Looking for a show-stopping main dish that is as simple as it is impressive? This honey glazed ham strikes the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and savory, and it could hardly be easier to make. The oven does most of the work, the glaze comes together in minutes, and the result looks and tastes like you spent all day in the kitchen.
It is not really the holidays without a beautifully glazed ham at the center of the table. Whether you are hosting Easter, Christmas, or a cozy Sunday dinner, this recipe delivers a rich, caramelized crust wrapped around juicy, flavorful meat. A glossy honey and brown sugar glaze, brightened with Dijon and warm spices, gives every slice that irresistible sweet-and-smoky finish that makes people come back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This honey glazed ham is ridiculously easy, because the oven handles the heavy lifting while your glaze simmers on the stovetop in just a few minutes. It is elegant enough to anchor a holiday feast, yet approachable enough for a regular family dinner, which makes it a genuine year-round staple.
The magic is in that sweet and savory glaze. Honey and brown sugar create a glossy, caramelized crust that plays beautifully against the smoky, salty ham, while Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar keep it from tipping too sweet. Warm cloves and cinnamon round everything out with a subtle holiday warmth.
And do not forget the leftovers, which may be the best part of all. This ham is delicious hot or cold and makes the very best sandwiches, omelets, and quiches for days after the main event.
Ingredients
The centerpiece is 1 bone-in spiral ham, 8 to 10 pounds, which is easy to serve, conveniently pre-sliced, and stays wonderfully juicy. If you cannot find a spiral-cut ham, simply score the surface of a whole ham in a crisscross pattern before glazing so the flavors can soak in.
For the glaze, you will need 1/2 cup of honey and 1/2 cup of brown sugar for sweetness and caramelization, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard and 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar for tang and balance, and 1/2 teaspoon each of ground cloves and cinnamon for warm, festive spice. Two tablespoons of butter make the glaze rich and silky, while 1 teaspoon of garlic powder adds a savory depth that keeps the whole thing grounded.
That short, pantry-friendly ingredient list is all it takes to turn a simple ham into the glossy, golden centerpiece of your table.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the ham cut side down in a roasting pan, which helps it stay moist as it warms.
Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake it for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it is warmed through, figuring roughly 15 minutes per pound. Keeping it tented during this first phase is the key to preventing a dry ham.
While the ham warms, make the glaze. In a saucepan, combine the honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cloves, cinnamon, butter, and garlic powder. Simmer over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the glaze has thickened slightly and turned glossy.
Remove the ham from the oven and increase the temperature to 425°F (218°C). Brush half of the glaze all over the ham, then return it to the oven uncovered for 10 minutes so the sugars can begin to caramelize.
Brush the remaining glaze over the ham and bake for another 10 minutes, until it forms a deep, golden, glossy crust. For even more caramelization, you can turn on the broiler for the last 2 to 3 minutes, but keep a close eye on it so it does not scorch. Let the ham rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing so the juices settle back into the meat.
Tips for the Best Honey Glazed Ham
The two most important moves are keeping the ham covered with foil during the initial bake to lock in moisture, and cranking the heat only at the end so the glaze caramelizes without drying out the meat. If you love a deeply lacquered crust, that quick pass under the broiler works wonders, as long as you watch it closely. And always let the ham rest before slicing, which keeps every piece juicy.
A ham this good deserves worthy sides. Serve it with buttery creamy mashed potatoes and a tray of roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze for a complete, elegant holiday plate that comes together with almost no extra fuss.
Want to make it your own? Stir a teaspoon of cayenne into the glaze for a subtle kick, swap half the honey for pure maple syrup for a different kind of sweetness, or try an orange marmalade glaze for a bright, citrusy twist.
Kitchen Gear for This Recipe
- Instant-Read Meat Thermometer
- Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven
- Heavy-Duty Sheet Pan Set
- Glass Mixing Bowl Set
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this honey glazed ham ahead of time?
Yes. You can bake the ham a day in advance, then reheat it at 300°F for 20 to 30 minutes before serving. Brush it with a little extra glaze before reheating for maximum flavor and shine.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze it for up to 2 months. Slice it first to make future meals quick and easy.
Can I use a boneless ham?
Absolutely. Just reduce the baking time slightly, since boneless hams cook faster than bone-in ones. Use a thermometer to confirm it is warmed through.
How do I keep the ham from drying out?
Cover it loosely with foil during the first phase of baking and avoid overcooking. Reserving a little glaze to brush on just before serving also adds moisture and flavor.
What can I do with the leftovers?
Leftover honey glazed ham is fantastic in sandwiches, folded into omelets, or baked into a ham and cheese quiche. It is just as good served cold straight from the fridge.
Sweet, savory, and gloriously caramelized, this honey glazed ham is guaranteed to be the star of your table. For more wholesome inspiration, browse these healthy eating ideas, and when you make it, snap a photo and tag @thekitchensaid on Instagram so I can see your glossy, golden masterpiece.
Honey Glazed Ham
American · Main Course
A sweet and savory honey glazed ham with a glossy, caramelized honey-brown sugar crust, perfect for holidays and Sunday dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 (8-10 lb) bone-in spiral ham
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325F (163C) and place the ham cut side down in a roasting pan.
- Cover loosely with foil and bake 1.5 to 2 hours, about 15 minutes per pound, until warmed through.
- Simmer honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cloves, cinnamon, butter, and garlic powder for 5 to 7 minutes until thickened.
- Increase oven to 425F (218C), brush half the glaze over the ham, and bake uncovered for 10 minutes.
- Brush on the remaining glaze and bake another 10 minutes until deeply caramelized.
- Rest the ham for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrition: 350 calories
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