Name: Irresistibly Sweet Honey Glazed Ham for Holiday Magic
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 70 min
Total time: 120 min
Ingredients: 8 lbs Fully Cooked Bone-In Spiral Ham (The centerpiece of this dish; ensures easy slicing and even cooking.); 1 unit Orange (Adds refreshing zest; you can substitute lemon for a delightful twist.); 1 cup Orange Juice (Provides moisture and tang; freshly squeezed juice enhances the flavor.); 1 cup Dark Brown Sugar (Adds sweetness and depth to the glaze; use light brown sugar for a milder sweetness.); 1 cup Honey (The star sweetener that enhances the glaze's rich flavor; adjust to your sweetness preference.); 0.5 cup Orange Marmalade; 0.25 cup Dijon Mustard (Balances the sweetness with tang; yellow mustard is a good alternative for a milder taste.); 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon (Imparts a warm flavor that deepens the glaze; substitute with allspice if necessary.); 0.5 tsp Nutmeg (Enhances the spice profile with a nutty taste; can be omitted if unavailable.); 0.5 tsp Bayou City Lemon Pepper (Provides a unique peppery kick; any citrus-infused seasoning makes a fine replacement.); 0.5 tsp Cloves (Adds warmth and sweetness; feel free to omit if not preferred.); 1 tsp Salt (Essential for balancing the flavors; it enriches the entire glaze experience.)

The sweet aroma of honey mingling with a hint of citrus wafts through my kitchen as I prepare to unveil the star of my holiday table: Honey Glazed Ham with Citrus and Spices. This delightful centerpiece not only steals the show with its beautiful caramelization but also offers the ultimate comfort of a home-cooked meal. With minimal prep time and a crowd-pleasing nature, this ham is destined to become a beloved tradition in your home. The luscious glaze adds a unique twist that elevates the savory ham, making it a dish that lingers in the hearts of loved ones long after the last slice is enjoyed. Are you ready to discover the steps to create this mouthwatering masterpiece?

Why is Honey Glazed Ham a Must-Try?

Irresistible Flavor: The harmonious blend of sweet honey and citrusy orange creates a glaze that your taste buds will adore.
Easy Preparation: With simple steps, even novice cooks can shine at family gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for holidays, this ham is sure to impress friends and family alike!
Stunning Presentation: It emerges from the oven with a glossy finish that makes it the centerpiece of any meal.
Versatile Pairings: Complement with classic sides like Carrots Maple Thyme or buttery dinner rolls for a complete feast!

Honey Glazed Ham Ingredients

For the Ham
• Fully Cooked Bone-In Spiral Ham (8 lbs) – The centerpiece of this dish; ensures easy slicing and even cooking.

For the Glaze
• Orange (1, sliced) – Adds refreshing zest; you can substitute lemon for a delightful twist.
• Orange Juice (1 cup) – Provides moisture and tang; freshly squeezed juice enhances the flavor.
• Dark Brown Sugar (1 cup) – Adds sweetness and depth to the glaze; use light brown sugar for a milder sweetness.
• Honey (1 cup) – The star sweetener that enhances the glaze’s rich flavor; adjust to your sweetness preference.
• Orange Marmalade (½ cup) – Contributes additional citrus sweetness and improves the glaze texture; apricot preserves work nicely as a substitute.
• Dijon Mustard (¼ cup) – Balances the sweetness with tang; yellow mustard is a good alternative for a milder taste.
• Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp) – Imparts a warm flavor that deepens the glaze; substitute with allspice if necessary.
• Nutmeg (½ tsp) – Enhances the spice profile with a nutty taste; can be omitted if unavailable.
• Bayou City Lemon Pepper (½ tsp) – Provides a unique peppery kick; any citrus-infused seasoning makes a fine replacement.
• Cloves (½ tsp) – Adds warmth and sweetness; feel free to omit if not preferred.
• Salt (1 tsp) – Essential for balancing the flavors; it enriches the entire glaze experience.

This Honey Glazed Ham is sure to be a hit at your next gathering, filling hearts and bellies with joy!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Glazed Ham

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure the perfect cooking environment for your Honey Glazed Ham. While the oven warms up, prepare the other elements for the recipe. This temperature allows the ham to get hot and tender, and prepares the glaze to caramelize beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Roasting Pan
In a shallow roasting pan, layer the orange slices evenly across the bottom. Pour the orange juice over the slices, creating a fragrant bed that will infuse moisture into the ham as it cooks. This step not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the ham juicy and delicious.

Step 3: Set the Ham
Place a roasting rack in the pan, which gives the ham enough space to cook evenly and prevents it from sitting in excess juices. Gently place the fully cooked bone-in spiral ham on top of the roasting rack, ensuring it is stable. This position allows for better heat circulation, leading to even cooking.

Step 4: Make the Glaze
In a medium saucepan, combine the dark brown sugar, honey, orange marmalade, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the ingredients are thoroughly blended. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle bubble, which should take about 4 minutes. This bubbling stage helps to deepen the flavors of your Honey Glazed Ham.

Step 5: Apply the First Glaze
Once the glaze has bubbled, pour half of it over the ham, making sure to coat it evenly. Use a brush or spoon to spread the glaze into the crevices of the ham’s spiral cuts. This first layer will caramelize during baking, providing the sweet and sticky finish you’re aiming for.

Step 6: Bake the Ham
Cover the roasting pan loosely with aluminum foil to help retain moisture. Bake the Honey Glazed Ham in the preheated oven for 50 minutes. This will warm the ham thoroughly while allowing the glaze to meld into the meat, resulting in a mouthwatering flavor and tenderness.

Step 7: Add More Glaze and Finish Baking
After the initial baking time, carefully remove the foil and pour the remaining glaze over the ham. Return the ham to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 20 minutes. The glaze should bubble and caramelize beautifully, creating an irresistible coating on your masterpiece.

Step 8: Check for Doneness
Towards the end of the baking time, check the temperature of the ham using a meat thermometer. It should reach an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) to ensure it is fully warmed through and ready to serve. Adjust cooking time if necessary to achieve this ideal doneness.

Step 9: Rest Before Carving
Remove the ham from the oven once it’s perfectly heated, and tent it with aluminum foil. Allow it to rest for about 15-20 minutes before carving. This resting period helps to retain the juices, ensuring each slice of your Honey Glazed Ham remains moist and flavorful.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
After resting, slice the ham into beautiful spirals and serve it warm with the delicious glaze on the side. This Honey Glazed Ham will certainly be the star of your holiday table, embodying comfort and bringing joy to every gathering.

What to Serve with Honey Glazed Ham

Elevate your holiday feast with delightful accompaniments that complement the sweet and savory profile of this unforgettable main dish.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The silky texture and buttery flavor create a perfect contrast to the caramelized ham, providing a cozy base for all those delicious bites.
Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Colors and textures merge beautifully with the ham. Think carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes roasted to golden perfection.
Buttery Dinner Rolls: Fluffy and warm, these rolls are perfect for soaking up the delicious glaze, adding an inviting touch to your table.
Tangy Coleslaw: A crunchy and refreshing side, the slight tang of coleslaw counterbalances the sweetness of the ham, making each bite a delight.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Enhance the sweet theme with carrots glazed in honey and a sprinkle of thyme, creating a harmonizing dish that’s equally tasty and visually appealing.
Sparkling Apple Cider: Pair your meal with a bubbly drink that brings lightness to the table, making every sip feel festive and cheerful.
Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of fresh fruits, such as berries and citrus, offers a refreshing contrast to the savory notes of the ham while cleansing the palate.
Pecan Pie: For dessert, indulge with a classic pecan pie. The rich nuttiness pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the honey glaze, rounding out your festive meal.

Honey Glazed Ham Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to add your personal touch to this delightful dish and make it uniquely yours!

Boneless Ham: Consider using boneless ham for easier, cleaner slicing, perfect for sharing with loved ones. This twist simplifies serving and handles perfectly on the plate.
Spicy Glaze: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the glaze. This added heat beautifully contrasts the sweetness, adding depth that adventurous eaters will love.
Different Citrus: Experiment with grapefruit or lemon in the glaze for a fresh twist. Each citrus brings its own unique flavor profile, making the dish exciting and refreshing!
Maple Infusion: Swap honey for maple syrup for a different sweetness. It adds a delightful depth that complements the savory notes of the ham and brings warmth to the dish.
Herb-Infused Glaze: Incorporate fresh rosemary or thyme to the glaze for an herbal twist. The aromatic qualities elevate the dish while adding sophistication to your holiday feast.
Honey Mustard Combo: Mix equal parts honey and mustard for the glaze for a tangy and sweet flavor. This combination brightens up the ham while being a hit among mustard lovers.
Fruity Add-Ins: Stir in chopped dried fruits like apricots or cranberries into the glaze for texture and bursts of sweetness. The chewy little morsels bring a delightful surprise to every bite!
Reduced Sugar: Substitute half the honey with a sugar alternative like agave syrup or erythritol for a lower sugar option. You can still enjoy a sweet glaze while catering to your dietary needs.

Thinking about sides? Consider serving this Honey Glazed Ham alongside Carrots Maple Thyme for a beautifully balanced meal or pair it with some festive bread to soak up that delicious glaze!

Make Ahead Options

These Honey Glazed Ham preparations are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the glaze up to 24 hours in advance by combining dark brown sugar, honey, orange marmalade, and other ingredients, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can slice the ham and layer it with orange slices in the roasting pan up to 3 days ahead, keeping it covered with plastic wrap or foil to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy this delicious dish, simply follow the baking instructions as usual, allowing the ham to rest after cooking for a succulent, crowd-pleasing meal that will impress your guests!

Expert Tips for Honey Glazed Ham

Room Temperature: Allow the ham to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This promotes even cooking and helps achieve that perfect texture.

Pat Dry: Don’t forget to pat the ham dry before applying the glaze. This simple step ensures that your Honey Glazed Ham will be perfectly coated and caramelized.

Use a Meat Thermometer: Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer at the thickest part. The ham should reach 140°F (60°C) for optimal doneness.

Adjust Sweetness: Tailor the sweetness of your glaze by modifying the amounts of honey and brown sugar to suit your taste. A little adjustment can make a big difference!

Foil Tip: Tent the ham with aluminum foil during the first baking stage to lock in moisture. This keeps the ham juicy and tender while the glaze forms.

Resting Period: Allow the ham to rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This crucial step ensures juicy, flavorful slices of your Honey Glazed Ham.

How to Store and Freeze Honey Glazed Ham

Fridge: Place leftover Honey Glazed Ham in an airtight container; it stays fresh for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to refrigerate within two hours of cooking to ensure safety.

Freezer: Wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, slice the ham and warm it in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 10-15 minutes. You can brush it with extra glaze to keep it moist and flavorful.

Honey Glazed Ham Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best ham?
Absolutely! When selecting a ham, go for a fully cooked bone-in spiral ham, ideally around 8 lbs for even cooking and ease of slicing. Look for a ham with a consistent color and avoid any with dark spots or signs of spoilage. The best option usually has a shiny exterior, indicating it has been properly cured and glazed.

What is the best way to store leftover Honey Glazed Ham?
Very! After enjoying your delicious Honey Glazed Ham, store any leftovers in an airtight container. It will remain fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to refrigerate the leftovers within two hours after cooking to ensure food safety.

Can I freeze Honey Glazed Ham?
Absolutely! To freeze your Honey Glazed Ham, tightly wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it inside a freezer bag. This way, it can be stored for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for the best results.

What should I do if my glaze is too runny?
If your glaze turns out runny, don’t worry! You can fix this by continuing to cook it over medium heat. Allow the glaze to simmer gently for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring constantly until it thickens. If you desire a thicker texture right away, try adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water; just be sure to incorporate the cornstarch mixture gradually and keep stirring.

Are there any dietary considerations for Honey Glazed Ham?
Yes! For those with allergies, it’s essential to note that this recipe contains honey, mustard, and spices which may cause issues for some individuals. Also, the dish is not suitable for pets, particularly because of the high sugar content and cloves. If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, consider offering a reduced-sugar version by adjusting the amount of honey and brown sugar.

How can I enhance the flavors of the Honey Glazed Ham?
Very! To boost the flavors, you can marinate the ham in the glaze overnight before cooking. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different spices such as cayenne pepper for a kick or substitute some of the orange juice with apple cider for a unique twist. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility, and making it your own can enrich both the taste and the experience!