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There’s something undeniably festive about the sight and aroma of a perfectly glazed ham on the holiday table. With its caramelized exterior and juicy, flavorful interior, a honey glazed ham isn’t just a dish; it’s a celebration in itself.

Whether it’s for Christmas, Easter, or a family gathering, this recipe is sure to steal the show. Read on to learn how to create the ultimate honey glazed ham, along with tips, variations, and answers to your most pressing questions.

Why This Recipe Is a Crowd-Pleaser

A honey glazed ham is more than just delicious; it’s also convenient and versatile. Because it’s precooked, most of the effort is in the glazing and heating. The honey-based glaze creates a sweet, tangy, and slightly sticky coating that perfectly complements the salty, savory ham.

This recipe has been a staple at countless gatherings, and for good reason: it’s easy to make, feeds a crowd, and looks stunning on the table.

Cooking Tips for a Perfect Honey Glazed Ham

Cooking a honey glazed ham might seem intimidating, but these tips will ensure you get it right every time:

1. Choose the Right Ham:
   • Opt for a bone-in ham for the best flavor and presentation.
   • If you prefer a spiralized ham, make sure to adjust the cooking time to prevent it from drying out.
2. Keep It Moist:
   • Add water or apple juice to the roasting pan to create steam, which helps keep the ham juicy.
   • Cover the ham with foil during the initial baking stage to lock in moisture.
3. Use a Meat Thermometer:
   • Check the internal temperature of the ham. It should reach 140°F (60°C) when fully reheated.
4. Layer the Glaze:
   • Apply the glaze in layers during the last hour of baking. This allows it to build up and caramelize without burning.
5. Rest Before Slicing:
   • Let the ham rest for 15-20 minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute.

Serving Suggestions

A honey glazed ham pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it the star of any meal. Here are some ideas to round out your table:

• Classic Sides: Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green bean casserole, and cornbread are traditional accompaniments.
• Fresh Options: Add a light touch with a crisp green salad or a citrus fruit salad.
• Festive Touches: Serve with cranberry sauce, spiced apples, or glazed carrots for a seasonal flair.
• Breads: Warm dinner rolls or biscuits are perfect for soaking up the glaze.

To make your presentation even more festive, garnish the ham with pineapple rings, maraschino cherries, or fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme.

Recipe Variations

One of the best things about this honey glazed ham recipe is how customizable it is. Here are some variations to suit your tastes:

1. Maple-Glazed Ham:
   • Replace the honey with maple syrup for a deeper, richer flavor.
2. Spicy Kick:
   • Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the glaze for a hint of heat.
3. Citrus Twist:
   • Mix in orange or pineapple juice with the glaze ingredients for a tangy, tropical flavor.
4. Herb-Infused:
   • Add fresh rosemary or thyme to the glaze for an earthy, aromatic note.
5. Bourbon Glaze:
   • Stir in a splash of bourbon to the glaze for a sophisticated depth of flavor.

Storage Tips

Leftover honey glazed ham is a gift that keeps on giving. Here’s how to store it properly:

1. Refrigerate:
   • Wrap leftovers tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
2. Freeze:
   • Slice the ham and store it in freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.
3. Reheat:
   • To reheat, cover the ham with foil and warm in a 325°F oven until heated through. For smaller portions, use the microwave or stovetop.
4. Repurpose:
   • Use leftovers in sandwiches, soups, omelets, or casseroles.

FAQs About Honey Glazed Ham

1. Do I have to use a spiralized ham?

• No, you can use a whole bone-in ham if you prefer. Spiralized hams are precut for convenience but require extra care to prevent drying. (see the section below the recipe on how to adjust when using spiralized ham)

2. Can I make the Ham glaze ahead of time?

• Absolutely! Prepare the glaze up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before using.

3. What if I don’t have a roasting pan?

• Use a large baking dish and create a makeshift rack with rolled-up aluminum foil or a wire cooling rack.

4. How do I prevent the glaze from burning?

• Keep a close eye on the ham during the glazing stage and tent it with foil if the glaze starts to brown too quickly.

5. What sides go best with honey glazed ham?

• Classic sides like mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and dinner rolls pair wonderfully with the sweet and savory flavors of the ham.

Adjustments for a Spiralized Ham

1. Preparation:
   • Spiralized hams are already precut, so there’s no need to score the surface. However, you may still choose to add cloves to individual slices for flavor if desired.
2. Initial Baking:
   • Reduce the baking time slightly during the first stage (baking covered) because the pre-sliced ham exposes more surface area to heat. Check for an internal temperature of 120°F (49°C) before moving to the glazing step.
3. Covering:
   • To retain moisture, wrap the ham tightly in aluminum foil for the initial baking. You can also add 1/2 cup of water or apple juice to the bottom of the pan for extra steam.
4. Glazing:
   • When applying the glaze, ensure that it gets between the slices. Use a spoon or pastry brush to coat the individual slices lightly, as this adds flavor throughout the ham.
5. Final Baking:
   • Reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) for the glazing phase. Spiralized hams are more prone to drying out, so keep a close eye on them during this stage.
   • Tent the ham loosely with foil if you notice the edges browning too quickly.
6. Resting:
   • After baking, let the ham rest for at least 15 minutes while covered with foil. This step allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more succulent.

Why the Adjustments Matter

• Drying Prevention: The slices in a spiralized ham increase surface exposure, making it more susceptible to drying. Wrapping in foil and reducing the baking time are essential to counteract this.
• Glaze Distribution: Spiralized hams allow the glaze to penetrate deeper, but it requires effort to ensure even application.
• Temperature Control: Lower baking temperatures and shorter cooking times help maintain the ham’s juiciness while still achieving a caramelized glaze.

Conclusion

A honey glazed ham is the perfect centerpiece for any celebration. Its rich, caramelized glaze and juicy interior make it a dish that’s as impressive as it is delicious. With these tips, variations, and serving suggestions, you’ll be able to create a meal that’s sure to delight your guests and leave them asking for seconds (and the recipe!).

So roll up your sleeves, preheat the oven, and get ready to make a ham that’s truly unforgettable.