Honey Baked Ham Company Glaze Recipe: A Delicious Copycat Recipe
The Honey Baked Ham Company is renowned for its incredibly delicious, sweet and savory glaze. That signature glaze is what makes their hams so irresistible. While the exact recipe is a closely guarded secret, we've crafted a delicious copycat recipe that comes remarkably close! This recipe will allow you to recreate that unforgettable flavor at home, perfect for your holiday gatherings or any special occasion. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-follow guide.
Ingredients for the Honey Baked Ham Glaze
This recipe prioritizes readily available ingredients to make your glaze-making experience as smooth as possible.
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar: Provides the rich sweetness and caramel notes crucial for the glaze.
- 1/2 cup honey: Adds another layer of sweetness and a lovely golden hue. Choose a good quality honey for the best flavor.
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard: Offers a tangy sharpness that perfectly balances the sweetness.
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar: Adds a subtle tartness and depth of flavor. It also helps create a beautiful glossy finish.
- 2 tablespoons orange marmalade: Contributes a citrusy zing and a lovely texture to the glaze.
- 1 tablespoon ground cloves: A warm spice that adds a unique depth and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Provides a comforting warmth and complements the other spices beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice: A subtle spice that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a hint of warmth and zest.
Instructions for Making the Glaze
Follow these simple steps for a perfectly delicious Honey Baked Ham Company-style glaze:
Step 1: Combining the Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, orange marmalade, cloves, cinnamon, allspice, and ginger.
Step 2: Simmering the Glaze
Stir the mixture well to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning. Continue to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
Step 3: Glazing the Ham
Once your ham is cooked to the desired internal temperature (usually around 140°F or 60°C), generously brush the glaze all over the ham. You can baste the ham several times during the cooking process for a rich, flavorful coating. The last basting should be in the final 15-20 minutes of cooking to ensure a beautiful, glossy finish.
Tips for the Perfect Glaze
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of brown sugar or honey.
- Spice it up: Feel free to experiment with other spices, such as nutmeg or cardamom, to create your own unique flavor profile.
- Make it ahead: You can make the glaze ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Use a pastry brush: A pastry brush is ideal for evenly applying the glaze to the ham.
Serving Suggestions
This incredible glaze is perfect for any occasion. Serve your glazed ham with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or green bean casserole. The sweet and savory glaze pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile centerpiece for any meal.
This copycat recipe will help you recreate the magic of Honey Baked Ham Company's signature glaze in your own kitchen. Enjoy the process, and savor the delicious results! Remember to share your culinary creations and tag us in your social media posts! Happy cooking!