Why Make This Recipe
Honey glazed ham is a showstopper at any gathering. Its sweet, sticky glaze and succulent meat create a delightful combination that pleases many palates. The aroma that fills your kitchen while it cooks is simply irresistible.
This dish is not only delicious but also very easy to prepare. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can create a masterpiece that will impress family and friends. Perfect for holidays or any special occasion, honey glazed ham deserves a place on your table.
Equipment Needed for Honey Glazed Ham
Before you start cooking, gather the equipment necessary for making honey glazed ham. You’ll want to ensure you have everything on hand to streamline your cooking process.
You’ll need a roasting pan to hold the ham during cooking. A basting brush is essential for applying the honey glaze. Additionally, using a meat thermometer will help ensure that the ham is cooked to perfection. You may also consider a sharp knife for slicing the ham once it’s cooked.
What You Need to Make Honey Glazed Ham
- 8 pounds spiral-cut ham* (fully cooked, unsmoked or smoked)
- ¼ cup salted butter (melted (½ stick))
- 4 tablespoons honey mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey**
- 2 teaspoons whole grain mustard
- 1½ cups apple cider (not apple cider vinegar!)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon table salt
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg (or ½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg)
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¾ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground allspice
- ½ teaspoon sweet paprika
How to Cook Honey Glazed Ham Step by Step
To start, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This temperature is ideal for heating the ham without drying it out. Once the oven is preheated, take your spiral-cut ham and place it in the roasting pan. Pour the apple cider over the ham to keep it moist during the cooking process.
Next, create the glaze. In a separate bowl, combine melted butter, honey mustard, honey, whole grain mustard, sugar, salt, nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, and sweet paprika. Whisk these ingredients together until they are fully blended into a smooth mixture.
Now, generously brush some of the glaze mixture over the ham. Ensure that the glaze seeps into the cuts of the ham for maximum flavor. Reserve some of the glaze for later basting. Place the ham in the preheated oven uncovered and cook for approximately 15 minutes per pound.
As the ham cooks, take the reserved glaze and baste the ham every 30 minutes. This will add flavor and enhance the glossy finish of the dish. Continue cooking until the internal temperature of the ham reaches 140°F (60°C) on a meat thermometer.
Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 20 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is juicy and flavorful.
When ready, use a sharp knife to slice the ham. Serve warm, allowing guests to enjoy the perfectly glazed, tender meat.
How to Serve Honey Glazed Ham
Serving honey glazed ham can be as simple or elegant as you prefer. For a casual gathering, simply place the glazed ham on a large serving platter and let guests help themselves.
If you want to elevate your presentation, arrange the slices nicely on the plate and drizzle a bit more glaze over the top. Feel free to garnish the platter with fresh herbs or slices of orange for a pop of color.
Don’t forget to provide plenty of toothpicks or small serving utensils for easy sampling. Everyone will appreciate the opportunity to enjoy this delectable dish.
What to Serve with Honey Glazed Ham
Honey glazed ham pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Traditional choices include creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy dinner rolls, which help soak up the sweet glaze.
Additionally, consider offering roasted vegetables, particularly Brussels sprouts, green beans, or carrots, to add a fresh element to your meal. A light salad can also complement the dish perfectly, providing a balance to the rich flavors of the ham.
If you’re serving guests for a holiday celebration, consider adding macaroni and cheese or cornbread to round out the meal. These comforting sides go exceptionally well with the sweetness of the ham.
How to Store Honey Glazed Ham
Once your honey glazed ham is enjoyed, proper storage is vital for keeping the leftovers fresh. Allow any remaining ham to cool completely before storing.
Wrap the ham tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to keep out air. Place it in an airtight container to preserve the flavors and moisture. Refrigerated ham can be stored for up to a week. If you have a lot of leftovers, consider slicing the ham into portions for easier serving later.
You can also freeze the ham if you want to keep it longer. Slice it up and store it in an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Frozen ham will retain its quality for up to three months if stored properly.
Tips to Make Honey Glazed Ham
Making honey glazed ham is straightforward, but here are a few tips to ensure the best outcome. First, choose a high-quality ham for optimal flavor. A spiral-cut ham can make slicing easier and add to the presentation.
When preparing the glaze, adjust the sweetness to your preference. You can add more honey or reduce some sugar, depending on your taste. Also, don’t skip the basting step; it makes a significant difference in achieving a flavorful and moist ham.
If time allows, consider soaking the ham in apple cider overnight for added flavor. This will enhance the overall taste and create a juicy texture.
Variation
You can easily experiment with honey glazed ham. Try adding different spices to the glaze, like cayenne pepper for a hint of heat, or adding fresh herbs for added depth. This spice variation offers an interesting flavor twist that can surprise your guests.
Additionally, consider using different types of mustard to change the overall flavor profile. For a more robust taste, a spicy brown mustard can work well. For those who prefer a milder flavor, you might choose Dijon mustard.
Best Time to Make Honey Glazed Ham
Honey glazed ham is a versatile dish that shines during holidays. It’s especially popular at Thanksgiving and Easter. However, it can be a delightful centerpiece for any gathering, such as family reunions, birthdays, or festive dinners.
You might also enjoy making this dish for casual dinners. The sweetness of the glaze can brighten any weeknight meal and make it special. Plan to prepare it when you want to create a memorable experience for your family and friends.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While making honey glazed ham is simple, some pitfalls can affect the final dish. One common mistake is overcooking the ham. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure it is cooked to the right temperature, preventing dryness.
Another error is not allowing the ham to rest after cooking. This will lead to a less juicy ham, as the juices need time to settle back into the meat.
Finally, avoid using apple cider vinegar instead of apple cider. The vinegar can overpower the sweetness of the glaze, resulting in an unbalanced flavor.
Nutritional Notes
Honey glazed ham can be an appealing choice for a festive meal, but it’s essential to be mindful of its nutritional aspects. Ham can be high in sodium, so monitoring your salt intake is wise. Also, the sugar used in the glaze adds calories, so consider this if you’re watching your sugar content.
Balanced with healthy side dishes, honey glazed ham can fit in a nutritious diet. Enjoy it alongside fresh vegetables to create a wholesome meal.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of ham?
Yes, you can use a different type of ham, but ensure it’s fully cooked. Bone-in or boneless ham can also work, just adjust cooking time as needed.
Can I make the glaze in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just warm it up before using.
How do I reheat leftover ham?
Reheat the ham in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until it’s heated through to prevent drying it out. You can cover it with foil to retain moisture.
Conclusion
Honey glazed ham is a classic dish that brings warmth and joy to any meal. Its enjoyable flavors and ease of preparation make it suitable for any occasion, from holidays to casual dinners. With the right ingredients and a bit of care, you can create a ham that leaves everyone asking for seconds.
Gather your loved ones, prepare this delicious ham, and make memories over a beautiful meal. Enjoy the process, experiment with your variations, and share the joy of honey glazed ham with those around you.
