Make your holiday or family dinner special with this tasty glazed ham recipe. It’s easy to make and can be cooked in the oven or a Crock Pot. This makes it perfect for any event. The dish features a tender, juicy ham smothered in a sweet honey butter glaze and a pineapple brown sugar mix.
Key Takeaways
- Oven and Crock Pot cooking methods provided for maximum convenience
- Honey butter glaze and pineapple brown sugar mixture add exceptional flavor
- Tender, juicy bone-in spiral sliced half ham is the perfect centerpiece
- Versatile recipe suitable for holidays, family gatherings, and everyday meals
- Step-by-step instructions and cooking tips ensure perfect results every time
Why This Glazed Ham Recipe Is Perfect for Any Occasion
Goodbye to dry hams, hello to our amazing glazed ham recipe. It’s perfect for any meal, from a cozy Sunday dinner to a big holiday feast. The sweet glaze and juicy meat will impress everyone.
Family-Friendly Comfort Food
This glazed ham recipe is loved by all. It has the right mix of flavor and texture. The ham is savory, and the glaze is sweet and sticky.
The glaze is made with apricot jam, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and spices. It makes the ham a comforting dish that everyone wants more of.
Holiday Table Centerpiece
Make your holiday table shine with this glazed ham. It serves 10-15 people, perfect for big gatherings. It looks elegant with rosemary and cloves.
Make-Ahead Convenience
This recipe is great because you can make it ahead of time. Bake the ham, then reheat and glaze it just before serving. It’s easy and stress-free, perfect for any meal.
| Recipe Yield | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Calories per Serving |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10-15 servings | 5 minutes | 2 hours and 10 minutes | 2 hours and 15 minutes | 20 servings | 437 |
This ham recipe is great for any occasion. It’s delicious, looks impressive, and is easy to prepare ahead of time. It’s a hit for any easy dinner or special event.
Essential Ingredients for Your Ham
Creating the perfect glazed ham starts with the right ingredients. From the ham itself to the glaze, each part is key. Let’s explore the must-haves for this delicious dish.
The base of your glazed ham is the ham ingredients. Choose a bone-in spiral sliced half ham, about 5-6 lbs. Dakin Farm suggests 1/4 lb per person for buffets or 1/2 lb for sit-down dinners.
The glaze components make the ham truly special. The glaze is a mix of brown sugar, white sugar, and spices like cinnamon and ginger. These spices create a sweet, spiced coating that caramelizes beautifully.
To add more flavor, a honey butter mixture is often used. This blend of honey and melted butter adds a rich, indulgent taste that complements the ham’s sweetness.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bone-in Spiral Sliced Half Ham | 5-6 lbs |
| Brown Sugar | 3 cups |
| Spicy Brown Mustard | 1/2 cup |
| Apple Cider Vinegar | 3 tablespoons |
| Dr Pepper or Coke | 1 can |
| Honey | 1/2 cup |
| Butter | 1/4 cup |
| Cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Mustard Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
With these ham ingredients, glaze components, and honey butter mixture, you’re set to make an amazing glazed ham. It’s sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.
The Perfect Honey Butter Glaze Preparation
Making the perfect honey butter glaze for your ham is key to boosting its flavor. This sweet and savory mix will turn golden on the ham’s surface. It creates a delicious crust that pairs well with the juicy meat inside.
Mixing the Base Ingredients
Begin by melting 1/4 cup of unsalted butter in a saucepan. Once melted, add 1/2 cup of honey, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and a pinch of cinnamon. Stir until the flavors mix well.
Creating the Sugar Mixture
In another bowl, mix 1 cup of packed brown sugar, 1/2 cup of white sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground clove, 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon of ground allspice, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger. Make sure the dry ingredients are well mixed.
Incorporating Spices
To make a balanced glaze, slowly add the sugar mixture to the honey butter base. Stir constantly until everything is fully mixed. This spice blend will enhance the flavor, making your honey butter glazed ham a hit at any gathering.
The secret to a great honey butter glaze is balancing sweet and savory. Spices like cinnamon, clove, and ginger add depth, creating a perfect harmony that complements the ham’s natural taste.
Choosing the Right Ham Type and Size
Choosing the right ham is key to a perfect glazed ham. The right ham can make your dish shine. Here are a few tips to help you pick the best ham for your meal.
Go for a 4-5 pound boneless, spiral cut ham that’s already cooked. This ham stays moist and is easy to slice. Don’t use spiral hams in the Crock Pot, as they dry out.
Make sure the ham fits in your cooking dish. Measure your dish before buying to avoid stress.
Bone-in hams are juicier but harder to slice. A whole ham (15-20 pounds) is great for big groups. But, it might be too much for smaller parties.
Plan for 3/4 to 1 pound of bone-in ham or 1/2 pound of boneless ham per person. This way, you’ll have enough for everyone without too much left over.
Oven Method Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing a delicious oven-baked ham is simple. Just follow these easy steps to get a perfectly cooked and flavorful ham.
Temperature and Timing Guidelines
First, heat your oven to 275°F. Put the ham on a roasting rack in a pan. Pour pineapple juice in the pan’s bottom. This keeps the ham moist and adds sweetness.
Basting Techniques
- Brush the ham with honey butter glaze for an even coat.
- Cover the ham loosely with foil to prevent drying out.
- Baste the ham 3-4 times during cooking, which takes about 15 minutes per pound.
Final Glazing Process
When the ham hits 140°F, it’s time for the final glaze. Remove the foil, apply sugar glaze, and broil at 450°F for up to 5 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
| Ham Type | Cooking Time | Internal Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless Ham (5-8 lbs) | 2-3 hours at 325°F | 160°F |
| Boneless Fully Cooked Ham (2-6 lbs) | 1-1.75 hours at 325°F | 140°F |
| Spiral Sliced Ham (8-10 lbs) | 1.5-1.75 hours at 325°F | 140°F |
| Smoked Ham (10-14 lbs) | 15-18 minutes per pound at 325°F | 140°F |
| Fresh Uncooked Ham (5-8 lbs) | 35-40 minutes per pound at 325°F | 145°F |
| Country Ham | Soak 4-12 hours, boil 20-25 minutes per pound, then bake at 400°F for 15 minutes | N/A |
By following these steps and guidelines, you’ll get a perfectly cooked and beautifully glazed oven-baked ham. It will impress everyone at your table.
Crock Pot Cooking Method
If you love the ease of a slow cooker, this Crock Pot glazed ham recipe is for you. It makes a tender, juicy, and caramelized ham. It’s perfect for your next meal.
Begin by putting a 4-5 pound boneless, spiral-sliced ham in a 7-8 quart slow cooker. Pour the honey butter glaze over it, making sure it’s all coated. Then, cover the Crock Pot and cook on low for 5-6 hours. Baste it with the glaze every hour if you can.
“The secret to a perfectly cooked slow cooker ham is low and slow cooking, which allows the flavors to meld and the meat to become deliciously tender.”
When the ham is hot and the glaze is caramelized, move it to a foil-lined baking sheet. Put it under the broiler for 2-3 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning, until the glaze shines.
- Cook time for the Crock Pot glazed ham is 5-6 hours on low heat.
- Baste the ham with the glaze every hour for best results.
- Finish the ham under the broiler for a beautiful caramelized glaze.
The Crock Pot method makes cooking easy and hands-off. It results in a tender, juicy ham with a perfect glaze. It’s a simple way to wow your guests with a delicious main course.
How to Achieve the Perfect Caramelized Glaze
To take your glazed ham to the next level, focus on perfecting the caramelization. Apply the sugar mixture carefully and use the right techniques. This will turn a simple baked ham into a flavorful masterpiece.
Broiling Tips
To get the best caramelized ham glaze, brush the sugar mixture on during the last 10-15 minutes of baking. Then, place the ham on the top rack and broil at 450°F for up to 5 minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
You can also use a handheld kitchen torch or heating gun. This lets you caramelize the glaze perfectly, creating a golden-brown crust.
Glazing Techniques
- Spread the glaze in thin, even layers. Let each layer set a bit before adding the next. This creates a rich, sticky glaze that sticks well to the ham.
- Keep basting the ham with pan juices. This helps the glaze stick and gives it a shiny, caramelized look.
- For more flavor, add a splash of vinegar or citrus juice to the glaze. It balances the sweetness and improves caramelization.
By using these expert tips, you’ll get a perfect caramelized ham glaze. Your guests will love it. Just remember to watch closely and experiment to find what works best for you.
Temperature Guide and Doneness
Getting the perfect ham internal temperature and cooking doneness is key. The ham is ready when a meat thermometer shows 140°F in the thickest part. For pre-cooked hams, you’re just warming them up to this safe temperature, adding great flavor.
To keep the ham moist, don’t overcook it. Once it hits the right temperature, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This step makes sure the ham stays juicy and full of flavor.
- Pre-cooked, bone-in half ham (5 to 7 lbs): Oven temp 325°F, time 22-25 minutes per pound, internal temp 140°F.
- Pre-cooked, bone-in whole ham (10 to 14 lbs): Oven temp 325°F, time 18-20 minutes per pound, internal temp 140°F.
- Pre-cooked, boneless ham (6 to 12 lbs): Oven temp 325°F, time 15-24 minutes per pound, internal temp 140°F.
- Uncooked, bone-in half ham (5 to 8 lbs): Oven temp 325°F, time 35-40 minutes per pound, internal temp 145°F.
- Uncooked, bone-in whole ham (12 to 16 lbs): Oven temp 325°F, time 22-26 minutes per pound, internal temp 145°F.
- Uncooked, boneless shoulder roll cut (2 to 4 lbs): Oven temp 325°F, time 35-40 minutes per pound, internal temp 145°F.
- Uncooked, boneless ham shoulder (5 to 8 lbs): Oven temp 325°F, time 30-25 minutes per pound, internal temp 145°F.
Always aim for an internal temperature of 65°C (149°F) for the ham. Whether baking or simmering, keep a close eye on the temperature. This way, you’ll get a juicy, tasty ham.
Best Side Dishes to Serve
Choosing the right side dishes can make your meal with glazed ham even better. You can pick from classic favorites or try something new. These options are great for any holiday or family dinner.
Traditional Pairings
Classic dishes like potato salad, mashed potatoes, twice-baked potato casserole, and corn casserole are always a hit. They provide a comforting contrast to the ham’s richness.
Modern Accompaniments
For a fresh twist, try side dishes with unique flavors and textures. Options like green bean casserole without mushrooms, sweet corn casserole, or honey butter skillet corn add variety. They balance the ham’s sweetness and savory flavors beautifully.
| Side Dish | Description | Servings |
|---|---|---|
| Southern Collard Greens | Pair this recipe with ham for a classic Southern combination. | 4-6 |
| Homemade Mac & Cheese | This creamy, cheesy dish is perfect for family dinners or holiday spreads. | 6-8 |
| Roasted Green Beans | A simple, yet delicious, vegetable side that complements ham perfectly. | 4-6 |
| Hawaiian Macaroni Salad | A refreshing and flavorful side dish for Easter potlucks and BBQs. | 6-8 |
| Crispy Parmesan Potatoes | Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these potatoes are a crowd-pleaser. | 4-6 |
These side dishes, both classic and modern, will make your ham meal unforgettable. They offer a mix of tastes, textures, and looks to impress your guests.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Enjoying leftover glazed ham is easy with the right storage and reheating methods. You can enjoy the flavors for days after your special event.
Leftover ham storage: Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it in slices for up to 3 months.
To reheat the glazed ham, add broth or glaze to the pan. This keeps it moist. Reheat it on the stovetop, covered, for the best taste. You can also add it to casseroles or soups for extra flavor.
“The key to reviving leftover glazed ham is to add a bit of liquid and reheat it slowly to avoid drying it out.”
Reheating Guidelines
- Reheat ham slices in the oven at 275°F for less than 10 minutes.
- Thaw frozen ham slices in the refrigerator for about 24 hours before reheating.
- Reheat the entire ham at 150°C/300°F (130°C fan) for 2-2 1/2 hours, covering loosely.
- Reheat just the glaze at 180°C/350°F (160°C fan) for 30-40 minutes.
Follow these simple tips to enjoy your glazed ham’s delicious flavors for days. Use it in sandwiches, soups, or casseroles to add a tasty twist to your meals.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Getting a moist and flavorful glazed ham can be tricky. But, with some troubleshooting, you can fix any problems and make sure your ham is always delicious. Let’s look at some common issues and how to solve them.
Avoiding Dryness
Many people struggle with dry and tough ham. To avoid this, stick to the cooking time and temperature. Baste the ham with glaze or pan juices to keep it moist. Don’t overcook, as this is the main cause of dryness.
If the ham looks dry, try covering it with foil. This helps keep the moisture in.
Glaze Consistency Solutions
The glaze can sometimes be too thin or too thick. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few minutes to thicken. For a thick glaze, add a bit more pineapple juice or water.
Adjust the sweetness or tanginess by adding more honey or mustard. By fixing these common problems, your glazed ham will be moist and flavorful. The glaze will stick well to the ham. With a bit of care, your ham will be the highlight of any meal or holiday.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing your ham in advance can save you a lot of time. It lets you enjoy a tasty, stress-free meal. With these tips, you can start on your glazed ham early and impress everyone with little effort.
Prepare the Glaze Ahead of Time
Mix the honey butter glaze up to 2 days before. Keep it in the fridge. Then, warm it up gently before brushing it on the ham.
Cook the Ham a Day Early
You can bake the ham a day before. Slice it after it’s cooked and store it with some glaze. Reheat the slices when you’re ready to serve. This ensures the glaze is caramelized just right.
Freeze Leftover Slices
Freeze the cooked ham slices with glaze in individual bags. This makes reheating quick and easy. It also helps reduce food waste.
Using these make-ahead tips, you can prepare your glazed ham early. This way, you can relax and enjoy the holiday or special occasion with your family.
Leftover Ham Recipe Ideas
Don’t let leftover ham from your glazed ham dish go to waste! Turn it into tasty meals. Try savory casseroles or hearty soups. These recipes will make your extra ham satisfying and delicious.
- Macaroni and Cheese Ham Casserole: Dice the ham and mix it with creamy macaroni and cheese. It’s a comforting, protein-rich dish.
- Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders: Layer ham, Swiss cheese, and honey mustard glaze on Hawaiian rolls. It’s a tasty, easy snack.
- Ham Broccoli Rice Casserole: Mix cubed ham, broccoli, and cheesy rice. It’s a filling, one-pan meal.
Keep going! Get creative with your ham leftovers and try these ideas:
- Dice ham and add it to omelets, quiches, or frittatas. It’s a protein-packed breakfast.
- Simmer ham in bean soup or split pea soup. It’s a flavorful, satisfying meal.
- Add cubed ham to salads, mac and cheese, or pasta. It adds savory flavor.
- Make ham and cheese breakfast burritos or sandwiches on croissants. It’s a tasty, easy option.
These ham leftover recipes are easy and versatile. They turn extra ham into new, delicious dishes. Get creative and repurpose ham to enjoy every last bite of your glazed ham.
Nutritional Information and Serving Size
Enjoying a glazed ham is fun, but knowing the nutritional facts is key. A 3-ounce serving of cured ham has about 100 calories. It also has 4g of fat, 1g of carbs, and 14g of protein. Plus, it’s a great source of selenium, with 60-75% of your daily needs in one serving.
Iberian-cured ham is special because it can improve blood vessel health. A 5-ounce serving of gammon has 123 calories, 5g of fat, 18g of protein, and 1g of carbs.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 233 |
| Carbohydrates | 26g |
| Protein | 12g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 35mg |
| Sodium | 686mg |
| Potassium | 184mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 25g |
A good serving size is 3-4 ounces of ham. But, adjust it to fit your diet and taste. For a bone-in ham, serve about 1/2 pound per person. Boneless hams need about 1/3 pound per person.
“Pair ham with lower-sodium side dishes like baked sweet potatoes, green beans, or artichokes to enhance its nutritional profile.”
Recipe Variations and Modifications
This easy glazed ham recipe is perfect for getting creative. You can add a tropical twist or a festive touch. Try using pineapple juice for a summer vibe or cranberry juice for a holiday feel. For a warm flavor, add cinnamon and nutmeg. Or, use maple syrup for a richer sweetness.
Flavor Adaptations
- Pineapple Juice Glaze: Replace the orange juice with equal parts pineapple juice for a tropical flair.
- Cranberry Glaze: Swap the orange juice for cranberry juice for a festive touch.
- Spiced Glaze: Add a dash of cinnamon and nutmeg to the honey-mustard base for a warming, fragrant glaze.
- Maple Syrup Glaze: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a deeper, more earthy sweetness.
Dietary Considerations
Want a healthier ham? Try using less sugar or add savory herbs and spices. This way, you can enjoy the flavors without the sweetness. The ham can also be adjusted for different diets.
| Dietary Modification | Suggested Adjustments |
|---|---|
| Low-Sugar |
|
| Gluten-Free |
|
| Dairy-Free |
|
Experiment with flavors and dietary options to make this ham recipe your own. It’s a great way to enjoy a delicious meal that fits your taste and dietary needs.
Conclusion
This easy glazed ham recipe is perfect for any meal, big or small. It has a sweet and savory taste, a tender texture, and works well in the oven or slow cooker. It’s a hit with families and makes entertaining easy.
Whether it’s for a holiday or a simple dinner, this easy glazed ham will wow everyone. You can adjust it to fit your taste or dietary needs. It’s great for any meal, thanks to its flexibility in cooking methods.
Try this easy glazed ham recipe and make it a favorite in your kitchen. Its mix of sweet and savory flavors will please your taste buds. It’s a great way to create memories with your loved ones.
FAQ
What makes this glazed ham recipe so versatile and perfect for any occasion?
This glazed ham recipe is versatile because it can be cooked in the oven or Crock Pot. It uses a honey butter glaze and a sweet pineapple brown sugar mixture. This makes it great for holidays, family gatherings, or everyday meals.
Why is this glazed ham considered a family-friendly comfort food?
This glazed ham is comforting and full of flavor. It’s also impressive as a holiday centerpiece. The recipe is easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making meal planning stress-free.
What are the key ingredients in this glazed ham recipe?
The main ingredients are a bone-in spiral sliced half ham, pineapple juice, butter, honey, cinnamon, garlic powder, and mustard powder. The sugar glaze includes brown sugar, white sugar, and spices like cinnamon, clove, paprika, nutmeg, allspice, and ginger.
How do you prepare the honey butter glaze and sugar glaze?
To make the honey butter glaze, mix melted butter, honey, cinnamon, garlic powder, and mustard powder. For the sugar glaze, blend brown sugar, white sugar, and spices. Then, combine these mixtures for a flavorful glaze.
What type of ham works best for this recipe?
Choose a 4-5 pound boneless, spiral cut ham that’s fully cooked. This type stays juicy and is easy to slice. Avoid using spiral hams in the Crock Pot as they dry out.
How do you prepare the ham in the oven?
Preheat the oven to 275°F. Place the ham on a roasting rack in a pan with pineapple juice. Brush with honey butter mixture and cover with foil. Bake for 15 minutes per pound, basting 3-4 times. Remove foil, apply sugar glaze, and broil at 450°F for up to 5 minutes to caramelize.
How do you prepare the ham in the Crock Pot?
Place the ham in a 7-8 quart slow cooker and pour the glaze over it. Cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours, basting with glaze every hour. Once cooked, transfer the ham to a foil-lined baking sheet to broil and caramelize the glaze if desired.
How do you achieve the perfect caramelized glaze on the ham?
Brush the ham with sugar mixture near the end of cooking. Broil at 450°F for up to 5 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. Alternatively, use a heating gun for precise caramelization. Apply the glaze in layers, allowing each to set slightly before adding more for a rich, sticky finish.
What is the ideal internal temperature for the cooked ham?
The ham is done when a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 140°F. For pre-cooked hams, you’re reheating to this safe temperature while infusing flavor. Avoid overcooking to prevent dryness.
What are some traditional and modern side dish pairings for the glazed ham?
Traditional pairings include potato salad, mashed potatoes, twice-baked potato casserole, and corn casserole. For modern accompaniments, consider green bean casserole without mushrooms, sweet corn casserole, or honey butter skillet corn.
How should you store and reheat leftover glazed ham?
Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze in portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a little broth or leftover glaze to maintain moisture. Reheat gently in a covered pan on the stove or use in casseroles and soups for best results.
What are some common troubleshooting tips for this glazed ham recipe?
To avoid dryness, ensure proper cooking time and temperature. Baste regularly and avoid overcooking. If the glaze is too thin, simmer it longer or add a cornstarch slurry to thicken. For a glaze that’s too thick, thin with additional pineapple juice or water. Adjust sweetness or tanginess by adding more honey or mustard as needed.
Can this glazed ham recipe be prepared in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the glaze up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Warm it before using. You can also cook the ham a day ahead, slice, and store it with some glaze. Reheat it gently before serving. For freezing, slice the cooked ham and portion it with glaze into freezer bags for easy future meals.
How can you use up leftover glazed ham?
Use leftover ham in macaroni & cheese ham casserole, baked ham & cheese sandwiches on Hawaiian rolls, or ham broccoli rice casserole. Dice ham for omelets, quiches, or add it to soups and salads. Create ham and bean soup or use it in breakfast dishes like ham and cheese breakfast burritos for versatile and delicious meals.
What are some nutritional facts and serving size guidelines for this glazed ham?
Per serving (based on 8 servings): Calories: 233kcal, Carbohydrates: 26g, Protein: 12g, Fat: 9g, Saturated Fat: 3g, Cholesterol: 35mg, Sodium: 686mg, Potassium: 184mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 25g. A typical serving size is about 3-4 ounces of ham. Adjust portion sizes based on dietary needs and preferences.
What are some flavor variations and dietary modifications for this glazed ham recipe?
Flavor adaptations include using pineapple juice instead of orange juice for a tropical twist, or cranberry juice for a festive touch. Add cinnamon and nutmeg for a spiced glaze, or use maple syrup instead of honey for an earthier sweetness. For dietary considerations, reduce sugar content by using sugar substitutes or focus on savory herbs and spices for flavor without added sweetness.
