Name: Honey Glazed Ham Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 2 h 30 min
Total time: 2 h 40 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 lb spiral cut ham; ½ cup butter; 1 cup brown sugar; ½ cup honey; 1 tbsp dijon mustard; ½ tsp Cinnamon; pinch nutmeg; pinch cloves; pinch allspice; Cooking spray; herbs and fruit

Indulge in a mouthwatering delight with this honey glazed ham. Perfectly caramelized and sweetened to perfection, this dish is ideal for holiday feasts or special gatherings.

Photos of Honey Glazed Ham Recipe

While most of these ingredients are pantry staples, some might be less common. Ensure you have dijon mustard, cloves, and allspice on your shopping list, as they add crucial depth to the glaze.

Ingredients for Honey Glazed Ham Recipe

spiral cut ham: The centerpiece of the dish, already pre-sliced for easy serving.

butter: Adds richness and helps the glaze adhere to the ham.

brown sugar: Provides a deep, molasses-like sweetness.

honey: The star ingredient, giving the glaze its distinctive sweet flavor.

dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang and complexity to the glaze.

cinnamon: Infuses the glaze with warm, aromatic notes.

nutmeg: Adds a hint of spice and depth to the flavor profile.

cloves: Imparts a rich, slightly sweet and peppery taste.

allspice: Brings a robust blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove flavors to the mix.

cooking spray: Prevents the ham from sticking to the pan.

herbs and fruit: For garnishing, adding a fresh and festive touch.

One reader, Joelle Hough says:

This honey glazed ham recipe is fantastic! The glaze is perfectly sweet and flavorful, and the ham turns out juicy and tender. It's a hit at every family gathering. Highly recommend!

Joelle Hough

Key Techniques for Preparing Honey Glazed Ham

How to make a glaze: Combine butter, brown sugar, honey, mustard, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice in a pan over medium heat. Simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture becomes syrupy.

How to bake a ham: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F, place the ham in a baking pan, pour half of the glaze over it, cover with foil, and bake for 2 hours. Uncover, pour the remaining glaze, increase the oven temperature to 400 degrees F, and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until caramelized.

How to garnish: Transfer the ham to a serving platter, garnish with fresh herbs and fruit, and spoon pan drippings over the ham before slicing and serving.

How To Make Honey Glazed Ham

This ever so sweet and tender honey glazed ham is surely the star of the night once you serve it over parties and gatherings!

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 2 hours 30 minutes

Total: 2 hours 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

8lbspiral cut ham,bone in
½cupbutter
1cupbrown sugar
½cuphoney
1tbspdijon mustard
½tspcinnamon
pinchnutmeg
pinchcloves
pinchallspice
cooking spray
herbs and fruit,fresh for garnish, optional

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a baking pan with cooking spray.
Add the butter, brown sugar, honey, mustard, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and allspice to a pan. Place the pan over medium heat.
Bring the pan to a simmer and cook for 3 to 5 minutes or until glaze is syrupy.
Place the ham in the pan and pour half of the glaze over it. Cover the ham tightly with foil. Reserve the other half of the glaze for later use.
Bake the ham for 2 hours. Uncover the ham.
Pour the remaining half of the glaze over the ham. If the glaze has started to harden, you can microwave it for 30 seconds to loosen it back up.
Increase the oven temperature to 400 degrees F.
Place the ham, uncovered, in the oven. Bake for another 15 to 20 minutes or until glaze is caramelized and browned.
Transfer the ham to a serving platter and garnish with fresh herbs and fruit. Spoon pan drippings over the ham. Slice the ham, then serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 698.51kcal
Fat: 37.70g
Saturated Fat: 14.09g
Trans Fat: 0.31g
Monounsaturated Fat: 17.51g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.77g
Carbohydrates: 38.83g
Fiber: 5.57g
Sugar: 23.42g
Protein: 50.75g
Cholesterol: 192.70mg
Sodium: 3482.26mg
Calcium: 156.29mg
Potassium: 930.90mg
Iron: 7.54mg
Vitamin A: 71.28µg
Vitamin C: 13.87mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Honey Glazed Ham

When preparing the glaze, make sure to continuously stir the mixture to prevent the sugar from burning and to ensure a smooth, even consistency.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Honey Glazed Ham Recipe

Prepare the glaze ahead: Make the glaze a day before and store it in the fridge. This will save you time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-cut ham: Opt for a spiral cut ham to avoid the hassle of slicing it yourself.

Microwave the glaze: If the glaze hardens, microwave it for 30 seconds to quickly loosen it up.

Line the pan: Use aluminum foil to line the baking pan for easy cleanup.

Pre-measure spices: Measure out all spices in advance and store them in small containers.

Substitute Ingredients For Honey Glazed Ham Recipe

spiral cut ham - Substitute with pork loin roast: Pork loin roast is a leaner cut but can be similarly glazed and roasted to achieve a comparable flavor and texture.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can provide a similar fat content and consistency, making it a suitable replacement for butter in the glaze.
brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a similar sweetness and caramel-like flavor, making it a good alternative to brown sugar.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup has a similar viscosity and sweetness, providing a comparable glaze for the ham.
dijon mustard - Substitute with whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard offers a similar tangy flavor and texture, making it a suitable replacement for dijon mustard.
cinnamon - Substitute with allspice: Allspice has a similar warm, sweet flavor profile, making it a good alternative to cinnamon.
nutmeg - Substitute with mace: Mace has a flavor profile very similar to nutmeg, making it an excellent substitute.
cloves - Substitute with star anise: Star anise provides a similar warm, spicy flavor, making it a suitable replacement for cloves.
allspice - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice contains a blend of spices including allspice, making it a good alternative.
cooking spray - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used to grease the pan, providing a similar non-stick effect as cooking spray.
herbs and fruit - Substitute with dried herbs and dried fruit: Dried herbs and fruit can provide similar flavors and aromas, making them good substitutes for fresh herbs and fruit.

Presentation Tips for a Stunning Honey Glazed Ham

Select a pristine serving platter: Choose a large, elegant serving platter that complements the colors of the ham and garnishes. A white or neutral-colored platter works best to highlight the vibrant hues of the glaze and herbs.
Arrange the ham artfully: Place the spiral cut ham in the center of the platter, fanning out the slices slightly to showcase the beautiful spiral cuts. This not only makes it easier for guests to serve themselves but also adds a visual appeal.
Garnish with fresh herbs and fruit: Surround the ham with a variety of fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Add colorful fruits like orange slices, pomegranate seeds, and cranberries to create a festive and inviting presentation.
Drizzle with pan drippings: Just before serving, spoon the warm pan drippings over the ham to give it a glossy finish. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful sheen to the presentation.
Serve with complementary sides: Pair the honey glazed ham with elegant side dishes such as roasted vegetables, a mixed green salad, and a selection of artisanal breads. Arrange these sides around the main platter to create a cohesive and luxurious dining experience.
Use elegant serving utensils: Provide high-quality serving utensils that match the sophistication of the dish. Silver or gold-toned utensils can add a touch of elegance and make the serving process smoother for your guests.
Add a final touch of glaze: If desired, warm up any remaining glaze and drizzle a small amount over the ham just before presenting it to the table. This will enhance the caramelized look and ensure every slice is packed with flavor.
Create a balanced composition: Ensure that the platter has a balanced composition with an even distribution of ham, herbs, and fruits. This attention to detail will make the dish visually appealing from every angle.
Highlight the caramelization: Make sure the caramelized and browned parts of the ham are prominently displayed. This not only showcases your culinary skills but also entices guests with the promise of rich, savory flavors.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Honey Glazed Ham

Baking pan: A large, shallow pan used to hold the ham while it bakes in the oven.
Cooking spray: Used to coat the baking pan to prevent the ham from sticking.
Medium saucepan: Used to combine and heat the butter, brown sugar, honey, mustard, and spices to create the glaze.
Foil: Used to cover the ham while it bakes to keep it moist.
Microwave: Optional, used to reheat the glaze if it hardens before the second application.
Oven: Used to bake the ham at different temperatures to achieve the perfect glaze.
Serving platter: Used to present the ham once it is fully cooked and glazed.
Basting brush: Used to apply the glaze evenly over the ham.
Knife: Used to slice the ham before serving.
Cutting board: Used as a surface to slice the ham.
Spoon: Used to spoon the pan drippings over the ham for added flavor.
Herbs and fruit: Used for garnishing the ham on the serving platter.

Storing and Freezing Honey Glazed Ham: A Guide

Let the honey glazed ham cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help prevent the ham from drying out and keep it fresh for longer.
Store the leftover honey glazed ham in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to keep it in the coldest part of the fridge, which is usually the back.
If you want to freeze the leftover honey glazed ham, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then place it in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Frozen honey glazed ham can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you're ready to eat it, thaw the ham in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
To reheat the honey glazed ham, place it in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for about 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
If you're reheating a smaller portion of the honey glazed ham, you can also use the microwave. Place the ham in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat it on high for 1-2 minutes per serving, or until it's heated through.

How To Reheat Leftover Honey Glazed Ham

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Bake for about 10 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C). This method helps retain moisture and prevents the ham from drying out.
For a quicker option, use a microwave. Place a slice of ham on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on the thickness of the slice. This method is best for individual portions.
If you have a steamer basket, you can use it to reheat the ham. Fill a pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a boil. Place the ham in the steamer basket and cover the pot. Steam for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps keep the ham moist and tender.
For a crispy exterior, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil and place the ham slices in the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until heated through and slightly crispy. This method works well for smaller portions and adds a nice texture to the ham.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat the ham. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the ham slices in the basket and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. This method is quick and helps crisp up the edges of the ham.

Interesting Trivia About Honey Glazed Ham

A fun fact about this honey glazed ham recipe is that the combination of honey and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice not only adds a rich, sweet flavor but also creates a beautiful caramelized crust when baked at a higher temperature.

Is Making Honey Glazed Ham at Home Cost-Effective?

When considering the cost-effectiveness of this honey glazed ham recipe, it is important to note that an 8 lb spiral cut ham can serve a household of 4 people with leftovers. The additional ingredients like butter, brown sugar, and honey are relatively inexpensive and often already present in most kitchens. Fresh herbs and fruit for garnish add a touch of elegance without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost in USD: $30-$40.

Is Honey Glazed Ham Healthy or Unhealthy?

The honey glazed ham recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

High in fat: The recipe calls for a significant amount of butter, which is high in saturated fat. Consuming too much saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease and other health problems.
Sugar overload: Brown sugar and honey are the main ingredients in the glaze, making this dish very high in sugar. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to weight gain, diabetes, and other health issues.
Sodium content: Ham is often high in sodium, and this recipe doesn't do much to mitigate that. High sodium intake can contribute to hypertension and other cardiovascular problems.
Lack of nutrients: While ham does provide some protein, this recipe is lacking in essential vitamins and minerals that are crucial for a balanced diet.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of butter used in the glaze, or replace it with a healthier alternative like olive oil.
Cut back on the brown sugar and honey, or substitute them with natural sweeteners like maple syrup or date syrup, which have a lower glycemic index.
Use a low-sodium ham to reduce the overall sodium content of the dish.
Serve the ham with a variety of nutrient-dense side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, leafy greens, or whole grains, to balance out the meal and add essential vitamins and minerals.
Instead of basting the ham with the glaze throughout the cooking process, consider brushing it on only during the last 30 minutes of baking to minimize the amount of sugar that caramelizes on the surface of the meat.

Editor's Opinion on This Delectable Honey Glazed Ham

This honey glazed ham recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for any festive occasion. The combination of honey, brown sugar, and spices creates a rich, aromatic glaze that beautifully complements the ham. The step of increasing the oven temperature to caramelize the glaze adds a wonderful depth of flavor and an appealing finish. Garnishing with fresh herbs and fruit not only enhances the presentation but also adds a fresh contrast to the rich glaze. Overall, this recipe is well-balanced and sure to impress your guests.

Enhance Your Honey Glazed Ham Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the earthy crunch of Brussels sprouts perfectly roasted to a golden brown, then drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. This side dish adds a delightful contrast to the sweet and savory notes of the honey glazed ham.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes infused with the rich aroma of garlic make for a comforting companion to your main course. The smooth texture and subtle flavor will balance the boldness of the ham.

Cranberry Walnut Salad: A refreshing salad featuring crisp greens, tart cranberries, and crunchy walnuts. Tossed in a light vinaigrette, this dish adds a burst of color and a zesty bite to your meal.

Sweet Potato Casserole: Indulge in the creamy, sweet, and slightly spiced goodness of sweet potatoes topped with a crunchy pecan streusel. This casserole brings a comforting sweetness that complements the honey glazed ham perfectly.

Butternut Squash Soup: Warm up with a velvety butternut squash soup that boasts a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon. This silky soup adds a cozy, autumnal touch to your festive spread.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Honey Glazed Ham

Maple Glazed Pork Loin: Indulge in the rich flavors of a maple glazed pork loin. This dish features a succulent pork loin roasted to perfection and coated with a sweet and savory maple syrup glaze. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Orange Marmalade Glazed Chicken: Experience the zesty delight of orange marmalade glazed chicken. Tender chicken breasts are baked with a tangy orange marmalade glaze, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory. Pair it with a fresh green salad for a refreshing dinner.

Brown Sugar Baked Ham: Savor the classic taste of brown sugar baked ham. This recipe involves baking a juicy ham with a rich brown sugar glaze that caramelizes beautifully. Garnish with pineapple slices and cherries for a festive presentation.

Apple Cider Glazed Turkey: Delight in the autumnal flavors of apple cider glazed turkey. A whole turkey is roasted with a glaze made from apple cider, brown sugar, and herbs. This dish is perfect for a holiday feast or a special family dinner.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Enjoy a healthy and flavorful side dish with balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts. These Brussels sprouts are roasted until crispy and then tossed in a tangy balsamic glaze. They make a perfect accompaniment to any main course.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Honey Glazed Ham

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start your meal. Imagine cremini mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The breadcrumbs on top add a satisfying crunch, while the Parmesan cheese melts into a golden crust. These bite-sized treats are perfect for setting the stage for your honey glazed ham.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that never fails to impress. Picture slices of toasted baguette topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. A drizzle of balsamic glaze and a sprinkle of sea salt elevate the flavors, making each bite a burst of freshness. This simple yet elegant starter pairs wonderfully with the rich, sweet notes of your main course.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a decadent chocolate lava cake with a molten center that oozes rich, velvety chocolate as you cut into it. This dessert is a showstopper, perfect for impressing guests at any gathering. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the intense chocolate flavor. Garnish with fresh berries and a sprig of mint for a touch of elegance.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Consider a zesty lemon meringue pie with a buttery crust and a tangy lemon curd filling, topped with a cloud of toasted meringue. The contrast between the tart lemon and the sweet, airy meringue creates a delightful balance of flavors. Serve it chilled for a refreshing end to your meal, and garnish with thin slices of lemon and a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus.

Why trust this Honey Glazed Ham Recipe:

This honey glazed ham recipe is a tried-and-true favorite, perfect for any holiday gathering. The combination of butter, brown sugar, and honey creates a rich, caramelized glaze that enhances the natural flavors of the ham. With the addition of dijon mustard and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice, this dish offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory. The step-by-step instructions ensure a foolproof result, making it easy for both novice and experienced cooks to impress their guests.

Share your thoughts and experiences with the Honey Glazed Ham Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

How do I store leftover honey glazed ham?

I usually wrap the leftover ham tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.

Can I use a different type of mustard?

Absolutely! If you don't have dijon mustard, you can use yellow mustard or even a grainy mustard. It might slightly change the flavor, but it'll still be delicious.

What kind of fruit and herbs should I use for garnish?

I like to use fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley. For fruit, oranges, pineapples, and cherries work great. They add a nice pop of color and complement the flavors of the ham.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the glaze a day or two in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to use it, warm it up on the stove or in the microwave until it's pourable.

What if my ham is smaller or larger than 8 lbs?

If your ham is smaller, reduce the cooking time accordingly. For a larger ham, you might need to increase the cooking time. A good rule of thumb is to bake the ham for about 15-20 minutes per pound at 350 degrees F. Just keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn't dry out.