This glazed ham recipe, with its mouthwatering coating of honey and brown sugar, is truly a delightful centerpiece for any special occasion. Having tried various ham recipes over the years, this one stands out as an absolute favorite. The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity and elegance; it transforms an ordinary ham into an extraordinary holiday entrée that feels like a warm embrace on a festive evening. Ideal for gatherings like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter, this ham captivates with its shimmering glaze and rich flavors, leaving a lasting impression on all who share the table with you. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively party with friends, this ham serves as a centerpiece that will have your guests reaching for seconds.
The beauty of this dish is that it takes something pre-prepared and elevates it to gourmet heights with minimal effort. Most hams come pre-cooked and spiral cut, so the hard part is already done for you. All you need to do is whip up a simple, yet decadently flavorful glaze, and the oven does the rest. This recipe’s balance of savory and sweet is perfect, with a glossy, caramelized finish that tastes every bit as good as it looks. Pair this ham with sides like buttery mashed potatoes or crispy bacon-wrapped green beans, and you have a spread guaranteed to bring festive cheer to your table.
When I think of the perfect main course for holiday festivities, this glazed ham recipe is what comes to my mind. It’s astonishingly easy to prepare and delivers an unmatched flavorful punch with its honey-brown sugar glaze, which caramelizes beautifully in the oven. The enriched flavors of spice and sweet fusions make it a standout dish that exudes an air of effortless luxury. Next time the holiday season rolls around, why not give this a try? If you’ve already got your go-to holiday meals like a honey-baked ham or slow-roasted turkey, consider adding this jewel to your lineup.
Main Recipe
This straightforward glazed ham recipe requires just a few simple ingredients to bring it together:
Spiral Cut Ham: Opt for a quality pre-cooked, spiral-cut ham. Discard the glaze or seasoning packet it comes with as this is where you’ll infuse your creativity with your homemade glaze.
Butter: The buttery richness makes the glaze smooth and luxurious. Both salted and unsalted butter work, so use what’s in your fridge.
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar brings a milder sweetness, while dark brown sugar elevates the flavor with its deep, molasses-like notes.
Honey: Use a mild honey like clover or wildflower to complement rather than overpower other flavors.
Apple Cider: Fresh apple cider is preferred for its robust taste, but in a pinch, apple juice can be a substitute. Remember, apple cider and apple cider vinegar are not the same.
Cinnamon: This adds cozy warmth to your glaze. A little goes a long way, so ensure your cinnamon is fresh for full flavor impact.
Nutmeg: Freshly grated nutmeg gives an earthy depth. Shave off what you need directly from a whole nutmeg if possible.
Preparation
Get ready to bring some kitchen magic to life. Make your glaze by combining butter, brown sugar, honey, apple cider, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a pan. Heat it gently until you’ve got a thick, syrupy goodness. Preheat your oven, place your ham in a roasting pan, and brush it generously with half the glaze. Make sure to cover the ham initially with foil to prevent burning. Near the end of the cooking time, warm up the remaining glaze, drizzle it over the ham, and give the oven temperature a quick hike for that caramelized perfection.
Serving Suggestions
Once the glazing and baking are done, let your ham rest to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Slice it against the grain for tender, juicy pieces, and arrange this beauty on a serving platter, garnished with fresh herbs and some festive cranberries for a pop of color. This glazed ham pairs wonderfully with hearty mashed potatoes, vibrant salads, and perhaps a side of stuffed mushrooms to complement its sweet-savory profile. Don’t forget a bottle of chilled white wine or sparkling cider to toast the delightful work of art you’ve just created!
