Holiday Glazed Ham Recipe: A Festive Favorite for Gatherings
The holidays are a time for gathering around the table, sharing laughter, and enjoying delicious food. One dish that never fails to bring warmth and flavor to the holiday spread is a perfectly glazed ham. This recipe takes a 5-6 pound ham and enhances it with a sweet, spiced glaze that adds depth to each bite. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a beautiful glazed ham that looks as good as it tastes!
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Ingredients for Holiday Glazed Ham
Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful holiday ham:
- 5-6 pounds cooked ham
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar – Adds a tangy touch and keeps the glaze from becoming too sweet.
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon mustard powder – Balances the sweetness with a hint of savory warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves – Adds a fragrant, holiday spice note.
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon powder – Enhances the sweetness and adds a festive touch.
- 1/4 teaspoon powdered ginger – Gives a hint of spiciness and warmth.
Instructions for a Perfect Holiday Glazed Ham
Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). This ensures even cooking and allows the glaze to develop a caramelized crust on the ham.
Prepare the Ham for Glazing
Place the ham in a roasting pan. Use a sharp knife to score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This allows the glaze to seep into the ham and flavor each slice. Scoring also adds a beautiful, decorative touch.
Create the Glaze
In a bowl, combine the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, water, mustard powder, ground cloves, cinnamon, and ginger. Whisk the ingredients together until the sugar is mostly dissolved and the glaze is smooth.
Apply the Glaze Generously
Brush the glaze evenly over the ham, making sure to coat all sides. This will ensure the entire ham gets a caramelized, flavorful crust.
Bake the Ham
Place the ham in the preheated oven and bake it for 1.5 to 2 hours. Baste the ham with additional glaze every 20-30 minutes to build up layers of flavor. The ham is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) and the glaze is rich and golden-brown.
Rest and Serve
Once baked, allow the ham to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, keeping each slice moist and tender.
Tips for Serving Your Holiday Glazed Ham
- Pair with Holiday Sides: This ham goes wonderfully with holiday classics like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and warm rolls.
- Make It a Showstopper: Garnish the platter with sprigs of rosemary or a few orange slices for a beautiful presentation.
- Use the Leftovers: Leftover glazed ham is incredibly versatile. Use it in sandwiches, breakfast scrambles, or as a topping for baked potatoes
Why This Glazed Ham Will Be the Talk of the Table
This Holiday Glazed Ham is a true crowd-pleaser with its balance of sweetness, spices, and savory flavors. Each bite brings out the comforting essence of the holidays, making it a memorable addition to any meal. Whether you’re hosting family, friends, or both, this glazed ham is sure to be the star of your holiday table.
Final Thoughts
A holiday glazed ham is more than just a dish; it’s a tradition that brings people together. The simplicity of this recipe allows you to create something extraordinary with minimal effort. The result is a beautifully caramelized ham that’s rich in flavor and perfect for sharing. Enjoy this festive dish as the centerpiece of your holiday feast, and let it fill your home with warmth, flavor, and joy.