lbs)
- 1 cup honey
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a roasting pan with aluminum foil.
- Place the ham flat-side down in the pan and score diamond patterns on its surface.
- In a bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
- Pour half of the glaze over the ham and spread it evenly using a brush.
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for about 2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C), basting with remaining glaze halfway through.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 oz (85g)
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
