Honey Baked Ham Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Guide
Are you looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for your next holiday gathering or special occasion? Look no further than this honey baked ham recipe. This recipe is surprisingly easy to follow, even for beginner cooks, and the result is a succulent, melt-in-your-mouth ham that will impress everyone at the table.
Why This Honey Baked Ham Recipe is the Best
This recipe stands out because it balances simplicity with exceptional flavor. We've carefully crafted a honey glaze that's both sweet and savory, perfectly complementing the richness of the ham. No complicated techniques or obscure ingredients are needed – just a few pantry staples and a little bit of time. This recipe is also highly versatile, allowing you to adjust the sweetness and spiciness to your liking. You'll be able to impress your guests with minimal effort!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- One fully cooked bone-in ham (approximately 8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup honey
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon ground allspice
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preparing the Ham:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Place the ham in a large roasting pan. Score the ham (optional but recommended): This helps the glaze penetrate and allows for better browning. Use a sharp knife to make shallow cuts across the fat, creating a diamond pattern.
Making the Honey Glaze:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cloves, allspice, and ginger.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth and bubbling. This takes about 5-7 minutes.
Baking the Ham:
- Pour the honey glaze over the ham, ensuring it's evenly coated.
- Bake for approximately 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Use a meat thermometer for accurate results. Baste the ham with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes during baking. This helps create a beautiful, glossy finish.
Resting and Serving:
- Once cooked, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham.
- Carve the ham and serve it with your favorite sides. It's delicious with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or green bean casserole.
Tips for an Extra Special Honey Baked Ham:
- Use a high-quality ham: The better the ham, the better the final result.
- Don't overbake: Overbaking can result in a dry ham. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the correct internal temperature.
- Get creative with your glaze: Experiment with different spices and flavors to create your own unique honey glaze. Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of spice, or some orange zest for a brighter citrusy note.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.
This honey baked ham recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With its simple steps and incredible flavor, it's the perfect dish for any special occasion. Enjoy!
