Get ready to elevate your holiday feasts with a show-stopping centerpiece that will have your guests raving! This Brown Sugar Honey Baked Ham is not just any ham; it’s a succulent masterpiece that combines the rich sweetness of brown sugar and honey with a tangy twist from Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar. Perfectly glazed and caramelized, this dish promises to be the star of your table, making every bite a delicious celebration. Whether it’s for a festive gathering or a cozy family dinner, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds! Dive into the details below and discover how to create this mouthwatering delight that’s sure to impress.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked ham (5-7 pounds)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- Cloves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This temperature is ideal for gently heating the ham and allowing the glaze to caramelize without burning.
- Prepare the ham by removing it from its packaging. If the ham has a thick layer of fat on the outside, you can score it in a diamond pattern with a sharp knife. This will help the glaze penetrate the meat and enhance the flavor.
- Place the ham in a large roasting pan, cut side down. This positioning helps retain moisture during the cooking process. If you have a rack, you can place the ham on the rack inside the pan to allow for even cooking.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of honey, 1/4 cup of Dijon mustard, and 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well blended and form a smooth glaze.
- Pour half of the glaze over the ham, making sure to coat it evenly. Use a brush or the back of a spoon to spread the glaze into the scored sections of the ham.
- Cover the roasting pan tightly with aluminum foil. This will help keep the moisture in and ensure the ham heats through without drying out. Place the ham in the preheated oven.
- Bake the ham for approximately 1 hour. After the first hour, remove the foil and brush the remaining glaze over the ham. This will create a beautiful, caramelized crust.
- Continue to bake the ham uncovered for an additional 30-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Baste the ham with the drippings from the pan every 15-20 minutes to enhance flavor and moisture.
- Once the ham is fully heated and has a nice caramelized appearance, remove it from the oven. Let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making for a juicier ham.
- If desired, garnish the ham with whole cloves for added flavor and presentation. Serve the ham warm, slicing it into thick or thin pieces as preferred, and enjoy your delicious Brown Sugar Honey Baked Ham!
Tips
- Choose the Right Ham: Opt for a fully cooked ham weighing between 5-7 pounds for the best results. This size ensures even cooking and plenty of delicious leftovers!
- Score for Flavor: Scoring the fat in a diamond pattern not only enhances the presentation but also allows the glaze to penetrate deeper into the meat, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
- Basting is Key: Don’t forget to baste the ham with its drippings every 15-20 minutes during the uncovered baking time. This step adds moisture and helps develop that irresistible caramelized crust.
- Rest Before Slicing: Allow the ham to rest for about 15 minutes after removing it from the oven. This crucial step helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice is juicy and tender.
- Get Creative with Garnishes: For a festive touch, consider garnishing your ham with whole cloves or fresh herbs. Not only do they add flavor, but they also enhance the visual appeal of your dish.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your Brown Sugar Honey Baked Ham with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad to create a well-rounded meal that everyone will love!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 466kcal
Carbohydrates: 43g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 300mg
