This air fryer honey baked ham is a delicious and convenient way to prepare a classic dish. The air fryer helps achieve a perfectly caramelized exterior while keeping the meat juicy and tender.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy this flavorful ham in less time than traditional methods.
Preparing the Perfect Honey Baked Ham
Creating a honey baked ham that impresses is simpler than it seems. Start with a fully cooked ham, ideally weighing between 3 to 4 pounds. This ensures that the meat remains juicy and tender throughout the cooking process.
Begin by scoring the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This not only enhances the presentation but also allows the glaze to penetrate deeper, infusing the meat with flavor. Place the ham in a large bowl, ready for the glaze.
Crafting the Glaze
The glaze is what elevates the ham to a new level of deliciousness. Combine honey, brown sugar, and a selection of spices such as ground cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg in a small bowl. If you desire a hint of tang, add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the mix.
Mix these ingredients until well combined, creating a thick, sticky glaze that will coat the ham beautifully. This mixture not only adds sweetness but also a rich, aromatic flavor that complements the savory notes of the ham.
Cooking in the Air Fryer
Preheating the air fryer is a crucial step. Set it to 320°F (160°C) and allow it to warm up for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the ham cooks evenly and achieves that desired caramelized exterior.
Once preheated, place the glazed ham in the air fryer basket. Cook for approximately 30 minutes, basting with any remaining glaze halfway through. This will enhance the flavor and create a beautiful, shiny finish.
Checking for Doneness
To ensure the ham is perfectly cooked, check its internal temperature. It should reach 140°F (60°C). If it hasn’t reached this temperature, continue cooking for an additional 5 to 10 minutes. This step is vital for both safety and taste.
Once done, remove the ham from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice juicy and flavorful.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving, presentation is key. Slice the ham to showcase its juicy interior and arrange it on a festive platter. Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and added freshness.
This honey baked ham pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it a perfect centerpiece for holiday gatherings or family dinners. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad to complete the meal.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The ham can last for several days, allowing you to enjoy its deliciousness in sandwiches or as part of a hearty breakfast.
Reheating is simple; just warm slices in the microwave or air fryer to retain moisture. This way, you can savor the flavors of your beautifully glazed honey baked ham long after the initial feast.
Quick and Easy Air Fryer Honey Baked Ham
This recipe features a pre-cooked ham glazed with a mixture of honey, brown sugar, and spices, cooked in an air fryer for about 30 minutes. It serves 6-8 people and is perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked ham (about 3-4 pounds)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Aluminum foil for wrapping
Instructions
- Prepare the Ham: Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern and place it in a large bowl.
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together honey, brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
- Apply the Glaze: Brush the glaze generously over the scored ham, ensuring it gets into the cuts.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Ham: Place the ham in the air fryer basket and cook for 30 minutes, basting with the remaining glaze halfway through the cooking time.
- Check for Doneness: Ensure the internal temperature of the ham reaches 140°F (60°C). If needed, cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Serve: Remove the ham from the air fryer, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6-8 servings
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 30g