If you're looking to impress your family and friends with a show-stopping centerpiece for your next gathering, look no further than this Honey Baked Spiral Ham! With its succulent, juicy meat and a sweet, caramelized glaze that dances on your taste buds, this dish is sure to steal the spotlight at any table. Imagine the delightful aroma wafting through your home as this beauty bakes to perfection, creating an inviting atmosphere that draws everyone in. Whether it's a holiday feast or a casual dinner, this recipe promises to elevate your culinary game. Ready to learn how to create this mouthwatering masterpiece? Let’s dive into the details!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 10 servings
Ingredients
- 1 spiral-cut ham (8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove the ham from refrigeration and allow it to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Place the spiral-cut ham in a large roasting pan, with the cut side facing down. This helps preserve the ham's moisture and prevents it from drying out during baking.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and apple cider vinegar until a smooth glaze is formed.
- Using a basting brush, generously coat the entire surface of the ham with the prepared honey glaze, ensuring even coverage between the spiral cuts.
- Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning and help retain moisture during cooking.
- Place the ham in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
- Every 20-25 minutes, remove the foil and baste the ham with additional glaze to enhance flavor and create a beautiful caramelized exterior.
- During the last 15-20 minutes of cooking, remove the foil completely to allow the glaze to caramelize and create a slightly crispy surface.
- Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Slice along the spiral cuts and serve warm, drizzling any remaining glaze over the top for extra flavor.
Tips
- Choose the Right Ham: Opt for a high-quality spiral-cut ham that weighs between 8 to 10 pounds for the best results. The spiral cuts make it easy to serve and ensure even cooking.
- Room Temperature Matters: Allow your ham to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly and reduces cooking time.
- Basting is Key: Don’t skip the basting! Every 20-25 minutes, remove the foil and brush on more of that delicious honey glaze. This not only enhances the flavor but also creates a beautiful, caramelized crust.
- Monitor Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham. It should reach 140°F (60°C) for optimal juiciness and flavor.
- Rest Before Slicing: After removing the ham from the oven, let it rest for 15-20 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
- Extra Glaze: Don’t forget to drizzle any remaining glaze over the sliced ham before serving. It adds an extra burst of sweetness that your guests will love!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 505kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 0mg
