I’ve always seen my kitchen as a vibrant playground, a space filled with laughter, love, and the tantalizing aroma of good food. With my two energetic children, Ethan and Lily, and my supportive husband, Tom, it’s no surprise that cooking has become a cherished family affair. I understand the importance of creating memories through shared meals, especially during special occasions like holidays, birthdays, or simply Sunday dinners. My kitchen is often filled with the sounds of playful banter between my kids as they help measure ingredients or sneak bites of dough.
One recipe that has earned its place in my family’s heart is my famous Honey Glazed Ham. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings everyone together. The sweet and tangy glaze pairs beautifully with the savory ham, creating a mouthwatering combination that Ethan and Lily absolutely adore. With every bite, they not only taste the love and effort I put into the dish but also the memories of gatherings around the dinner table, where stories are shared and laughter echoes.
Why Make This Recipe
Choosing to make Honey Glazed Ham is like deciding to wrap your family in a warm, comforting hug. The dish provides a wonderful balance of sweetness from the honey and orange, contrasted with the rich, savory notes of the ham. It’s perfect for almost any occasion, whether it’s a festive holiday meal, a cozy family gathering, or even a simple Sunday feast.
One of the best things about this recipe is its accessibility. Amelia takes pride in using everyday ingredients that anyone can find in their local grocery store. The sense of warmth and togetherness it fosters encourages everyone to pitch in, making the cooking process a family bonding experience. Moreover, honey-glazed ham pairs beautifully with various sides—think roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a refreshing salad—making it a versatile centerpiece for your table.
How to Make Honey Glazed Ham
Creating the perfect Honey Glazed Ham involves just a few simple steps. With Amelia’s easy-to-follow directions, cooking this delightful dish will turn into a fun adventure for your whole family.
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked bone-in spiral ham (8 lbs)
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup orange marmalade
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp Bayou City Lemon Pepper
- 1/2 tsp cloves
- 1 tsp salt
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a shallow roasting pan, layer the orange slices at the bottom and pour in the orange juice.
- Place a roasting rack inside the pan and add the ham on top.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, honey, orange marmalade, and salt. Stir until they are just mixed.
- Bring the mixture to a slight bubble and let it simmer over medium heat for about four minutes.
- Pour half of the glaze over the ham and bake it uncovered for 50 minutes.
- After 50 minutes, pour the remaining glaze over the ham and bake for another 20 minutes. The ham should reach an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
- Once the ham is well-cooked, remove it from the oven, tent it with foil, and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes. This resting time helps the juices redistribute, making the ham even juicier.
- Carve the ham and serve it with the remaining glaze on the side.
How to Serve Honey Glazed Ham
When it comes to serving Honey Glazed Ham, Amelia loves showcasing its beautiful golden color and glossy glaze. She often sets it on a large platter in the center of the table, inviting everyone to help themselves. Pair it with simple sides like roasted sweet potatoes, green beans, or a holiday-inspired cranberry salad to enhance the meal’s flavor profile.
For her family, Amelia enjoys providing various serving options. Sometimes, she’ll whip up homemade biscuits or rolls to make delicious ham sandwiches for lunch the next day. The kids adore when she serves the ham with the glaze poured over everything, allowing the sweet sauce to drizzle down onto their plates, providing a beautiful and appetizing presentation.
How to Store Honey Glazed Ham
If you find yourself with leftovers—which is quite common with such an irresistible dish—storing Honey Glazed Ham properly is essential for enjoying it again later. Here’s how to do it:
- Allow the ham to cool completely after serving.
- Wrap the remaining pieces tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. For an extra layer of freshness, place the wrapped ham in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to a week. Alternatively, if you plan to keep it for longer, you can freeze the ham for up to three months.
- To reheat, slice off portions and warm them in the oven at 325°F until heated through, or use the microwave for quick servings.
Tips to Make Honey Glazed Ham
- Prep Ahead of Time: If you’re preparing for a special occasion, consider making the glaze a day in advance. Just heat it up when you’re ready to use it.
- Check Your Tools: Ensure you have a sharp knife for carving and a meat thermometer to guarantee the ham is cooked perfectly. These small details can make a significant difference in presentation and cooking quality.
- Season Freely: Feel free to adjust the spices in the glaze to your liking. Add more cinnamon for warmth or a touch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat—Amelia sometimes adds a bit of ginger for a fun twist!
Variations
While Amelia’s recipe for Honey Glazed Ham is a surefire hit, variations can add exciting twists. Try using different fruit juices such as pineapple or apple instead of orange for alternative flavors. You can even infuse the glaze with herbs like rosemary or thyme for an elegant touch.
Another variation Amelia enjoys is adding crushed pineapple or maraschino cherries over the glaze before baking, adding bursts of sweetness and color. These playful changes elevate the dish and keep dinner fun and fresh!
FAQs
1. Can I use a boneless ham?
Yes, you can! A boneless ham will also work well with this glaze. Adjust the cooking time according to the weight and type of ham.
2. How do I know when my ham is done?
The internal temperature of the ham should read 140°F (60°C). Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the ham for an accurate reading.
3. Can I use different types of honey in this recipe?
Absolutely! Different varieties of honey (like clover, wildflower, or orange blossom) will bring different flavor profiles to your glaze. Experiment to find your favorite!
Amelia’s Honey Glazed Ham is not just a delightful recipe, but a beautiful way to foster connections, celebrate life’s moments, and bring families together. Recreate it for your loved ones, and you might find yourself starting a new tradition, filled with smiles, laughter, and memories to cherish for years to come.
Honey Glazed Ham
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a shallow roasting pan, layer the orange slices at the bottom and pour in the orange juice.
- Place a roasting rack inside the pan and add the ham on top.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, honey, orange marmalade, and salt. Stir until they are just mixed.
- Bring the mixture to a slight bubble and let it simmer over medium heat for about four minutes.
- Pour half of the glaze over the ham and bake it uncovered for 50 minutes.
- After 50 minutes, pour the remaining glaze over the ham and bake for another 20 minutes until the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
- Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the oven, tent it with foil, and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes.
- Carve the ham and serve it with the remaining glaze on the side.