Irresistible Maple-Bourbon Glazed Roast Ham Recipe

The aroma of a Maple-Bourbon Glazed Roast Ham wafting through the house is like a warm hug for your senses. Picture this: the sweet, smoky scent dancing through the air, promising a flavor explosion with each bite. The glossy glaze glimmers under the light, and as you slice into the ham, it reveals tender, juicy meat that practically melts in your mouth.

This delightful dish has been a staple at our family gatherings for years, often stealing the spotlight during holidays and special occasions. It’s hard to forget that one Christmas when Uncle Bob insisted he could make it better—only to have everyone unanimously vote for my version instead. The laughter still rings in my ears as we reminisced about his “experiment.” Trust me, this Maple-Bourbon Glazed Roast Ham will create memories just as delightful.

I remember serving this ham at a Thanksgiving dinner; my cousin Sarah took one bite and declared it the best thing she’d ever tasted.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Bone-In Ham: Choose a bone-in ham for enhanced flavor and moisture during cooking.
• Maple Syrup: Use pure maple syrup for an authentic sweetness that elevates the glaze.
• Bourbon: Opt for a smooth bourbon; its caramel notes complement the dish perfectly.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy kick that balances the sweetness of the maple syrup.
• Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar works best; it adds depth and richness to the glaze.
• Ground Cinnamon: A pinch of cinnamon brings warmth and complexity to the flavor profile.
• Cloves: Ground cloves provide an aromatic spice that enhances the overall taste experience.

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

How to Make Maple-Bourbon Glazed Roast Ham

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Prepare a roasting pan by lining it with aluminum foil for easy cleanup later on.

Prepare the Ham: Place your ham on a cutting board; score the surface in a diamond pattern to help absorb the glaze flavors better. This also makes it look fancy—hello, Pinterest!

Create Your Glaze: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine maple syrup, bourbon, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cloves. Stir until everything melds together into a deliciously sticky concoction.

Apply the Glaze: Pour half of this heavenly glaze over your ham before placing it in the oven. Leave some love for later! Use a brush or spoon to ensure every crevice is coated.

Roast with Love: Place your ham in the preheated oven and roast for about 15 minutes per pound. Baste every 30 minutes with your reserved glaze to keep everything moist and flavorful.

Finish Strong: When your ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C), remove it from the oven. Let it rest for about 20 minutes before slicing; this allows all those juicy flavors to settle down comfortably.

Enjoy your masterpiece with sides like roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes!

Now you’re ready to impress everyone at your next gathering with this show-stopping Maple-Bourbon Glazed Roast Ham!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

The secret to a successful Maple-Bourbon Glazed Roast Ham lies in the cooking sequence. Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). While it’s heating up, prepare your glaze and score the ham in a diamond pattern. This not only enhances flavor but also creates those lovely caramelized edges that make for a perfect bite. Place the ham in a roasting pan and generously brush it with the maple-bourbon glaze. Cook the ham uncovered for about 15 minutes per pound, basting occasionally for maximum flavor infusion.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your Maple-Bourbon Glazed Roast Ham however you see fit! Add a pinch of chili flakes to give it a fiery kick or swap out the bourbon for rum if you’re feeling adventurous. Toss in some crushed garlic cloves or fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme into your glaze for added depth. You could even experiment with different types of mustard to find that perfect balance that speaks to your taste buds.

Storing & Reheating

To keep your remaining Maple-Bourbon Glazed Roast Ham fresh, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator where it will last up to 5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) again and reheat the ham wrapped in foil for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through. This keeps it juicy without drying it out.

Using this recipe always reminds me of last Thanksgiving when my cousin tried to “help” but ended up just eating half of the glaze before I could even apply it!

FAQ

What is the best type of ham to use for this recipe?

When choosing a ham, opt for a bone-in, fully cooked variety—like a spiral-cut ham—for convenience and flavor. Bone-in hams tend to provide better moisture retention during cooking, resulting in tender meat that’s bursting with flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it come back to room temperature before applying it generously on your ham prior to baking.

Is there an alternative to bourbon if I don’t drink alcohol?

Yes! You can substitute bourbon with apple juice or non-alcoholic whiskey alternatives. These will still deliver sweetness and depth while keeping your dish alcohol-free but delicious nonetheless.

How do I know when my ham is done cooking?

For perfectly cooked ham, use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part; you want it to reach an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) if pre-cooked or 145°F (63°C) if raw before glazing.

Conclusion for Maple-Bourbon Glazed Roast Ham

In conclusion, mastering this Maple-Bourbon Glazed Roast Ham recipe will elevate any gathering from mundane to magnificent! With its sweet and savory flavors combined with easy preparation methods, you’ll impress friends and family alike without breaking a sweat in the kitchen. Remember all those customization tips we discussed—this dish is as versatile as your creativity allows! So go ahead, grab that apron, unleash your inner chef, and get ready for compliments galore!