Irresistible Honey-Glazed Spiral Ham Recipe for Holidays

The aroma of Honey-Glazed Spiral Ham wafts through the air, wrapping you in a warm embrace of sweetness and savory delight. As the golden glaze caramelizes, it creates an irresistible allure that begs for a slice.

Picture this: it’s a holiday gathering, laughter echoing around the table, and everyone’s eyes light up as they catch sight of this glorious centerpiece. With every bite, tender ham mingles with a sticky sweetness that dances on your palate.

I still chuckle when I remember my first attempt at making this ham. My family devoured it faster than I could say “Honey-Glazed.” Their smiles were priceless!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Spiral-Sliced Ham: Choose a fully cooked spiral ham for easy serving and rich flavor; look for one with good marbling.
• Honey: Opt for pure honey for the best sweetness; it adds that delightful glaze we all love.
• Brown Sugar: Use dark brown sugar to enhance the caramelization and depth of flavor in the glaze.
• Dijon Mustard: This tangy addition cuts through the sweetness; choose a smooth variety for easy mixing.
• Ground Cinnamon: A pinch adds warmth; cinnamon pairs beautifully with ham’s savory profile.
• Cloves (Optional): Whole cloves are great for adding aromatic flair but can be omitted if you’re not a fan.

For the Sauce:

• Apple Juice or Pineapple Juice: Use either juice to add moisture and extra flavor during baking; both work wonderfully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Honey-Glazed Spiral Ham

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This ensures even cooking from start to finish, allowing those flavors to mingle beautifully.

Prepare the Glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cinnamon, and apple juice until smooth. The sweet and tangy aroma will already start to impress you.

Score the Ham: Using a sharp knife, make shallow cuts in a diamond pattern across the surface of your spiral ham. This helps the glaze seep into every juicy layer while creating an eye-catching presentation.

Apply the Glaze: Place the ham in a roasting pan and brush half of your glaze generously over it. Don’t be shy—make sure every nook gets that sweet love!

Bake Away!: Cover your ham loosely with foil and bake for about 1 hour. This allows it to warm up while keeping it moist before you finish it off.

Add More Glaze and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and brush on more glaze. Bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes or until caramelized and heated through. Enjoy watching it turn into a glossy masterpiece!

Now that you’ve become an expert at making Honey-Glazed Spiral Ham, get ready for everyone to ask for seconds—maybe even thirds! It’s hard not to love this delightful dish that brings people together around the dinner table.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

The key to a perfectly cooked Honey-Glazed Spiral Ham is starting with a preheated oven at 325°F. First, unwrap the ham and place it cut-side down in a roasting pan. While it bakes, make your honey glaze to enhance flavor and texture. With this sequence, the ham absorbs all the deliciousness while achieving that golden caramelized outer layer.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your Honey-Glazed Spiral Ham by experimenting with various glazes. Try adding orange juice for brightness or a splash of bourbon for depth. You can also sprinkle some crushed pineapple on top for a tropical twist or incorporate mustard for a savory kick. Let your creativity shine as you make this dish uniquely yours!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Honey-Glazed Spiral Ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, wrap slices in foil and warm them in a preheated oven at 325°F until heated through. Avoid microwaving, which can dry out the ham and ruin that succulent texture you worked so hard to create.

The first time I made this Honey-Glazed Spiral Ham for Thanksgiving, my family couldn’t stop raving about it! Their laughter filled the room when they discovered I had saved them seconds… just so I could enjoy more myself!

FAQ

What is the best way to glaze a spiral ham?

For an ideal glaze, combine honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar in a saucepan over medium heat until bubbly. Brush generously over the ham during the last 30 minutes of baking for that perfect caramelized finish.

How long do I need to cook Honey-Glazed Spiral Ham?

Cook your Honey-Glazed Spiral Ham at 325°F for about 10-15 minutes per pound. For example, if your ham weighs 8 pounds, plan on approximately two hours of baking time to ensure it’s heated through and flavorful.

Can I use fresh herbs in my glaze?

Absolutely! Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can add delightful aromas and taste dimensions to your glaze. Add them while simmering your honey mixture; just remember not to overpower the sweetness.

What sides pair well with Honey-Glazed Spiral Ham?

Consider serving classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes or roasted Brussels sprouts tossed in balsamic glaze alongside your Honey-Glazed Spiral Ham. A fresh green salad adds brightness while sweet potato casserole brings warmth.

Conclusion for Honey-Glazed Spiral Ham

Creating a stunning Honey-Glazed Spiral Ham is easier than you think! By following precise cooking techniques, personalizing flavors with unique ingredients, and mastering storage practices, you’ll impress everyone around your table. Enjoy making this dish part of your culinary repertoire—it’s sure to bring joy year after year!