Glazed Easter Ham

Glazed Easter Ham is a classic holiday dish that serves as a show-stopping centerpiece for your festive table. The ham is baked to perfection with a sweet and savory glaze that forms a caramelized crust, enhancing the natural flavors of the meat. Ideal for Easter, Christmas, or any special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With a pre-cooked, spiral-cut ham, the preparation is simple and requires minimal effort.
• Flavorful Glaze: The combination of brown sugar, honey, and mustard creates a beautifully caramelized exterior.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Its impressive presentation and generous servings make it ideal for large gatherings.
• Versatile Leftovers: Use leftover ham in sandwiches, salads, or soups for delicious post-holiday meals.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 (8-10 pound) fully cooked bone-in spiral-cut ham
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham in a large roasting pan, cut side down.
2. Prepare the Glaze: In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, orange juice, whole grain mustard, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger. Cook over medium heat until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Bake the Ham: Brush the ham with a portion of the glaze, then cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting with the glaze every 30 minutes.
4. Caramelize the Glaze: Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). Remove the foil and brush the ham generously with more glaze. Bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and bubbly.
5. Rest and Serve: Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Serve with any remaining glaze drizzled over the top.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-14 servings
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 2 to 2.5 hours
• Total Time: Approximately 2.75 hours

Variations

• Citrus Glaze: Add zest of an orange or lemon to the glaze for a fresh, zesty flavor.
• Spicy Twist: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper or a teaspoon of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
• Maple Glaze: Substitute honey with maple syrup for a rich, deep sweetness.
• Pineapple Glaze: Add pineapple juice and crushed pineapple to the glaze for a tropical touch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Reheat slices in the oven at 325°F (165°C) or in the microwave until warm.
• Freezing: Wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing for up to 3 months.

FAQs

What type of ham should I use for this recipe?

A fully cooked, bone-in spiral-cut ham is ideal. It is easy to serve and ensures even glazing.

How do I prevent the ham from drying out?

Cover the ham with foil during the initial baking phase and baste it frequently with the glaze to keep it moist.

Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

Yes, you can make the glaze up to two days ahead. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat before applying to the ham.

What if my ham comes with a glaze packet?

You can use the included packet, but this homemade glaze adds a more robust and personalized flavor.

Is it necessary to score the ham?

Scoring (making shallow cuts in a diamond pattern) helps the glaze penetrate deeper and creates a beautiful presentation.

How do I know when the ham is heated through?

Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C) for serving.

Can I use this glaze on other meats?

Yes, this glaze is versatile and works well with pork loin, chicken, or even roasted vegetables.

What side dishes pair well with glazed ham?

Mashed potatoes, green beans, roasted carrots, and dinner rolls are classic pairings.

How do I keep the glaze from burning?

Keep an eye on the ham during the high-heat stage and baste it frequently. If the glaze starts to burn, cover loosely with foil.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook the ham on low for 4-5 hours, adding the glaze during the last hour and basting occasionally.

Conclusion

Glazed Easter Ham is a perfect main dish for your holiday table, delivering a beautiful balance of sweet and savory flavors. With its simple preparation and stunning presentation, this ham is sure to become a tradition at your family gatherings. Whether served fresh from the oven or enjoyed as leftovers, this recipe promises a memorable meal for everyone.

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