Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham

Table of Contents

There’s something deeply comforting about the scent of a Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham wafting through the house. Growing up, this dish was the centerpiece of every holiday celebration. I can still picture my mom pulling that shiny, golden-brown ham from the oven, its sweet aroma mingling with cinnamon and honey, wrapping us in warm, cozy vibes. The glaze glistened like a holiday treasure, inviting everyone to the table. Each slice revealed juicy, tender meat—flavorful, sweet, and oh so satisfying. This dish brings people together, evoking laughter, stories, and those cherished moments that make our hearts full. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it holds a special place in my kitchen and in my heart!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can shine!
• Quick Cooking Time: Bake at 15 minutes per pound, giving you plenty of time to prepare other dishes.
• Flavor Explosion: The perfect balance of sweetness and spice will dance on your palate.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves a well-prepared ham, making it ideal for gatherings and celebrations.
• Gorgeous Presentation: Glazed to perfection, it’s stunning enough to be the star of your table.
• Versatile Leftovers: Create new meals from the leftovers, keeping the joy going long after the first serving.

Ingredients

• 1 spiral-cut ham: This is the star of the show! A pre-sliced ham allows for even glazing and easy serving.
• 1 cup brown sugar: Adds a lovely sweetness that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Opt for dark brown sugar for a richer flavor!
• 1/2 cup honey: Pure liquid gold! It enriches the glaze with depth and a hint of floral notes.
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard: A touch of tang to balance the sweetness. Feel free to switch it up with whole grain mustard for texture!
• 1/4 cup apple juice: Adds a fruity note and extra moisture. Use unsweetened for a more balanced glaze.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Warmth and spice meld beautifully with the sweetness, evoking cozy autumn memories.
• 1/2 teaspoon cloves: A warm spice that adds complexity to our glaze — just a pinch goes a long way!

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). The warmth will soon fill the kitchen, a promise of deliciousness ahead!

Step 2: Mix the Glaze

In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple juice, cinnamon, and cloves. Whisk until smooth—this glaze should be as joyful and bright as your holiday spirit!

Step 3: Prepare the Ham

Place the spiral ham in a large roasting pan, cut side down. This helps keep it moist and succulent. Make sure it fits snugly—this ham deserves all the love!

Step 4: Glaze the Ham

Brush the glaze mixture generously over the surface of the ham, taking care to get it between the slices too. Imagine how beautiful and shiny it will look as it cooks—you’re doing fantastic!

Step 5: Cover and Bake

Loosely cover the ham with foil to keep it tender while baking. This is like tucking it into a cozy blanket!

Step 6: Bake Away

Bake for about 15 minutes per pound, allowing the ham to soak up all those amazing flavors. Baste it occasionally for that added shine—we want that glaze to sing!

Step 7: Time to Caramelize

During the last 30 minutes, remove the foil to let the glaze caramelize. You will know it’s ready when your kitchen smells like heaven!

Step 8: Rest Before Serving

Once it’s done, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This step is crucial for juicy ham—resist the urge to dive in right away!

Pro Tips for Success

• Use a meat thermometer: Aim for an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) to ensure it’s perfectly heated.
• Baste frequently: Every 20 minutes or so, give the ham a little love with the glaze.
• Elevate the flavors: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the glaze for an aromatic twist!
• Get creative: Experiment with different mustards or fruit juices for unique flavors.

Flavor Variations

• Spicy Sweet: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a little kick!
• Tropical Twist: Swap the apple juice for pineapple or orange juice for a fruity version.
• Maple Delight: Substitute maple syrup for honey for a different but equally delicious sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this glistening ham with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and fluffy rolls. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh herbs or slices of oranges. And don’t forget a glass of sparkling cider or a fruity punch to wash it all down!

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can prep the glaze the day before and store it in the fridge. Just cover it well! The ham can also be sliced ahead of time; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Leftovers

Love the leftovers! Use ham in sandwiches, omelets, or even a comforting ham and bean soup. Mix it with some cheese and veggies for a delicious quiche!

Freezing

Yes! You can freeze leftover ham. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or use a freezer-safe container. Properly stored, it can last up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before using!

Reheating

To reheat, the oven is king! Set it to 325°F (165°C), cover the ham with foil, and heat until warm throughout. For quick bites, the microwave works too—just be careful not to overdo it!

FAQs

Can I use a fresh ham instead of a pre-cooked one?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time and make sure it reaches the safe internal temperature.

Can I make this ham in a slow cooker?
Yes! Just apply the glaze and cook on low for about 6-8 hours. It will turn out beautifully tender!

What’s the best way to slice the ham?
Follow the spiral cuts; they guide you! A sharp knife will give you smooth, seamless slices.

Can I double the glaze recipe?
Of course! You’ll want plenty of that gooey goodness—some people might even want to slather it on their plates!

Final Thoughts

There you have it, my friends! This Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors, memories, and good times spent with loved ones. Remember to take your time, savor the moments, and let the smell of that ham fill your kitchen with warmth. Cooking is all about love and joy, and this recipe brings just that. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s make some delicious memories together!