Name: Irresistible Honey Glazed Ham for Your Holiday Table
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 90 min
Total time: 120 min
Ingredients: 1 whole bone-in, fully cooked ham (Choose size based on guest count); 1/2 cup honey (Or substitute with maple syrup); 1/4 cup brown sugar (Light brown sugar can be used); 1 teaspoon ground ginger (Can substitute with nutmeg or omit); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (Allspice works as an alternative); 1 tablespoon orange zest (Can substitute with lemon zest)

The aroma of sweet honey and warm spices wafting through the kitchen—it’s a memory that instantly brings joy, especially during the holidays. My favorite centerpiece for festive gatherings is definitely Honey Glazed Ham, a traditional dish that effortlessly turns any meal into a celebration. This recipe not only features a fully cooked ham braised with a delightful glaze but it also provides an achievable way to impress your family and friends. With minimal prep time and a crowd-pleasing appeal, it’s the perfect choice for holiday meals, whether it’s Thanksgiving, Easter, or Christmas. As the glaze caramelizes to a beautiful golden hue, it creates a tantalizing contrast to the tender, smoky meat. Are you ready to dive into this delicious tradition and make your next gathering unforgettable?

Why is Honey Glazed Ham a Must-Try?

Simplicity at its best: This recipe features few ingredients, making it a breeze even for novice cooks.
Irresistible Flavors: The blend of honey, spices, and orange zest creates an enchanting, sweet-savory harmony.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or holiday festivities, everyone will be coming back for seconds!
Versatility: Serve it with roasted veggies or creamy mashed potatoes to complement this showstopper.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prep in advance and enjoy more time with loved ones, perfect for stress-free celebrations.
Get ready to impress with this truly delightful dish that transcends ordinary meals!

Honey Glazed Ham Ingredients

• Dive into these essential ingredients for your delicious Honey Glazed Ham.

For the Ham

Bone-in, fully cooked ham – The star of the show; choose a size based on your guest count for a satisfying feast.

For the Glaze

Honey – Adds a sweet and sticky touch; substitute with maple syrup for a delicious variation.
Brown Sugar – Enhances sweetness and caramelization; light brown sugar can be used as a substitute if needed.
Ground Ginger – Introduces warmth; you can replace it with nutmeg for a different spice profile or omit for a milder taste.
Ground Cinnamon – Provides familiar warmth; allspice works as a great alternative, or leave it out if you prefer.
Orange Zest – Infuses brightness and a lovely citrus aroma; lemon zest can be an unexpected twist to the classic.

Feel the warmth of the holidays as you prepare this flavorful Honey Glazed Ham!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Glazed Ham

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin your Honey Glazed Ham journey by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low temperature is crucial for allowing the ham to warm gradually and soak in the flavors of the glaze. While the oven heats, gather your cooking equipment, including a roasting pan or a large baking dish for the ham.

Step 2: Score the Ham
Next, take your bone-in, fully cooked ham and score its surface by making diagonal cuts about 1/4 inch deep. This diamond pattern not only adds visual appeal but also allows the glaze to penetrate the meat, enhancing flavor. At the intersections, insert whole cloves for added aroma and tradition.

Step 3: Prepare the Glaze
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine honey, brown sugar, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, and grated orange zest. Microwave the mixture for 15 to 30 seconds until it becomes smoother and easier to brush. This warming step allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, creating the perfect glaze for your ham.

Step 4: Position the Ham
Place the scored ham cut side down in your prepared baking dish. Adding a small amount of water to the bottom helps keep the meat moist during the prolonged baking process. It’s essential that the ham doesn’t dry out, so this step is vital for a juicy final result.

Step 5: Apply the Glaze
Generously brush the warm glaze over the top and sides of the ham, ensuring it is well-coated to achieve a beautiful caramelized surface. Once glazed, cover the ham tightly with aluminum foil to lock in moisture while it bakes. The result will be a tender centerpiece for your holiday table.

Step 6: Bake the Ham
Slide the covered ham into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 1.5 hours. This slow cooking allows the flavors of the Honey Glazed Ham to develop fully. After the timer rings, remove it briefly for glazing again and to check on the moisture level in the dish.

Step 7: Baste and Uncover
In the last 45 minutes of baking, remove the foil and baste the ham with leftover glaze every 15 minutes. This additional glazing will create a deep, sticky coating that contrasts beautifully with the smoky flavor of the ham. Watch for the caramelization, as the exterior should become golden and glossy.

Step 8: Serve the Ham
Once the ham has warmed through and the glaze is caramelized, remove it from the oven. Don’t forget to take out the cloves before slicing! Allow the Honey Glazed Ham to rest for a few minutes before serving so that the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.

Honey Glazed Ham Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to stir creativity into your kitchen and customize this delectable recipe as you see fit!

Turkey Alternative: Swap the ham for turkey breast for a lighter holiday option that balances beautifully with the glaze.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the glaze for a delightful spicy kick that contrasts with the sweetness.
Maple Glaze: Substitute honey with maple syrup for a deeper, earthy sweetness—perfect for a fall-inspired twist!
Nutmeg or Allspice: Instead of ground ginger and cinnamon, try nutmeg or allspice for a warm, cozy spice profile that’s just a little different.
Citrus Burst: Use lemon or lime zest in place of orange zest for a zesty flair that brightens the overall flavor.
Savory Ham Infusion: Incorporate a few tablespoons of Dijon mustard into your glaze for an unexpected savory twist that tantalizes the palate.
Vegetarian Stuffing: For an interesting side, fill acorn squash with a mixture of grains and roasted veggies, mirroring the glazed flavors of the ham.
Sweet & Spicy Glaze: Mix in some chili jam with your glaze for a sweet and spicy combination that will have everyone daring to go for more.

For more delightful combinations, consider pairing your Honey Glazed Ham with sides like Savory Ham Cheese puffs or a tangy Hot Honey Chicken. These options will complement your main dish perfectly while adding variety to your holiday spread!

Make Ahead Options

These Honey Glazed Ham preparations are perfect for busy cooks wanting to streamline their holiday meal! You can prepare the glaze up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its vibrant flavors. Additionally, you can score the ham and apply the glaze up to 3 days ahead of time—just remember to refrigerate it tightly covered to ensure the ham remains moist. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat your oven and bake the ham as directed, basting every 15 minutes for that delicious caramelization. This way, you’ll savor every moment with your guests instead of being tied to the kitchen.

What to Serve with Honey Glazed Ham

The joy of a holiday feast is magnified when your Honey Glazed Ham is matched with the perfect sides, creating an unforgettable meal experience.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery texture contrasts beautifully with the sweet glaze, creating a harmony of flavors that’s simply delightful.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their tender, caramelized edges add a nice crunch and earthiness, making this pairing not just tasty but visually appealing too.
Honey Glazed Carrots: Complement the ham with their natural sweetness, seamlessly tying into the honey glaze while adding vibrant color to your plate.
Garlic Bread Rolls: Soft and fluffy rolls are perfect for mopping up any leftover glaze, providing a satisfying and comforting texture with each bite.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits brightens the meal with a burst of flavor and offers a refreshing palate cleanser to balance the richness.
Sweet Potato Casserole: The sweet and creamy nature of this dish pairs beautifully with the smoky ham, while the marshmallow topping adds an indulgent twist.
Sparkling Apple Cider: This bubbly beverage enhances the festive spirit, offering a sweet effervescence that compliments the ham’s glaze without overpowering it.

Each of these pairings not only enhances the flavors of the Honey Glazed Ham but also contributes to a warm, inviting atmosphere at your holiday gathering!

How to Store and Freeze Honey Glazed Ham

Fridge: Store leftover Honey Glazed Ham in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Make sure to slice it before refrigeration for easier serving later.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the ham in freezer-safe bags or containers, separating slices with parchment paper. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating: To enjoy your leftovers, reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C), covered with foil to retain moisture, until warmed through. This makes every bite just as delicious as when it was first served!

Glaze Storage: If you have leftover glaze, store it in the fridge for up to a week. Use it as a marinade for future meats or drizzle it over roasted vegetables for added flavor.

Expert Tips for Honey Glazed Ham

Homemade Glaze: Avoid using pre-packaged glaze; a homemade honey glaze enhances the flavors and freshness of your Honey Glazed Ham.
Score Deeply but Carefully: Make sure to score the ham deeply enough to let the glaze seep in, but not too deep that it dries out the meat during baking.
Warm the Glaze: Keeping the glaze warm while baking makes it easier to brush on and ensures a smooth, even coating.
Frequent Basting: Baste the ham every 15 minutes in the last 45 minutes of baking; this helps achieve that stunning caramelized finish that everyone loves.
Rest Before Slicing: Allow the ham to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This lets the juices redistribute, ensuring moist, flavorful slices.

Honey Glazed Ham Recipe FAQs

How do I select the perfect ham for my Honey Glazed Ham?
Choosing a bone-in, fully cooked ham is key! Look for one that has a good marbling of fat for added flavor. If possible, check for a ham with a deep pink coloration—this indicates optimal freshness. A ham of about 8 to 10 pounds is ideal for gatherings of 10–12 people, but don’t hesitate to adjust based on your guest list!

What’s the best way to store leftover Honey Glazed Ham?
Absolutely! Store any leftover Honey Glazed Ham in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 5 days. To prevent the meat from drying out, slice the ham before placing it in the container. If you have a good amount left, I recommend chunking it up for easy use in future meals!

Can I freeze Honey Glazed Ham, and how?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Honey Glazed Ham, first, slice the ham, then wrap each slice in parchment paper. Place the wrapped slices into a freezer-safe bag or container, squeezing out as much air as possible. You can keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in the oven.

What should I do if my glaze isn’t thickening?
If your glaze isn’t achieving the desired thickness, try simmering it on the stovetop for a few additional minutes. Pour the glaze into a small saucepan and cook on low heat, stirring frequently. This will help evaporate excess moisture, allowing it to thicken nicely. Just remember to keep an eye on it to avoid burning!

Is there anything I should be cautious about due to dietary restrictions?
Very! If you’re serving guests with allergies, be mindful of the ingredients—specifically honey, as it can be a concern for those with certain dietary restrictions. Additionally, if you have anyone allergic to specific spices, like ginger or cinnamon, you can easily substitute those or omit them altogether without ruining the dish. Just ensure to inform your guests of the ingredients to keep everyone safe!

Can I make the glaze in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze a day ahead of time. Store it in the fridge in a sealed container for up to a week. When you’re ready to use it, just heat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to achieve a nice pouring consistency. It adds great convenience for a more relaxed cooking day!