As the holidays approach, nothing brings family to the table like the aroma of a perfectly glazed ham wafting through the kitchen. A timeless centerpiece for Christmas, Easter, and other special gatherings, this sweet and savory ham is as nostalgic as it is delicious. With a sticky brown sugar and honey glaze, it’s the kind of dish that tastes like tradition.
What Makes Glazed Ham So Special?
A glazed ham is more than just a main course—it’s a symbol of celebration. It dates back centuries, symbolizing abundance during the winter solstice and holiday feasts across Europe and America. That irresistible combo of salty ham and a caramelized, sweet glaze creates a comforting balance that makes this dish unforgettable.
Choosing the Right Ham
When it comes to choosing a ham for glazing, consider these tips:
- Bone-In vs. Boneless: Bone-in hams are more flavorful and rustic, while boneless hams are easy to slice and great for smaller groups.
- Serving Size: Plan for about ½ pound per person.
- Quality Check: Look for a rich pink color, light marbling, and a slightly sweet, smoky aroma.
Ideal Characteristics:
| Characteristic | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Color | Deep pink or reddish-pink |
| Marbling | Even fat throughout |
| Texture | Firm with slight give |
| Aroma | Mild, slightly sweet and smoky |
Ingredients for Classic Glaze
To create a honey and brown sugar glaze with nostalgic charm, you’ll need:
Base Ingredients:
- ½ cup honey
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground cloves
Optional Additions:
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp ground ginger
How to Prepare and Glaze the Ham
Step 1: Prep the Ham
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, about ¼ inch deep.
- Trim excess fat, leaving a thin layer for flavor.
- Place ham in a roasting pan, cut side down.
Step 2: Make the Glaze
In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the honey, brown sugar, and water until smooth. Remove from heat, stir in mustard and spices, and let cool slightly.
Step 3: Bake the Ham
- Cover with foil and bake for 12-15 minutes per pound (for bone-in) or 10-12 minutes per pound (for boneless).
- Baste with juices every 30 minutes.
- In the final 30 minutes, brush glaze over ham, then continue baking uncovered until golden and caramelized.
- Internal temp should reach 140°F (60°C).
Glaze Variations
Want to try something new? Here are a few nostalgic glaze options that bring a different kind of comfort:
- Pineapple-Bourbon Glaze: Tropical meets bold for a fruity, warm flavor.
- Maple-Mustard Glaze: Rich maple sweetness balanced with tangy mustard.
- Orange-Spice Glaze: Bright and festive with citrus and holiday spices.
Presentation Tips
Carve the ham into even slices and arrange on a platter. Garnish with:
- Fresh rosemary or parsley
- Citrus slices or pineapple rings
- Pair with dinner rolls for holiday sliders
Set the platter on a rustic board or festive tray—this glazed ham is a showstopper on any holiday table.
FAQs
What makes a glazed ham special?
Its sweet, sticky glaze contrasts the savory ham beautifully—perfect for festive occasions.
What are key glaze ingredients?
Brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and warm spices like cloves and cinnamon.
How do I prepare a ham before glazing?
Score the ham, trim excess fat, and partially bake before glazing to ensure even caramelization.
What’s the ideal internal temp for cooked ham?
140°F (60°C) for fully cooked ham.
Final Thoughts
This classic glazed ham recipe is a celebration in every slice. Whether you’re honoring family tradition or starting a new one, its cozy, festive flavor is sure to become a cherished favorite.
Printable Recipe Card
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 2–2.5 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 30 mins
Serves: 10–12
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American Holiday Classic
Ingredients
For the Ham:
- 1 bone-in ham (8–10 lbs)
- Whole cloves (optional, for garnish)
Classic Honey-Brown Sugar Glaze:
- ½ cup honey
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup water
- 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground cloves
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp ground ginger
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Place ham fat side up in a roasting pan.
- Score the surface in a crosshatch pattern (¼ inch deep). Optionally, insert whole cloves into each diamond.
- Pre-bake ham uncovered for 45 minutes.
- Make the glaze: In a saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, and water. Simmer until smooth. Stir in mustard, cinnamon, cloves, and any optional flavor boosters.
- Glaze the ham: Brush a layer of glaze over the ham. Continue baking, basting every 20 minutes.
- Final bake: Bake until internal temperature reaches 140°F (about 12–15 minutes per pound). Apply glaze one final time during the last 30 minutes.
- Rest: Let ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Serving Tips
Garnish with rosemary, orange slices, or pineapple rings. Pair with roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or warm rolls for a holiday-worthy meal.
Glaze Variations
- Pineapple-Bourbon: Swap honey for pineapple juice + 1 Tbsp bourbon
- Maple-Mustard: Use maple syrup and add extra mustard
- Orange-Spice: Add orange zest + nutmeg to glaze
🔁 Storage Tips
- Fridge: Store leftovers up to 5 days
- Freezer: Slice and freeze up to 2 months
- Reheat: Warm covered in oven at 300°F with a splash of broth or water
Save This Glazed Ham for Your Next Holiday Dinner!
#GlazedHam #HolidayRecipes #EasterHam #ChristmasDinner #BakedHam #HamGlaze #GrandmaRecipesFlash
