Imagine the enticing aroma of a perfectly baked picnic ham wafting through your home, its glossy brown sugar glaze shimmering in the light. This Brown Sugar Glazed Baked Picnic Ham is not just a dish; it’s the centerpiece of any gathering, guaranteed to impress your family and friends. With its sweet and tangy flavor profile, this recipe is a delightful fusion of traditional American cuisine that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a festive occasion or simply craving a comforting meal, this ham is sure to steal the show. Ready to elevate your cooking game? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 10 servings
Ingredients
- 1 (8-10 lb) picnic ham
- 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 slowly cooking the picnic ham, allowing the flavors to meld and the meat to become tender.
- While the oven is heating, prepare the picnic ham. If it has a thick layer of skin, you may want to score the skin in a diamond pattern. This not only helps the glaze penetrate the meat but also adds a decorative touch.
- 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. Mix these ingredients well until they form a smooth glaze. This mixture will provide a sweet and tangy flavor to the ham.
- Place the picnic ham in a large roasting pan, cut side down. This helps to retain moisture during the cooking process. If desired, you can add a small amount of water or apple cider to the bottom of the pan to create steam.
- Brush a generous amount of the brown sugar glaze over the top and sides of the ham. Make sure to cover it evenly to ensure that every bite is flavorful. Reserve some glaze for basting during the cooking process.
- Cover the roasting pan tightly with aluminum foil. This will help to keep the moisture in and prevent the ham from drying out as it bakes.
- Place the covered ham in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour. After this time, remove the foil and baste the ham with the reserved glaze. This will enhance the flavor and create a beautiful caramelized exterior.
- Return the ham to the oven, uncovered, and continue to bake for an additional 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn't burn; if it starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil.
- Check the internal temperature of the ham with a meat thermometer. It should reach at least 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption. If it hasn't reached this temperature yet, continue baking and check every 10 minutes.
- Once the ham is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender and flavorful.
- For presentation, you can garnish the ham with whole cloves, inserting them into the scored sections if desired. This adds a festive touch and enhances the aroma.
- Slice the ham and serve it warm. Enjoy your delicious Brown Sugar Glazed Baked Picnic Ham with your favorite sides for a delightful meal!
Tips
- Choose the Right Ham: Look for an 8-10 lb picnic ham for optimal flavor and tenderness. The size is perfect for feeding a crowd, ensuring everyone gets a taste of this delicious dish.
- Score the Skin: If your ham has a thick layer of skin, scoring it in a diamond pattern not only enhances its appearance but also allows the glaze to penetrate deeper, resulting in a more flavorful bite.
- Glaze Generously: Don’t be shy with the brown sugar glaze! Apply a generous coating on the ham and reserve some for basting. This will create a beautiful caramelized crust that adds depth to the flavor.
- Moisture is Key: To keep the ham juicy, cover the roasting pan tightly with aluminum foil during the first hour of baking. Adding a bit of water or apple cider to the bottom of the pan can also help create steam, further enhancing moisture retention.
- Baste for Perfection: After the first hour, remove the foil and baste the ham with the reserved glaze. This step is crucial for achieving that irresistible caramelization and enhancing the overall flavor.
- Monitor the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your ham reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C). This guarantees that it’s safe to eat while still being juicy and tender.
- Let it Rest: Allow the ham to rest for about 15 minutes after removing it from the oven. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, making each slice more succulent and flavorful.
- Garnish for Flair: For a festive touch, garnish the ham with whole cloves inserted into the scored sections. Not only does this add visual appeal, but it also enhances the aroma, making your dish even more inviting.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 110mg
