Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite honey baked ham recipe! This dish is a true showstopper, whether it’s gracing the table for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a cozy Sunday dinner. The sweet and sticky glaze forms a beautiful caramelized crust that makes every bite utterly irresistible. I remember the first time I made it for my family; the moment I pulled it out of the oven, the entire house filled with this heavenly aroma, and everyone gathered in the kitchen with wide eyes and hungry smiles. Trust me, it’s the kind of dish that brings people together, and leftovers are a delicious treat for sandwiches the next day. You’ll find it’s simple to make, yet it tastes like you’ve been slaving away in the kitchen for hours. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe—you won’t be disappointed!
Ingredients for Honey Baked Ham Recipe
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delicious honey baked ham. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 fully cooked ham (8-10 lbs): Look for a nice, juicy ham that’s already cooked. This will save you a ton of time!
- 1 cup honey: Use good quality honey for that sweet, sticky glaze that everyone loves.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: This adds a deeper sweetness and helps with that beautiful caramelization.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Just a touch of mustard gives it a lovely tang that balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves: These little spices pack a punch and add warmth to the flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Cinnamon brings a cozy, aromatic note that perfectly complements the ham.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Just a hint of pepper to round out the flavor and add a little kick.
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a ham that’s not only tasty but also looks gorgeous on the table. Let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Honey Baked Ham
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating! Set it to 325°F (163°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures your ham cooks evenly and helps that glaze caramelize beautifully. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Prepare the Ham
Now, grab your fully cooked ham and place it in a roasting pan, cut side down. This helps keep the juices in and makes for a moist, flavorful ham. Make sure it’s snug in the pan so it doesn’t wobble around while you’re basting it later. You’re all set for the next delicious step!
Make the Glaze
In a bowl, mix together the honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and black pepper. I like to use a whisk for this to ensure everything combines nicely. The aroma will hit you right away—it’s like a warm hug in a bowl! Make sure it’s smooth and well-combined; this glaze is going to be the star of the show.
Apply the Glaze
Time to brush that gorgeous glaze all over the ham! Use a pastry brush to generously coat the entire surface. Don’t be shy—get in there and really cover it well. You want each slice to be bursting with flavor. I always make sure to get some glaze into those nooks and crannies too!
Baking the Ham
Now, cover the ham loosely with foil. This helps keep it moist as it bakes. Pop it in the oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Here’s the fun part: every 30 minutes, you’ll want to take it out and baste it with the juices that gather in the pan. This keeps it juicy and flavorful! For the last 30 minutes, remove the foil so that the glaze can caramelize and get that irresistible golden color. Oh boy, your kitchen is going to smell heavenly!
Resting and Slicing
Once your ham is done baking, let it rest for about 15-20 minutes before you start slicing. This is crucial because it allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice tender and juicy. I like to cover it with a clean kitchen towel while it rests to keep it warm. Then, slice it up and prepare for the oohs and aahs from your family and friends!
Why You’ll Love This Honey Baked Ham Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The sweet and savory glaze creates a mouthwatering combination that will have everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds!).
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a stunning dish that feels like it took all day to prepare.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast, a family gathering, or just a cozy dinner at home, this ham fits right in with any celebration.
- Leftover Magic: The leftovers are just as delicious, making for fantastic sandwiches or hearty breakfasts the next day.
- Impressive Presentation: This ham looks gorgeous on the table, with its shiny, caramelized glaze that’s sure to impress your guests.
- Customizable Glaze: Feel free to play around with spices or add your favorite ingredients to the glaze for a personal touch!
Tips for Success
Achieving that perfect honey baked ham is all about a few key tips that I’ve learned along the way. Let’s make sure your ham turns out absolutely amazing!
- Choosing the Right Ham: Look for a bone-in, fully cooked ham for the best flavor and moisture. The bone adds richness, and it’s easier to slice. If you can find a spiral-cut ham, even better! It saves you time and ensures every piece is evenly coated with glaze.
- Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, you can reduce the amount of honey or brown sugar. A great trick is to add a splash of apple cider vinegar to balance out the sweetness without losing that delicious flavor. It’s all about finding your perfect balance!
- Basting Techniques: Don’t be shy about basting! I like to use a baster or a ladle to pour those flavorful drippings over the ham every 30 minutes. This helps keep the ham moist and enhances the glaze. Just be careful when removing the foil, as it can be hot and steamy!
- Letting It Rest: Remember, patience is key! Letting your ham rest after baking is crucial for juicy slices. Trust me, those 15-20 minutes make a world of difference.
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to get creative with your glaze! Adding a bit of orange juice or zest can brighten the flavor, or try incorporating crushed pineapple for a tropical twist. Make it your own!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress everyone at your next gathering with a stunning and delicious honey baked ham. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk nutrition! While this honey baked ham is a treat for the taste buds, it’s also good to know what you’re serving up. Here are the typical nutritional values per serving (about 3 oz):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Sugar: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 15g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and the size of your ham. But don’t worry too much about the numbers! Enjoying this delicious ham in moderation is what it’s all about. Now, let’s get back to enjoying that glorious dish!
FAQ about Honey Baked Ham Recipe
How do I adjust the cooking time for a larger ham?
If you have a larger ham, you’ll want to increase the baking time. For every additional pound over 10 pounds, add about 15-20 minutes to the cooking time. Just make sure to keep an eye on it and check for that beautiful caramelization!
Can I make this ham ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the ham a day in advance, let it cool, and then store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently in the oven before serving, and brush on a little extra glaze to freshen it up!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. If you have a lot left over, you can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just slice it up first for easy use in sandwiches later!
Can I serve this ham cold?
Definitely! This ham is delicious served cold, making it perfect for sandwiches or as part of a charcuterie board. Just slice it thinly, and it’s ready to enjoy!
What sides go well with honey baked ham?
Oh, so many options! I love pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can’t go wrong with classic sides like green bean casserole or sweet potato dishes either. It’s all about what makes your taste buds dance!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to store that delicious honey baked ham so you can enjoy it even after the big meal! If you find yourself with leftovers (which I hope you do because they’re fantastic!), here’s what you need to know:
- Storing Leftovers: Once your ham has cooled down, slice it into portions and place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh and flavorful in the refrigerator. You can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil if you prefer. It should stay good for about 3 to 5 days, but believe me, it won’t last that long!
- Freezing for Later: If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze the sliced ham. Just make sure to wrap each slice individually or use freezer bags. This way, you can easily grab a piece whenever you’re craving that sweet, sticky goodness. Frozen ham can last for up to 2 months, but I doubt it’ll stick around that long!
Now, when it comes to reheating:
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the ham slices in a baking dish, and add a splash of water or a bit of extra glaze to keep it moist. Cover it with foil to prevent drying out and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. The foil helps trap the steam and keeps your ham juicy!
- Microwave Method: If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave the slices on a microwave-safe plate. Just cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, checking until they’re warmed to your liking.
With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor every last bite of that honey baked ham! Enjoy those tasty leftovers, and don’t forget to get creative with sandwiches or breakfast ideas!
Drucken
Honey Baked Ham Recipe: 5 Secrets to Deliciousness
- Gesamtzeit: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Ertrag: 10-12 servings 1x
- Ernährung: Glutenfrei
Beschreibung
A delicious honey baked ham recipe that is perfect for any occasion.
Zutaten
- 1 fully cooked ham (8–10 lbs)
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Anweisungen
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Place the ham in a roasting pan, cut side down.
- In a bowl, mix honey, brown sugar, mustard, cloves, cinnamon, and pepper.
- Brush the mixture over the ham, covering it well.
- Cover the ham loosely with foil.
- Bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil for the last 30 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
- Let the ham rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Great for sandwiches the next day.
- Can be made ahead and reheated.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Kochen Zeit: 2 hours
- Kategorie: Main Dish
- Methode: Baking
- Küche: American
Ernährung
- Portionsgröße: 3 oz
- Kalorien: 250
- Zucker: 15g
- Natrium: 900mg
- Fett: 10g
- Gesättigte Fettsäuren: 3g
- Ungesättigte Fette: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Kohlenhydrate: 25g
- Faser: 0g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterin: 45mg
Keywords: honey baked ham recipe
