Perfect Honey-Glazed Ham: Sweet, Savory, and Simply Delicious 🍯🥩

Whether it’s for Easter, Christmas, or a cozy Sunday dinner, a Honey-Glazed Ham is the ultimate centerpiece for any special meal. This recipe delivers a beautifully caramelized glaze with the perfect balance of sweetness and savory flavors, paired with tender, juicy ham that will have your guests asking for seconds (and thirds!).

Let’s get into it—because nothing says celebration like the golden shine of honey-glazed perfection!

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Ingredients

For the Ham:

• 1 fully-cooked bone-in spiral ham (8–10 lbs)
• 1/2 cup water or apple juice (for the roasting pan)

For the Honey Glaze:

• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or orange juice for a citrusy twist)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves (optional for a warm spice kick)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ham

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Place the ham cut-side down in a roasting pan. Pour the water or apple juice into the bottom of the pan to keep the ham moist. Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake for 1 1/2 hours (about 10 minutes per pound), or until warmed through.

Step 2: Make the Glaze

1. In a small saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, butter, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and cloves.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Glaze the Ham

1. After the initial baking time, remove the foil from the ham. Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C).
2. Brush a generous layer of the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get into the spiral slices.

Step 4: Caramelize the Glaze

1. Return the ham to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 20–30 minutes. Brush with more glaze every 10 minutes to create a sticky, caramelized coating. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
2. Serve with the pan drippings as a sauce or alongside classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

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Pro Tips

• Spiral Ham Care: Be gentle when glazing so you don’t disturb the spiral cuts.
• Extra Glaze: Double the glaze recipe if you love your ham extra sticky and sweet!
• Leftovers Love: Use leftover ham in sandwiches, soups, or even a breakfast hash.

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Why This Recipe Works

The combination of honey and brown sugar creates a rich, caramelized crust, while the Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar balance the sweetness with a subtle tang. The added spices give it a depth of flavor that feels festive and comforting.

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This Honey-Glazed Ham is as beautiful to serve as it is delicious to eat. It’s a show-stopping centerpiece that will leave your family and friends raving for days.

Have you tried this recipe? Share your thoughts, tips, and photos in the comments below—I’d love to see your creations! 🍯✨