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Looking for a mouthwatering holiday ham recipe that will impress your guests? Look no further than this Honey Baked Ham recipe. With a homemade honey glaze that seeps deep into the diamond-shaped slits, this ham is not only visually appealing but also incredibly flavorful. Whether it’s for Easter, Christmas, or any special occasion, this ham is sure to be a hit at your table.
Why You’ll Love This Honey Baked Ham
– Delicious Glaze: The honey glaze creates a beautiful and flavorful crust on the ham.
– Simple Ingredients: With basic ingredients like Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and honey, this recipe is easy to prepare.
– Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a family dinner, this ham will impress everyone.
– Impressive Presentation: The diamond pattern and caramelization of the glaze make this ham a stunning centerpiece.
Ingredient Notes
– 10-12 lb uncooked shank portion ham: Ensure you have a quality ham for the best flavor.
– 3 Tbsp Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick to the glaze.
– 1 cup brown sugar: Provides sweetness and caramelization.
– 1/2 cup honey: Gives the ham a rich, glossy finish.
– 1 tsp cinnamon: Adds warm, aromatic notes to the glaze.
How to Make Honey Baked Ham
– Step 1: Preheat oven and prepare the ham: Remove excess fat, score the ham, and place it in a roasting pan.
– Step 2: Bake the ham: Cook at 325°F, basting occasionally, until it reaches 160°F internally.
– Step 3: Make the glaze: Combine mustard, brown sugar, honey, and cinnamon.
– Step 4: Glaze the ham: Apply the glaze during the last 45 minutes of cooking.
– Step 5: Rest and slice: Let the ham rest before slicing thin for serving.
Storage Options
To store leftover ham, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 4-5 days. You can also freeze the ham slices for up to 2-3 months. When reheating, place the slices in a foil-covered pan and warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through.
Variations and Substitutions
– Maple Glaze: Replace the honey with maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
– Spiced Glaze: Add cloves, nutmeg, or allspice to the glaze for a festive touch.
– Orange Zest: Incorporate orange zest into the glaze for a citrusy twist.
– Pineapple Juice: Use pineapple juice instead of honey for a tropical flair.
What to Serve With Honey Baked Ham
– Scalloped Potatoes: Creamy and comforting potatoes complement the ham perfectly.
– Green Bean Casserole: A classic side dish with a crispy topping.
– Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes add color and nutrition.
– Homemade Dinner Rolls: Freshly baked rolls are a must for sopping up the delicious glaze.
Frequently Asked Questions
– Can I use a spiral-cut ham?: Yes, a spiral-cut ham will work well with this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
– Do I have to use Dijon mustard?: You can substitute with regular mustard, but Dijon adds a unique flavor.
– Can I double the glaze?: If you prefer a thicker coating, you can double the glaze ingredients.
– How can I prevent the ham from drying out?: Baste the ham regularly while cooking and cover it with foil if it’s browning too quickly.
After making this Honey Baked Ham, you can expect a beautifully caramelized crust with a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The tender and juicy meat infused with the aromatic glaze will leave your guests coming back for more, making it a holiday favorite year after year.
Honey Baked Ham
Equipment
- Roasting pan
Ingredients
- 10-12 lb uncooked shank portion ham
- 3 Tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare the ham: Remove excess fat, score the ham, and place it in a roasting pan.
- Bake the ham: Cook at 325°F, basting occasionally, until it reaches 160°F internally.
- Make the glaze: Combine mustard, brown sugar, honey, and cinnamon.
- Glaze the ham: Apply the glaze during the last 45 minutes of cooking.
- Rest and slice: Let the ham rest before slicing thin for serving.