Sweet Honey Glazed Ham Recipe

Hey there! Today, we’re making something truly special—Honey-Glazed Ham. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or simply craving something that’s equal parts savory and sweet, this recipe has you covered. It’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary meal into a celebratory spread. Trust me, this glaze is about to make your ham the showstopper of the table!

If you’re ready to wow your family and friends, this Honey-Glazed Ham will do exactly that—no stress, all flavor!

### Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s incredibly easy to make, even for beginners—no special skills required!
• The glaze is pure magic: just the right mix of sweet and tangy with a hint of spice.
• Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or even meal prep—it feeds a crowd without the hassle.
• Bonus: Your kitchen will smell absolutely divine while it cooks!

### Ingredients Breakdown

**Essentials**

• Bone-In Ham (8–10 lbs): Look for a smoked, pre-cooked ham for ease. Spiral-cut works beautifully to let the glaze soak in.
• Honey (1/2 cup): The star of the glaze. If you’re out, maple syrup is a close substitute!
• Brown Sugar (1/2 cup): Adds that deep caramelized flavor.
• Dijon Mustard (2 tbsp): Balances the sweetness with a hint of tang.
• Apple Cider Vinegar (2 tbsp): Cuts through the richness and helps tenderize.
• Cinnamon & Cloves (1/2 tsp each): Warm spices that take the glaze to the next level.
• Unsalted Butter (2 tbsp): Adds richness to the glaze and helps it caramelize.

**Pro Tips**

• If you can’t find a spiral-cut ham, just score the surface in a diamond pattern to let the glaze seep in.
• Use fresh spices if possible—they make all the difference in flavor.

### Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place your ham, cut side down, in a large roasting pan. Cover the pan tightly with foil and bake for about 1 ½ hours (or 10–12 minutes per pound).
2. Meanwhile, let’s make the glaze! In a small saucepan, combine the honey, brown sugar, mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, cloves, and butter. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly. Set aside.
3. After the ham has baked for 1 ½ hours, remove it from the oven and increase the temperature to 425°F (220°C). Carefully remove the foil (save it for later!) and brush the glaze generously over the ham, making sure to get into all the crevices.
4. Return the ham to the oven, uncovered, for an additional 20–30 minutes. Baste with the glaze every 10 minutes until it’s beautifully caramelized and golden.
5. Pull the ham out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. It’s hard to be patient, but trust me, it’s worth it!

### Chef’s Tips and Tricks

• Don’t skip basting! Frequent basting ensures every inch of the ham is covered in that gorgeous, sticky glaze.
• Keep an eye on the ham in the final minutes of baking—sugar can burn quickly at high temps.
• Save the pan drippings! They make an incredible sauce to drizzle over the sliced ham or mashed potatoes.

### Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the glaze for a little heat.
• Citrus Twist: Swap the apple cider vinegar for orange juice and add some grated orange zest for a fruity vibe.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve your honey-glazed ham alongside creamy scalloped potatoes, roasted green beans, and a bright cranberry relish for a complete feast!

### FAQs

• Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time? Absolutely! Make it up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently before using.
• What should I do with leftovers? Leftover ham is perfect for sandwiches, soups, or even a breakfast hash. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Can I use a boneless ham? Yes, but keep in mind that bone-in hams tend to be juicier and more flavorful.

There you have it—a golden, tender, and absolutely irresistible Honey-Glazed Ham! I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own. Be sure to comment below with your thoughts or tag me in your photos using #TheKitchensAid. Happy cooking!