Perfect Honey-Glazed Ham: A Festive Favorite

Honey-glazed ham is a timeless classic that graces holiday tables around the world, especially during Christmas. Its irresistible blend of sweet and savory flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings and festive feasts. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about preparing the perfect honey-glazed ham, ensuring your dish shines as the centerpiece of your celebration.

Why Choose Honey-Glazed Ham for Your Holiday Table?

Honey-glazed ham is more than just a dish—it’s a tradition. Its rich, caramelized exterior paired with juicy, tender meat creates a harmony of flavors that satisfies every palate. The subtle sweetness of the honey glaze enhances the natural saltiness of the ham, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a balance of flavors.

Moreover, honey-glazed ham is versatile. Whether served hot as the main course or enjoyed cold as leftovers, it remains a delicious option that can be paired with various side dishes like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or cranberry sauce.

ALSO READ: Best Duchess Potatoes: A Simple Christmas Side Dish

Perfect Honey-Glazed Ham: A Festive Favorite

Recipe by RecipeWikkiCourse: MainCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

12-14

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

1

hour 

30

minutes

Calories

350

kcal

This honey-glazed ham recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your holiday cooking repertoire. Bookmark this guide for your next celebration and make your festivities unforgettable!

Ingredients

• Bone-in ham (8–10 pounds)

• Honey (1 cup)

• Brown sugar (1/2 cup)

• Dijon mustard (2 tablespoons)

• Apple cider vinegar (2 tablespoons)

• Ground cloves (1/2 teaspoon)

• Optional garnishes: Pineapple rings or maraschino cherries for a festive touch

Directions

• Prepare the Ham: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham on a roasting rack inside a large baking pan. If using a spiral-cut ham, leave it intact to prevent it from drying out.
• Create the Glaze: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and ground cloves. Stir until the mixture thickens slightly and becomes syrupy.
• Glaze the Ham: Using a pastry brush, generously coat the ham with the glaze. Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil to keep it moist during baking.
• Bake the Ham: Bake for 10–12 minutes per pound, basting with additional glaze every 20–30 minutes. For a crispy, caramelized finish, remove the foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
• Rest and Serve: Once cooked, let the ham rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful bite.

Notes

• Choose the Right Ham: A bone-in ham offers more flavor and juiciness compared to boneless options.
• Avoid Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
• Elevate Presentation: Garnish your ham with fresh herbs, pineapple slices, or cherries for a festive look.