Looking for a show-stopping dish to add to your holiday table? This Honey Baked Ham is the perfect combination of sweet and savory, featuring a delicious honey glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. It’s simple to prepare yet makes an unforgettable centerpiece for any special occasion.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, and score the surface of the ham in a crisscross pattern.
- In a medium saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cloves, cinnamon, and ginger. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar has dissolved and the glaze has thickened slightly (about 5-7 minutes).
- Brush the ham generously with the honey glaze, making sure to cover all the scored areas.
- Tent the ham with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, basting every 20 minutes with the glaze.
- After 1 hour, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the ham is browned and caramelized on the outside.
- Let the ham rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with any remaining glaze.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Kcal: 300 per serving
Servings: 12-14
Origin of Honey Baked Ham
Honey Baked Ham is a classic American dish often associated with holiday feasts and family gatherings. The combination of savory ham and sweet, caramelized honey glaze creates a perfect balance of flavors that appeal to a wide range of tastes. This dish is typically served at Christmas, Easter, or Thanksgiving, but its rich, comforting flavors make it perfect for any special occasion. The origins of this dish likely trace back to Southern American cooking, where glazing meats with sweet syrups, honey, or fruit preserves was a popular technique.
Tips for the Perfect Honey Baked Ham
- Choosing the Ham: Opt for a bone-in ham for the best flavor. While boneless hams are convenient, bone-in hams tend to retain more moisture and flavor during cooking.
- Glaze Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of honey (e.g., clover, wildflower, or manuka honey) to bring unique flavors to your glaze. You can also add a splash of bourbon or orange juice to enhance the glaze’s complexity.
- Basting: Basting the ham with the glaze every 20 minutes ensures that the ham absorbs all of the sweet, savory flavor while creating that beautiful caramelized crust. Don’t forget to save some of the glaze for serving on the side!
- Resting Time: After removing the ham from the oven, allow it to rest for about 10 minutes. This helps redistribute the juices inside the meat and makes for a juicier, more tender ham when sliced.
Serving Suggestions
This honey baked ham pairs wonderfully with traditional sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, and cornbread. For a more casual meal, serve slices of the ham on sandwiches or alongside a fresh salad. The sweet and savory nature of the ham also makes it a great addition to any brunch or holiday buffet.
How to Store Leftovers
Leftover honey baked ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The glaze may solidify when chilled, but it can be easily reheated in the microwave or on the stove. For longer storage, you can freeze leftover ham for up to 2-3 months. To prevent it from drying out, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
Health Considerations
While honey baked ham is delicious, it’s a rich dish and should be enjoyed in moderation, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake or sodium levels. The ham is naturally high in protein, and the glaze adds a touch of sweetness, making it a well-rounded meal when paired with nutritious sides.
FAQs
Can I use a boneless ham for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a boneless ham, but be aware that it may cook faster and might not retain as much moisture and flavor as a bone-in ham. Keep an eye on it while baking.
Can I make the glaze in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the honey glaze up to 2 days ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just warm it up slightly before using it on the ham.
Can I use brown sugar substitutes?
If you’re looking for a sugar-free or lower-sugar version, you can substitute brown sugar with a sugar alternative like Stevia or a sugar alcohol such as erythritol. Keep in mind that the texture and taste of the glaze may vary slightly.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Honey Baked Ham is a great make-ahead dish, and leftovers are just as delicious as the freshly baked ham. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:
- Storing Leftovers: After serving, store leftover ham in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Refrigerate it for up to 3-4 days. If you have a large amount of leftover ham, consider slicing it first for easy reheating.
- Freezing Leftovers: You can also freeze leftover ham. Wrap it in plastic wrap and foil, then store it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, place the ham in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the ham slices or whole ham in a baking dish and cover with foil. Warm it in a 325°F (163°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If you’re reheating a larger portion, it may take up to 30 minutes. You can also heat individual slices in the microwave for quick servings.
Nutritional Information
While Honey Baked Ham is a delicious treat, it’s also quite rich, so be mindful of portion sizes. Here’s a general idea of the nutritional content per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 200-250 kcal per 3-ounce serving, depending on the glaze amount.
- Protein: 20-25 grams
- Fat: 10-12 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
- Sugar: 10-12 grams (mainly from the honey and brown sugar)
- Sodium: 700-900 mg
Keep in mind that the glaze can add extra sugar and calories, so adjusting the glaze ratio based on your dietary preferences can be a good idea.
Pairing Drinks with Honey Baked Ham
The rich sweetness of Honey Baked Ham pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. Here are some drink options that complement the flavors of the ham:
- Wine: A light, fruity white wine like Riesling or a slightly sweet rosé will balance the savory and sweet elements of the dish. If you prefer red wine, try a light Pinot Noir or a fruity Zinfandel.
- Cocktails: A bourbon-based cocktail, such as an Old Fashioned or a Whiskey Sour, complements the smoky richness of the ham. For something lighter, a spritz made with sparkling wine and a splash of fruit juice is refreshing and balances the sweetness.
- Non-Alcoholic: For a non-alcoholic option, try serving iced tea with a slice of lemon, or a sparkling apple cider. The slight acidity and bubbles in these drinks help cut through the richness of the ham.
Why This Honey Baked Ham Recipe Works
This recipe is a winner because it combines simplicity with delicious results. By using a pre-cooked ham, you save time on preparation and focus on infusing the flavors into the meat. The glaze is the star of the show—easy to prepare and full of bold flavors that complement the ham without overwhelming it. The sweetness from the honey and brown sugar, paired with the tanginess of the Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar, creates the perfect balance. This Honey Baked Ham is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor from the first bite to the last!
Perfect for Special Occasions or Weeknight Dinners
Though traditionally served for holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, Honey Baked Ham is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed any time of year. It’s great for family gatherings, birthdays, or even a special weeknight dinner. The leftovers are also fantastic for sandwiches, salads, or breakfast casseroles, making this dish a true crowd-pleaser with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding a small family or hosting a large crowd, this recipe ensures that everyone will leave the table satisfied.
You can also consider adding some of the following elements to your article to make it even more engaging:
- Step-by-step photos or a video tutorial showcasing the glaze preparation, basting, and final result.
- Customer Reviews or Testimonials (if you have a following or previous feedback on the recipe) to make it more relatable.
- Serving Suggestions or Customization Ideas: Mention any additional herbs, spices, or substitutions for people with dietary restrictions (e.g., gluten-free or sugar-free options).
Conclusion
Honey Baked Ham is more than just a dish; it’s a tradition that brings families together around the table. With its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors, it’s a dish that never goes out of style. Whether served at a holiday feast, family gathering, or a casual dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit. By following the tips and tricks outlined above, you’ll be able to make a ham that’s juicy, flavorful, and the perfect centerpiece for any meal.
Enjoy your Honey Baked Ham with your favorite sides and savor the memories made around the table. Happy cooking!