Imagine the aroma of a perfectly baked ham filling your kitchen, making your mouth water in anticipation. This honey-glazed baked ham is a showstopper for any holiday feast or family gathering. It’s not just a meal; it’s a centerpiece that will have everyone raving about your cooking skills.
With the right blend of sweet and savory flavors, this recipe ensures that each slice melts in your mouth. The combination of honey, brown sugar, and mustard gives the ham a beautiful caramelized exterior that contrasts perfectly with its tender, juicy interior. Get ready to impress your guests!
Overview of Honey-Glazed Baked Ham
This honey-glazed baked ham becomes the star of any holiday table, with its stunning appearance and mouthwatering flavor profile.
The combination of honey, brown sugar, and spices creates a beautiful caramelized glaze that not only enhances the ham’s natural flavors but also provides an appealing shine that draws everyone in.
Its tender, juicy slices are perfect for sharing, making it ideal for family gatherings, celebrations, or festive dinners. The vibrant garnishes of fresh parsley and seasonal fruits add a pop of color, elevating the visual appeal of the dish.
Ingredients That Shine
To achieve the delightful flavor of this baked ham, only a handful of ingredients are required.
The star ingredient, ham, is complemented by the sweetness of honey and brown sugar, while Dijon mustard introduces a tangy contrast.
Seasonings such as cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper bring warmth and depth, ensuring that every bite is filled with rich, harmonious flavors.
Preparation Steps That Wow
Preparing this dish is straightforward, making it accessible even for novice cooks.
Starting with scoring the ham in a diamond pattern not only helps the glaze penetrate deeply but also adds an attractive visual element.
The process of creating the glaze involves gently heating the ingredients until they meld together, resulting in a smooth and fragrant mixture that will transform the ham during baking.
Cooking Techniques for Perfect Results
Baking the ham at a steady temperature ensures even cooking and allows the flavors to develop fully.
Basting the ham with the glaze during the cooking process is essential to achieve that desired caramelized exterior.
Removing the foil towards the end of baking allows the glaze to thicken and create a shiny finish, making the ham irresistible.
Serving Suggestions
When the ham is finally ready, resting it for a short period before slicing is key to retaining its juicy texture.
Presenting the sliced ham on a wooden platter garnished with fresh parsley and a selection of seasonal fruits adds a festive touch, making it perfect for any celebration.
Pairing this dish with sides such as roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes enhances the meal, providing a well-rounded dining experience.
A Festive Centerpiece for Any Occasion
This honey-glazed baked ham not only serves as a delicious meal but also as an eye-catching centerpiece for gatherings.
The shimmering glaze and colorful garnishes create an inviting atmosphere, encouraging guests to gather around the table to enjoy.
Whether it’s a holiday feast or a family dinner, this dish is sure to leave a lasting impression on everyone at the table.
The Perfect Honey-Glazed Baked Ham
This baked ham is sweet, smoky, and succulent, bringing together the rich flavors of honey and brown sugar with a hint of tang from mustard. It’s a delightful dish that’s easy to prepare and will leave everyone asking for seconds.
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 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Whole cloves for studding (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Prepare the Ham: Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, making shallow cuts. If desired, stud the ham with whole cloves for added flavor and decoration.
- Make the Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper. Cook over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
- Glaze the Ham: Place the ham in a roasting pan, brush half of the glaze over the surface, and cover loosely with foil.
- Bake the Ham: Bake the ham in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the remaining glaze. Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize.
- Check for Doneness: The ham is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 10-12 slices
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 40g