Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham

Table of Contents

Ah, the glorious aroma that fills the kitchen when a Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham is baking! This delightful dish first danced into my heart during a brisk holiday gathering years ago. It was one of those mornings where the world outside was a bit frosty, and steaming mugs of cocoa were being passed around like hugs. As we gathered around the table, the sweet, caramelized scent of ham wafted through the air, creating a cozy warmth that felt like a cherished blanket.

The first bite was heavenly: tender meat with a sugary glaze that crackled gently under my fork. I fell in love with the balance of sweetness and the robust flavors of spices. Since that day, it’s become a staple in my home, perfect for celebrations or even just a quiet Sunday dinner. I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you, because trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why this ham has a special place in my heart (and my kitchen)! Now, let’s dive into this delicious adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Just a few simple steps and you’ll have a show-stopper on your dinner table.
• Flavor Packed: Sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors meld together beautifully.
• Perfect for any occasion: From holidays to casual gatherings, it always wows the crowd.
• Keeps Well: It’s a fantastic make-ahead option, with plenty of leftover potential.
• Sensational presentation: You’ll impress your family or guests with the gorgeous caramelized finish!

Ingredients

• 1 Spiral-Cut Ham: Look for a pre-cooked ham for ease. It’s easy to slice and so flavorful!
• 1 cup Brown Sugar: This is your sweet base, creating a lovely caramelized crust.
• 1/2 cup Honey: Adds a floral sweetness that complements the ham perfectly.
• 1/4 cup Dijon Mustard: Provides a tangy depth that balances out the sweetness.
• 1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar: A splash of acidity to brighten the glaze and cut through richness.
• 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon: Infuses warm, cozy notes, reminiscent of holiday gatherings.
• 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cloves: Offers a subtle spiciness that dances beautifully with the other flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Just a hint to give balance and a little zing to the sweetness.

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

1. Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This ensures your ham will cook evenly and beautifully!

2. Make the Glaze

In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper until well combined. Ah, that sweet and spicy aroma is just heavenly!

3. Prepare the Ham

Place your spiral-cut ham in a roasting pan with the cut side facing down. This allows it to stay juicy while it roasts!

4. Brush the Glaze

Generously brush the lovely glaze all over the ham, letting it lovingly drape into those spiral cuts. You want every inch to be coated in that sweet goodness!

5. Bake with Love

Cover your ham loosely with foil and pop it in the oven for about 1.5 hours. As it bakes, baste it occasionally with the leftover glaze. This is where the magic happens, and your kitchen starts to smell like a dream!

6. Uncover and Caramelize

For the last 30 minutes, remove the foil to let that beautiful glaze caramelize. You’ll see the ham transform into a shiny, golden masterpiece. Let it rest for a while before slicing; oh, the anticipation!

Pro Tips for Success

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) for perfect juiciness.
• Save the glaze for basting! It intensifies the flavor and creates those darling charred bits.
• For added texture, you can broil the ham for a few minutes after baking for an even crispier finish.
• Open a window to let the incredible aroma waft outside, and get ready to hear those compliments!

Flavor Variations

• Swap in maple syrup for a unique twist that brings a deep, rich flavor to your glaze.
• Add some fresh orange juice and zest for a refreshing citrus kick.
• Experiment with spices: a touch of nutmeg or ginger can add a delightful warmth.
• Consider adding chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an earthy note.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this glorious ham with creamy mashed potatoes or a vibrant green bean casserole for a classic dinner vibe. A festive salad with toasted nuts adds a lovely crunch and brightness. For drinks, a chilled sparkling cider or a light red wine works wonders to balance the sweetness!

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can prepare the glaze a day or two in advance! Store it in the fridge and bring it to room temperature before using. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Leftovers

Embrace the magic of leftovers! Use them in savory sandwiches, toss them in a hearty salad, or whip up a comforting ham and cheese quiche. The possibilities are endless—and so tasty!

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze leftover ham! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to keep it fresh. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight.

Reheating

For the best flavor and texture, reheat your ham slices in a skillet over low heat. Alternatively, cover the ham in foil and place it in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through. Microwaving can work too, but it may dry out the ham, so be cautious!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of ham?
Absolutely! This glaze works beautifully with any cooked ham, but the spiral-cut version is so easy to serve.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but double-check your Dijon mustard’s label.

Can I double this recipe for a bigger ham?
Yes, you can absolutely double or adjust the glaze ingredients to fit a larger ham.

How do I cut a spiral ham?
The spiral cut makes it easy—just follow the pre-cut slices, and they’ll fall away effortlessly!

Final Thoughts

As you embark on this delightful culinary journey, remember that the heart of cooking lies in the love you pour into your creations. A Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham is not just a dish; it’s a beautiful way to bring warmth and joy to your table. So gather your loved ones, share stories, and enjoy the flavors that feel like home. Happy cooking, dear friends!

With love and cozy kitchen vibes,
Chef Emily
vibingRecipes.com