Honey Glazed Ham

Table of Contents

Honey! There’s just something so wonderfully nostalgic about the smell of honey glazed ham wafting through my kitchen on a Sunday afternoon. I can still remember those family gatherings where my grandmother would prepare her famous ham, a centerpiece that brought everyone together at the table. The aroma of the caramelizing glaze would mingle with laughter and conversation while the savory scent of the ham filled the air. Each slice, oh-so-tender and bursting with sweetness, would melt in your mouth, and those first bites always felt like a warm hug.

I remember the first time I made this dish for my friends. As I pulled the ham from the oven, the glaze glistened invitingly, practically calling to us. Everyone gathered around, and I could feel the anticipation bubbling like the glaze itself! The moment they took that first bite, the room erupted in delight—smiles and complimenting forks clinking! Trust me, my dear friends and readers, this Honey Glazed Ham will become your favorite too. Not just because of its incredible taste, but for the memories you’ll create while making it and sharing it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortlessly Easy: Even if you’re not a seasoned chef, this recipe will make you feel like a kitchen pro!
• Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or family dinners—everyone loves a sweet glaze on ham!
• Flavor Explosion: The balance of honey, citrus, and spices creates an exquisite flavor that dances on your palate.
• Flexible and Fun: It’s easy to customize with your favorite flavors and sides.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prep ahead, making dinner stress-free and enjoyable!

Ingredients

• 1 fully cooked bone-in spiral ham (8lbs): Honestly, a spiral ham saves you the effort of slicing—it’s beautifully prepped to be served!
• 1 orange, sliced: Fresh orange slices not only look gorgeous but infuse the ham with delightful citrus aromas.
• 1 cup orange juice: This adds zest and moisture, enhancing the natural flavors of the ham.
• 1 cup dark brown sugar: For that rich, caramelized sweetness that caramelizes beautifully!
• 1 cup honey: Adds that luscious, sticky goodness that we all crave.
• 1/2 cup orange marmalade: Provides a chunky texture and a burst of orange flavor; plus, it gives a lift to the glaze!
• 1/4 cup dijon mustard: Just a touch adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness perfectly.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Because cinnamon and ham are a match made in flavor heaven!
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg: A warm spice that deeply complements the sweet and savory notes.
• 1/2 tsp Bayou City Lemon Pepper: This gives an extra zing and depth of flavor.
• 1/2 tsp cloves: One of my secret ingredients for that warm, holiday vibe.
• 1 tsp salt: A pinch of salt is essential in bringing all those flavors together without letting one dominate.

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s time to start filling your kitchen with those comforting scents!

Layer the Oranges

In a shallow roasting pan, arrange the orange slices. Pour the freshly squeezed orange juice all around them. This juicy base will both flavor and tenderize the ham—your ham deserves a lovely bed to rest on!

Prepare the Ham

Place a roasting rack in the pan and gently set the spiral ham on top. It’s like a warm throne for the star of the meal!

Make the Glaze

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, honey, orange marmalade, and a pinch of salt. Stir until just combined—it should feel like a sweet, sticky hug! Bring the mixture to a slight bubble, then let it simmer for about 4 minutes. The aroma will be delightful, bringing all the cozy feels!

First Bake

Pour half of the gorgeous glaze over the ham, letting it cascade into the crevices. Bake it uncovered for 50 minutes. You’ll want to take in that exquisite aroma as it fills your home!

Second Bake

After 50 minutes, drizzle the remaining glaze over the ham and return it to the oven for another 20 minutes. If you’re using a meat thermometer, aim for the ham to read 140°F (60°C). Your kitchen will smell absolutely divine!

Rest and Serve

Once the ham reaches its delicious temperature, remove it from the oven, tent it with foil, and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes. This encourages all those juices to redistribute, leading to a juicy, tender ham. Then, carve, serve, and share with pride while drizzling the remaining glaze on top!

Pro Tips for Success

• Don’t rush the glazing: Give the glaze time to bubble and thicken for maximum flavor.
• Let it rest: This is the hardest part, but your patience will reward you with juicy, flavorful ham.
• Experiment with citrus: Feel free to mix in lemon or lime juice for a fun twist!

Flavor Variations

• Swap out orange juice for apple or pineapple juice for a tropical vibe.
• Add in spices like smoked paprika or cayenne for a little heat in your glaze.
• Consider adding dried fruit or nuts for an additional texture and flavor surprise.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Honey Glazed Ham alongside roasted potatoes, steamed green beans, or a fresh, zesty salad. Pair it with a sparkling cider or a robust red wine for an elegant touch. For plating, don’t shy away from garnishes—fresh herbs or a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds work beautifully!

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can easily prep your glaze and slice your oranges a day ahead. Store the glaze in an airtight container in the fridge. Leftover ham can last up to a week in the fridge if stored well!

Leftovers

Reinvent your ham in sandwiches, omelets, or use it in a hearty soup. It makes a lovely addition to any dish, bringing that delightful flavor along for the ride.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze leftover ham! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, removing as much air as possible. Safe to freeze for about 2-3 months!

Reheating

When it’s time to enjoy your frozen ham, the oven is your best bet. Preheat to 325°F, wrap in foil, and heat until warm throughout. A skillet works great too—just add a splash of broth to keep it moist!

FAQs

Can I use another type of ham?
Absolutely! A boneless ham or even a smaller ham can work; just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I know when the ham is done?
The internal temperature should read 140°F (60°C) for best results. A meat thermometer is your best friend here!

Can I make this ham ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the glaze and prep the ham a day prior. Just bake it on the day you plan to serve.

What should I do with the bone?
Don’t toss that bone! It’s perfect for flavoring soups and stocks—delicious and economical!

Final Thoughts

Oh, friends, I just can’t tell you how much joy this Honey Glazed Ham brings to my heart. It’s not just a dish, but a symbol of love and togetherness. Cooking should be about creating moments, and this recipe is bound to be a showstopper at your next gathering! So roll up your sleeves, pop on your apron, and let’s make some delicious memories! Happy cooking!