The aroma of a Honey Baked Ham wafting through the kitchen is like a warm embrace, instantly making any space feel like home. This recipe isn’t just about the dish; it’s about bringing everyone together around the table, sharing stories and laughter. What makes this Honey Baked Ham truly special is not just its deliciously sweet glaze enriched with honey, brown sugar, and spices, but also its effortless preparation. Whether you opt for a bone-in or boneless ham, you’ll enjoy a juicy centerpiece that’s perfect for holiday feasts or cozy family dinners. Plus, this recipe shines in its versatility, allowing you to create leftovers that are just as delightful the next day. Are you ready to add a touch of magic to your next meal?
Why is Honey Baked Ham a Must-Try?
Irresistible aroma fills your home, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that instantly elevates any gathering. Effortless preparation means even novice cooks can create a mouthwatering centerpiece without stress. Sweet and savory glaze of honey, brown sugar, and spices forms a beautiful caramelized crust that your guests will rave about. Versatile options allow you to choose between bone-in or boneless, ensuring tender results every time. Perfect leftovers make for delightful meals for days, transforming your honey-baked creation into sandwiches or breakfast scrambles. Elevate your holiday meals with this recipe, and consider pairing it with some comforting sides like Baked Mac Cheese for a true feast!
Honey Baked Ham Ingredients
• Here’s what you need!
For the Ham
• Ham – Typically 5-8 lbs of pre-cooked ham, perfect for that sweet and savory Honey Baked Ham experience.
For the Glaze
• Butter – 1/2 cup, melted – Adds richness and helps the glaze adhere beautifully.
• Honey – 3/4 cup – Provides sweetness and the sticky texture essential for our glaze.
• Brown Sugar – 1/4 cup – Enhances the sweet flavor and aids in achieving that perfect caramelization.
• Ground Cloves – 1/4 tsp – Contributes warm, spicy notes that elevate the glaze experience.
• Nutmeg – 1/4 tsp – Offers a warm, aromatic flavor that delights the palate.
• Allspice – 1/4 tsp – Imparts a complex blend of flavors that perfectly complements the ham.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Baked Ham
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). This will ensure the oven is hot enough to create a beautifully caramelized crust on your Honey Baked Ham. While the oven heats, gather your roasting pan and make sure it’s large enough to fit your ham comfortably, allowing space for drippings.
Step 2: Prepare the Ham
Place the ham in the roasting pan with the flat side down for stability. If your ham is uncut, use a sharp knife to score the surface in a crosshatch pattern, creating diamond shapes. This scoring helps the glaze penetrate, ensuring a well-flavored Honey Baked Ham that’s both juicy and tender.
Step 3: Make the Glaze
In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, honey, brown sugar, ground cloves, nutmeg, and allspice. Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and well-blended. You should have a rich, glossy glaze that enhances the flavor of your ham, so set it aside for later application.
Step 4: Apply the Glaze
Generously brush the prepared glaze over the entire surface of the ham, making sure it seeps into the scored areas for maximum flavor. Take care to reserve a small amount of the glaze for basting later. This step ensures that your Honey Baked Ham will have a delightful and sticky exterior.
Step 5: Bake the Ham
Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil to retain moisture during cooking, then place it in the preheated oven. Bake the ham for approximately 20 minutes per pound, until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Baste the ham with the reserved glaze every 20 minutes to keep it juicy and infused with flavor.
Step 6: Caramelize the Glaze
Remove the foil from the ham during the last 20 minutes of baking. This will allow the glaze to caramelize beautifully and develop that irresistible golden-brown color. Keep a close eye on it as the sugars can burn if left unattended, ensuring your Honey Baked Ham achieves the perfect finish.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Once baked, carefully remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful. After resting, slice the ham and serve it up, surrounded by your favorite sides for a delightful meal everyone will enjoy.
How to Store and Freeze Honey Baked Ham
- Fridge: Store any leftover Honey Baked Ham in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in foil for up to 3-5 days. This keeps the ham fresh and ready for delicious meals.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the ham. Wrap it well in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight freezer bag. It will maintain quality for 1-2 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw the ham in the fridge overnight, then warm it in the oven at 325°F until heated through. Add a bit of glaze on top to enhance moisture and flavor.
- Cut Pieces: If you have cut pieces of ham, place them in a single layer in the container to avoid sticking together. Enjoy your Honey Baked Ham leftovers in sandwiches or casseroles!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Honey Baked Ham ahead of time can save you precious hours in the kitchen, especially during busy holidays! You can glaze the ham up to 24 hours in advance by following these simple steps: after scoring the ham and applying the glaze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to cook, simply remove the wrap, place the ham in your roasting pan, and bake according to the original instructions. To maintain that juicy, tender quality, remember to cover the ham with foil during cooking, unveiling it only in the last 20 minutes for caramelization. This way, you’ll enjoy a flavorful Honey Baked Ham with minimal effort on the day of your celebration!
What to Serve with Honey Baked Ham
Savoring a Honey Baked Ham is a celebration in itself, and pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal to unforgettable heights.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These fluffy potatoes, enriched with butter and cream, provide a comforting contrast to the sweet glaze of the ham. They soak up the drippings beautifully, making each bite a mouthwatering delight.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: With their crispy edges and earthy flavors, roasted Brussels sprouts offer a wonderful crunch and slight bitterness that balances the sweetness of the ham.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots tossed in a hint of honey mirror the ham’s glaze while adding a pop of vibrant color to your plate. The sweet-savory harmony makes every bite a joy.
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Dinner Rolls: Soft, buttery dinner rolls are perfect for mopping up leftover glaze. Their delicate texture complements the ham beautifully, making them irresistible.
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Creamy Coleslaw: A crisp coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch against the savory ham. The tangy dressing contrasts perfectly with the sweetness, bringing balance to your meal.
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Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad, adorned with seasonal favorites like berries and citrus, adds a refreshing, sweet element that brightens the palate after indulging in the rich ham.
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Sparkling Cider: Complement your meal with a glass of sparkling cider. The fizzy, fruity notes pair delightfully with the honey-baked ham, enhancing the festive spirit.
Let these pairings guide you in creating a feast that’s not only delicious but captures the essence of togetherness around your dining table.
Expert Tips for Honey Baked Ham
• Moisture Retention: Cover the ham with foil for most of the cooking process to keep it juicy; uncover only in the last 20 minutes for caramelization.
• Basting is Key: Baste your Honey Baked Ham every 20 minutes with the reserved glaze to ensure that it’s packed with flavor and moisture.
• Scoring for Success: Make sure to score the ham’s surface well; this allows the glaze to penetrate deeply, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
• Smart Pan Choice: Use a roasting pan that’s larger than the ham. This prevents spills and catches drippings, which you can use for gravies or sauces.
• Watch the Time: Remember, approximately 20 minutes per pound is crucial for an evenly cooked ham. Keep an eye on the internal temperature to reach 140°F for best results.
Honey Baked Ham Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize your Honey Baked Ham for a delightful twist on this classic recipe!
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Bone-in Ham: Opt for bone-in for a richer flavor, as the bone helps keep the meat moist during cooking.
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Boneless Ham: For easy carving and serving, use a boneless ham. It still delivers delicious taste without the hassle of finding the bone.
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Spiral Cut Ham: Choose a spiral cut ham for effortless slicing! Every piece will have that luscious glaze, making serving a breeze.
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Citrus Twist: Add a splash of orange juice or zest to the glaze for refreshing citrus undertones that balance the sweetness perfectly.
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Spiced Up Glaze: Mix in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a touch of sriracha to the glaze for a delightful kick that adds complexity to the flavor.
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Herb Infusion: Scatter fresh rosemary or thyme over the ham before glazing. This will introduce herby notes that provide a beautiful aromatic layer.
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Low-Sugar Option: Substitute honey and brown sugar with a sugar-free syrup or sweetener of choice for a healthier, yet delicious alternative.
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Maple Flavored: Swap honey for maple syrup in your glaze. The maple will lend a distinct flavor profile that’s equally sweet and satisfying, especially with mashed potatoes.
Embrace these variations to make your Honey Baked Ham experience truly unforgettable! And if you’re looking for more cozy recipes to accompany your holiday meal, check out our delicious Baked Potato Soup or the creamy goodness of Salted Honey Pie to round out your feast!
Honey Baked Ham Recipe FAQs
What type of ham is best for making Honey Baked Ham?
I recommend using a pre-cooked ham that’s between 5-8 lbs, as it makes preparation effortless. Bone-in ham tends to retain more moisture and flavor, while boneless ham is easier to carve and serve.
How do I store leftover Honey Baked Ham?
Store your leftover Honey Baked Ham in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3-5 days, allowing you to enjoy those delicious leftovers for meals throughout the week.
Can I freeze Honey Baked Ham?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in an airtight freezer bag. Properly wrapped, your Honey Baked Ham can maintain its quality for 1-2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How do I reheat Honey Baked Ham without drying it out?
To reheat, gently thaw your Honey Baked Ham in the fridge overnight. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C), then cover the ham with foil and warm it for about 10-15 minutes per pound until heated through. Add a little reserved glaze before heating to keep it moist and flavorful.
Can I make Honey Baked Ham ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely prepare it ahead! You can glaze the ham a few hours before baking and let it sit, allowing the flavors to meld. This way, when it’s time for dinner, all you have to do is pop it in the oven.
Are there any dietary considerations for Honey Baked Ham?
If you’re concerned about sugar intake, remember that the glaze contains honey and brown sugar. Adjust the amount of glaze used if you’re watching carbs. Always check packaging for potential allergens, as some pre-cooked hams may contain additives.
Sweet and Savory Honey Baked Ham That Steals the Show
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Gather your roasting pan large enough to fit your ham comfortably.
- Place the ham in the roasting pan with the flat side down. Score the surface in a crosshatch pattern.
- In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, honey, brown sugar, ground cloves, nutmeg, and allspice. Whisk until smooth.
- Brush the prepared glaze over the ham, ensuring it seeps into the scored areas. Reserve some for basting.
- Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake for approximately 20 minutes per pound, basting every 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil during the last 20 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
- Once baked, let the ham rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.
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