Honey Glazed Ham

There’s something magical about the aroma of Honey Glazed Ham wafting through your home. It’s like a fragrant hug that wraps you in warmth and comfort, making you feel instantly at ease. Imagine succulent, tender ham bathed in a luscious honey glaze that caramelizes to perfection in the oven, creating a sweet crust that dances on your taste buds.

As I think back to family gatherings, I can almost hear the laughter echoing around the table as we devoured this delicious Honey Glazed Ham. It was always the star of the show, taking center stage on special occasions like holidays and birthdays. The anticipation of slicing into that glistening ham was almost too much to bear. Trust me, once you experience that first bite, you’ll be planning your next feast before you’ve even finished!

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Honey Glazed Ham:

• Bone-In Ham: A 7-10 pound bone-in ham is ideal for maximum flavor and tenderness; look for one that’s well-marbled.
• Honey: Use pure honey for an authentic sweetness; it’s what gives this dish its signature glaze.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy kick that perfectly balances the sweetness of the honey.
• Brown Sugar: Use light or dark brown sugar for that rich caramelization and depth of flavor.
• Cinnamon: A pinch of ground cinnamon adds warmth and cozy vibes to the glaze.

For the Sauce:

• Apple Cider Vinegar: This ingredient helps to cut through the sweetness while adding a bit of acidity.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Honey Glazed Ham:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Prepare a roasting pan by lining it with aluminum foil for easy cleanup later—because who wants more dishes?

Step 2: Prepare the Ham

Place your beautiful bone-in ham on a cutting board and score the surface in a diamond pattern about an inch apart. This not only looks fancy but also allows the glaze to seep into those scrumptious pockets.

Step 3: Create Your Glaze

In a mixing bowl, combine honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, cinnamon, and apple cider vinegar. Whisk until you’re left with a smooth concoction that smells heavenly—you might want to resist licking it right off the whisk.

Step 4: Apply the Glaze

Generously brush half of your glorious honey mixture all over that ham! Make sure you get into those diamond cuts so every bite is bursting with flavor.

Step 5: Bake It Up

Place the ham in your roasting pan and cover it loosely with foil. Pop it in the preheated oven and let it bake for about two hours. Every thirty minutes, baste with more glaze—this is where patience pays off!

Step 6: Finish Strong

Remove the foil for the last thirty minutes of baking so that glaze can caramelize beautifully. Once it’s done—check if it reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C)—let it rest for about fifteen minutes before slicing.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch!

Now grab a plate (or two), because this Honey Glazed Ham is going to have everyone coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds! Enjoy each savory-sweet bite while basking in compliments from family and friends who will be begging you for this recipe!

Perfecting Cooking Process

Begin by preheating your oven to the desired temperature. While it heats, prepare the glaze and score the ham. Sear the ham in a hot skillet before placing it in the oven to lock in moisture and flavor.

Flavor Your Way

Feeling adventurous? Swap out honey for maple syrup or brown sugar for a different sweetness level. Add spices like cloves or mustard for a unique twist that’ll have everyone guessing your secret ingredient.

Storing & Reheating

To keep your Honey Glazed Ham fresh, wrap it tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container. Reheat slices gently in the oven or microwave, drizzled with extra glaze for that just-cooked flavor.

When I first attempted making Honey Glazed Ham for a family gathering, my cousin declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” That’s when I knew I was onto something delicious!

FAQs

What is Honey Glazed Ham?

Honey glazed ham is a deliciously sweet and savory dish made by baking ham with a glaze that includes honey, brown sugar, and spices. This classic recipe brings out the natural flavors of the ham while adding a sticky, caramelized exterior. Often served during holidays or special occasions, honey glazed ham is a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with various sides such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.

How do you make Honey Glazed Ham?

Making honey glazed ham is simple and requires just a few ingredients. Start with a pre-cooked ham and score the surface in a diamond pattern. Mix honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and cloves to create the glaze. Brush it generously over the ham and bake it in the oven. Baste every 20 minutes until it’s warm and caramelized. The process usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the size of your ham.

What can I serve with Honey Glazed Ham?

Honey glazed ham pairs well with numerous sides that complement its sweet flavor. Classic options include creamy mashed potatoes, tangy coleslaw, and roasted Brussels sprouts. You can also serve it alongside baked beans or scalloped potatoes for a heartier meal. For dessert, consider fruity options like apple pie or fresh berries to balance the richness of the ham.

Can I make Honey Glazed Ham ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare honey glazed ham ahead of time! You can bake it and then refrigerate it for up to three days before serving. To reheat, slice the ham, place it in a baking dish with some glaze, cover it with foil, and warm it in the oven at 325°F until heated through. This way, you can enjoy all its flavors without spending too much time in the kitchen on serving day.

Conclusion

In summary, honey glazed ham is an irresistible dish perfect for any gathering. With its sweet and savory profile and easy preparation steps, it’s an excellent choice for holiday feasts or family dinners. Remember to pair your honey glazed ham with complementary sides for a complete meal experience. Whether you’re making this dish for a special occasion or just because you love it, honey glazed ham will surely impress your guests!