Honey-glazed ham is a classic centre piece for holiday dinners, family gatherings, and festive celebrations. This dish features a juicy, tender ham coated in a rich, sweet honey glaze with hints of warm spices. In this blog, we will explore the step-by-step process of making Honey-Glazed Ham.
Ingredients Needed for Honey-Glazed Ham
To make the perfect honey-glazed ham, you will need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 bone-in ham (8-10 pounds, fully cooked)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (or orange juice for a citrus twist)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Whole cloves (optional for decoration)
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Honey-Glazed Ham
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Ham
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan and score the surface in a diamond pattern.
- If desired, insert whole cloves into the scored sections for extra flavor.
Step 2: Make the Honey Glaze
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, black pepper, butter, and salt.
- Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the glaze thickens slightly (about 5 minutes).
Step 3: Bake the Ham
- Brush a generous layer of glaze over the ham.
- Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting with glaze every 30 minutes.
Step 4: Caramelize the Glaze
- Remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C).
- Brush on the remaining glaze and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until the glaze caramelizes and forms a golden-brown crust.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm with your favorite holiday sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or dinner rolls.
Pro Tips for the Best Honey-Glazed Ham
- Use a bone-in ham: This enhances the flavor and keeps the meat juicy.
- Score the surface: Allows the glaze to penetrate deeper for maximum flavor.
- Baste frequently: Regular glazing ensures a caramelized, flavorful crust.
- Use a meat thermometer: Ensure the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) for safe consumption.
- Pair with delicious sides: Serve with cranberry sauce, sweet potatoes, or stuffing for a well-rounded meal.
This honey-glazed ham is a balance of sweet, savoury, and spiced flavours, making it the ultimate dish for holiday feasts. The caramelized glaze gives it a rich depth of flavour while keeping the ham tender and juicy. Whether for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter, this recipe is a guaranteed hit!
Now that you know how to make Honey-Glazed Ham, try this classic recipe for your next gathering. Don’t forget to experiment with different glaze variations and share your experience in the comments below!
