Imagine a ham so succulent, so gloriously glazed, that it becomes the star of your holiday table—a showstopper that transforms an ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary experience. This Cranberry Glazed Oven Roasted Ham isn't just a recipe; it's a flavor journey that combines the sweet-tangy richness of cranberry with the classic elegance of perfectly roasted ham. Whether you're hosting a festive family gathering or looking to impress your dinner guests, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and create memories that will last long after the last delicious bite.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked ham (about 5-6 lbs)
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- Cloves for studding (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove the ham from refrigeration and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even heating.
- If the ham has a thick layer of fat, score the surface in a diamond pattern using a sharp knife, creating shallow cuts about 1/4 inch deep. This helps the glaze penetrate and creates an attractive presentation.
- Optional: Stud the ham with whole cloves by inserting them at the intersections of the scored diamond pattern for additional flavor and traditional presentation.
- Place the ham in a large roasting pan, fat side up, and cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together cranberry sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth and well combined to create the glaze.
- Roast the ham in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, or about 15-20 minutes per pound. For a 5-6 pound ham, this typically means
- 5-2 hours of total cooking time.
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, remove the foil and begin basting the ham with the cranberry glaze every 10 minutes, creating a rich, caramelized exterior.
- The ham is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the ham to check.
- Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.
- Transfer the ham to a serving platter, brush with any remaining glaze, and serve warm. Garnish with fresh cranberries or rosemary sprigs if desired.
Tips
- • Room Temperature Magic: Always let your ham sit out for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even heating and prevent dry edges.• Scoring Technique: Create those beautiful diamond-cut patterns on the ham's surface to help the glaze penetrate and create a stunning presentation.• Glaze Like a Pro: Baste frequently during the last 30 minutes of cooking to develop a rich, caramelized exterior that will have everyone asking for your secret.• Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to hit the perfect 140°F internal temperature—no guesswork, just guaranteed deliciousness.• Resting Ritual: Allow your ham to rest 15-20 minutes after cooking. This crucial step ensures every slice remains juicy and flavor-packed.• Presentation Perfection: Garnish with fresh cranberries or rosemary sprigs for that professional chef touch that makes your dish Instagram-worthy.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 90mg