Looking for a centerpiece dish that will impress your guests at the next family gathering? This baked honey-glazed ham is the answer. It’s simple to prepare yet provides a flavor that’s unforgettable. With a perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness, this ham is sure to be the star of your dinner table.
Picture this: a beautifully glazed ham, glistening in the oven, sending mouthwatering aromas throughout your kitchen. The combination of honey, brown sugar, and mustard creates a sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully as it bakes, resulting in a tender and juicy ham that melts in your mouth.
The Allure of Honey-Glazed Ham
A honey-glazed ham serves as the perfect centerpiece for any festive gathering. Its rich golden-brown color, achieved through a carefully crafted glaze, draws the eye and whets the appetite.
The balance of sweetness and savory flavors creates an inviting aroma that fills the home, making guests feel welcome.
With just a few key ingredients, the magic of a honey-glazed ham is accessible to anyone wanting to impress their family and friends.
A Feast for the Senses
Imagine slicing into a beautifully baked ham, the glaze glistening in the light. Each slice reveals juicy, tender meat, perfectly complemented by the sticky, caramelized exterior.
The contrast of the ham’s smoky undertones against the sweet honey glaze makes each bite a delightful experience.
Garnishing it with fresh rosemary and bright orange slices not only enhances its appearance but also adds vibrant flavors.
Setting the Scene
To create an inviting dining atmosphere, a cozy setting is essential. A beautifully set table, complete with festive plates and elegant silverware, invites guests to gather around.
Soft lighting enhances the warmth of the occasion, encouraging conversations and laughter that make family meals memorable.
Pairing the ham with seasonal sides elevates the feast, ensuring that every guest leaves satisfied.
Preparation Made Simple
Preparing a honey-glazed ham is a straightforward process that requires minimal time and effort.
Starting with a fully cooked bone-in ham simplifies the cooking process, allowing you to focus on creating the perfect glaze.
By scoring the ham in a diamond pattern and applying the glaze, you can achieve a flavorful crust that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
A Dish for Every Gathering
This baked honey-glazed ham shines during holidays, family gatherings, or even casual dinners.
Its rich flavors and stunning presentation make it suitable for any occasion, impressing guests and becoming a talking point at the table.
With easy preparation and a stunning outcome, this dish is bound to become a family favorite for years to come.
The Joy of Sharing
Ultimately, a honey-glazed ham is more than just a meal; it’s an experience meant to be shared.
Gathering around the table, savoring delicious food, and enjoying quality time with loved ones reflects the essence of family traditions.
Each bite of the ham reminds everyone of the joy in togetherness, making it a truly special dish for any celebration.
The Perfect Honey-Glazed Ham for Any Occasion
This baked ham is sweet and tangy, featuring a luscious glaze that enhances the natural flavors of the meat. Each bite offers a delightful blend of smoky and sweet, making it a fantastic dish for holidays or special gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup apple juice or water
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Prepare the Ham: Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern and place it in a roasting pan, cut side down.
- Make the Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and black pepper.
- Glaze the Ham: Brush half of the glaze mixture over the ham, ensuring it gets into the scored lines.
- Add Liquid: Pour apple juice or water into the bottom of the roasting pan to keep the ham moist during cooking.
- Bake: Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the remaining glaze.
- Uncover and Caramelize: Remove the foil for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the glaze to caramelize and develop a beautiful color.
- Serve: Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 12 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 14g
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 30g