why make this recipe
Honey Baked Ham is a beloved dish that combines savory and sweet flavors, making it perfect for festive occasions. This recipe stands out due to its simplicity and the rich taste that appeals to everyone at the table. A classic for holidays and family gatherings, this ham brings warmth and joy to any meal.
Preparing it is easier than one might think. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a centerpiece that impresses your guests and warms hearts. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a simple Sunday dinner, Honey Baked Ham never disappoints.
equipment needed for Honey Baked Ham
To prepare Honey Baked Ham, you’ll need several essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make the cooking process smoother and more efficient.
- A large roasting pan to hold the ham during cooking.
- An oven bag to keep the ham moist while baking.
- A small saucepan for melting the glaze ingredients.
- An instant-read thermometer to check the ham’s internal temperature.
- A whisk for combining the glaze ingredients.
- A cutting board and sharp knife for carving the ham.
What You Need to Make Honey Baked Ham
- 1 (8 – 10 lb) fully cooked spiral sliced ham
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 Tbsp dijon mustard
- 3/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp fresh orange zest (optional)
- 1 oven bag
How to Cook Honey Baked Ham Step by Step
To begin, leave the ham’s plastic or foil covering intact, placing it in a large container or a clean sink that can hold water well. You will need to cover the ham with hot tap water and let it rest for about 45 minutes. After that, drain the water and cover the ham with hot tap water a second time, allowing it to rest for another 45 minutes.
When you’re nearing the end of the second rest, adjust your oven rack to the lowest position and preheat your oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit. Unwrap the ham and remove the plastic disk from the bottom of the bone. Next, place the ham into the oven bag and wrap the bag neatly around the ham. Tie the bag securely and cut away any excess plastic on top, making sure to cut four small slits in the top of the bag.
Set the ham cut-side down in a large roasting pan and bake it in your preheated oven. You want to bake until the center of the ham registers 100 degrees Fahrenheit on an instant-read thermometer, which should take about 1 to 1.5 hours, or roughly 10 minutes per pound.
Meanwhile, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add in the brown sugar, honey, dijon mustard, freshly ground black pepper, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and ground cloves. Cook the mixture while whisking constantly until the sugar has dissolved, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in the optional orange zest, letting the mixture cool until it’s about the consistency of honey. If it thickens too much as it cools, you can rewarm the glaze when you’re ready to use it.
Once the ham has reached the desired temperature, remove it from the oven. Increase the oven temperature to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Carefully cut open the oven bag and roll it down to expose the ham. Brush half of the glaze all over the exposed surface of the ham. Bake the ham for an additional five minutes, then remove it and brush it with the remaining glaze. Return the ham to the oven for another 10 minutes, allowing the glaze to caramelize beautifully.
When it’s finished, take the ham out of the oven. Tent it loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for about 10 minutes before carving and serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful ham.
how to make Honey Baked Ham
Cooking Honey Baked Ham is not only straightforward but also rewarding. Each step adds layers of flavor that transform a simple ham into a gourmet dish perfect for any gathering. Begin by soaking the ham in hot water, which helps in achieving a tender texture.
After your ham gets the right amount of warmth and you prepare the glaze, the combination of honey and brown sugar elevates the dish significantly. It creates a beautiful glaze that makes the ham not only taste great but look incredibly inviting.
As you brush the glaze over the ham before the final baking step, feel free to make it as generous as you like. The layers of sweetness that form will give the ham a beautiful caramelized finish that everyone will enjoy. Finally, don’t shy away from serving up the scraps left on the cutting board; they are often the most flavorful parts!
how to serve Honey Baked Ham
Serving Honey Baked Ham is an opportunity to showcase the dish beautifully on your dining table. Once the ham has rested, it’s time to carve. Use a sharp knife to slice along the seams if you have a spiral-sliced ham, or carve it into even portions for a whole ham.
Arrange the slices on a large platter, showcasing each piece’s glossy glaze. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the top for added flavor and presentation. To elevate your serving style, consider adding garnishes like fresh herbs, such as rosemary or parsley, or slices of citrus fruits for a pop of color.
When serving, remember to provide tongs or a large serving fork for guests to help themselves. This dish is often served warm, but it can also be enjoyed at room temperature, making it versatile for different meal settings.
what to serve with Honey Baked Ham
Pairing sides with Honey Baked Ham is essential for a well-rounded meal. Many traditional sides complement the ham’s sweet and savory profile beautifully. Consider serving it alongside fluffy mashed potatoes or creamy scalloped potatoes for a comforting touch.
Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or green beans, add freshness and texture to the plate. Sweet sides like glazed carrots or cornbread can enhance the sweetness of the ham.
For a refreshing contrast, a tangy coleslaw or a light salad can break up the richness of the dish. Providing a well-balanced selection of flavors will please your guests and create a memorable dining experience.
how to store Honey Baked Ham
Storing Honey Baked Ham properly is crucial to maintaining its flavors and extending its shelf life. If you have leftovers, allow the ham to cool completely at room temperature before storing it.
Wrap the sliced or whole ham tightly in aluminum foil, or use an airtight container to keep air out. It’s best to store the ham in the refrigerator if you plan to consume it within a few days. Properly stored, it can last anywhere from 3 to 5 days in the fridge.
If you want to keep the ham for a longer period, consider freezing it. Wrap the ham securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. When stored in the freezer, it can last for up to 6 months. Be sure to thaw frozen ham in the refrigerator before reheating.
tips to make Honey Baked Ham
To get the best results with your Honey Baked Ham, consider a few helpful tips. First, always choose a high-quality, fully cooked ham for the best flavor and convenience. Spiral-sliced options make for easy serving and cooking.
Be generous with the glaze; not only does it enhance the flavor, but it also adds a beautiful golden color. If you like a thicker glaze, you can increase the cooking time of the glaze mixture on the stove, allowing it to thicken further.
During baking, keep an eye on the internal temperature, especially when increasing the oven temperature at the end. Use an instant-read thermometer and avoid overcooking to prevent drying out. Lastly, let the ham rest after you remove it from the oven, as this step ensures juiciness upon serving.
variation
While the classic Honey Baked Ham recipe is always delicious, there are some variations to keep things interesting. For a spicy kick, consider adding cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the glaze.
Alternatively, you could incorporate different types of mustard, like whole grain, for a unique flavor twist. Using different herbs like thyme or rosemary can infuse additional layers of flavor into the glaze.
For a fruity variation, try adding apple cider or pineapple juice to the glaze mix. The sweetness balances well with the spices, creating a new dimension to the dish. Feel free to experiment to discover your preferred flavor profile!
best time to make Honey Baked Ham
Honey Baked Ham is ideal for various occasions, primarily during holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. It serves as a centerpiece that brings families together with its delightful taste and aroma.
Outside of the holidays, you can also make it for special events such as birthdays, family reunions, or potluck gatherings. It is a fantastic choice when feeding a large group, as everyone loves the comforting flavors.
Additionally, don’t hesitate to prepare ham for a casual Sunday dinner. Enjoying this dish any time can elevate your meal and make it feel special.
common mistakes to avoid
While making Honey Baked Ham is straightforward, there are common mistakes to watch out for. One mistake is not checking the internal temperature often enough. Undercooked ham may be unsafe, while overcooked ham can turn dry and less enjoyable.
Another common mistake is rushing the glazing process. Allow enough time for the glaze to develop flavors without burning or thickening too quickly. Also, many people forget to let the ham rest after cooking, which is crucial for maintaining moisture.
Lastly, using a low-quality ham can negatively affect the overall taste. It’s always best to invest in a good-quality fully cooked spiral ham for the best results.
nutritional notes
Honey Baked Ham can be a flavorful part of your meals, but it’s important to consider nutritional content. The primary ingredient, ham, is a good source of protein and essential B vitamins. However, it also tends to be high in sodium, so moderation is key.
The glaze, which contains sugar and honey, adds extra calories while providing sweetness. For those who are watching their sugar intake or sodium levels, you might want to be moderate with the glaze application.
Using fresh ingredients, like fresh orange zest and spices, can help elevate the dish’s nutritional profile by providing antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals without significantly impacting calorie count.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of ham?
Yes, you can use different types of ham, like a bone-in or whole ham. Just adjust the cooking time based on the size of the ham you choose.
2. How do I reheat leftover ham?
To reheat, place the ham in a baking dish, cover it with foil, and warm it in a preheated oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through, usually about 15-20 minutes.
3. Can I make the glaze in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it slightly before applying it to the ham.
conclusion
Honey Baked Ham is an easy and rewarding dish that anyone can make. With its sweet and savory glaze, it brings a delightful flavor that everyone can enjoy. Whether for a special occasion or a comforting family meal, it promises to be a hit.
Follow the straightforward steps outlined here, and you will have a beautiful and delicious ham to serve. With the right side dishes and a well-set table, your Honey Baked Ham will surely impress, making every meal feel special and memorable.
