Honey Baked Ham Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that offers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and rich flavor, look no further than the classic Honey Baked Ham. This recipe takes a fully cooked bone-in ham and elevates it with a luscious glaze made of honey, brown sugar, and a hint of Dijon mustard. The result is a tender, juicy ham with an irresistible caramelized crust that’s sure to be the centerpiece of any meal. Whether for a festive holiday or a delightful weekend dinner, Honey Baked Ham is comfort food at its finest that brings warmth and smiles to the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Honey Baked Ham recipe relies on a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role. From the sweetness of honey and brown sugar to the tangy kick of Dijon mustard and subtle spice of cloves, every ingredient works together to create that unforgettable glaze that hugs every slice of ham.
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 6–8 lbs): The star of the show, ready to be transformed with a gorgeous glaze.
- 1/2 cup honey: Adds natural sweetness and helps create a shiny, sticky glaze.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Deepens the sweetness and caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: Brings a subtle sharpness that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves (optional): Offers a warm, aromatic hint that’s traditional for ham glazes.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild spice that rounds out the flavor profile.
How to Make Honey Baked Ham
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Position the ham flat side down in a large roasting pan to ensure even cooking. This step sets the foundation for a beautifully cooked ham.
Step 2: Mix the Glaze
In a small bowl, combine honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cloves (if using), and black pepper. Stir until smooth to create the perfect glaze that will coat the ham and infuse it with flavor.
Step 3: Score the Ham
Using a sharp knife, carefully score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern about 1/4-inch deep. This technique not only looks elegant but also allows the glaze to penetrate each crevice, maximizing flavor.
Step 4: Bake and Glaze
Brush half of the glaze onto the ham, covering it generously. Loosely cover with foil and bake for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours. Every 20 to 30 minutes, baste the ham with the remaining glaze to build layers of sweet, sticky goodness. During the last 15 to 20 minutes, remove the foil to let the glaze caramelize beautifully, forming that signature golden crust.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once out of the oven, allow the ham to rest for 10 minutes. This resting period lets the juices redistribute, ensuring every slice is juicy and tender. Then slice it up and prepare to impress your guests!
How to Serve Honey Baked Ham
Garnishes
Brighten your Honey Baked Ham platter with fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme sprigs. Pineapple rings or maraschino cherries add a classic, colorful touch that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the glaze.
Side Dishes
Complement the rich flavor of this ham with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. For a touch of comfort, sweet potato casserole or buttery dinner rolls make perfect companions.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider arranging slices of Honey Baked Ham on a wooden board alongside assorted cheeses, nuts, and fruit for an inviting charcuterie-style display. You can also cube leftover ham for salads, omelets, or hearty soups, showcasing its versatility.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover ham in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it will stay delicious for up to 4 days, ready to be enjoyed in sandwiches or reheated meals.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Honey Baked Ham for longer, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It will maintain quality for up to 2 months. Thaw slowly in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in the oven at 275°F, covered with foil to retain moisture. Warm just until heated through to keep the ham juicy and tender without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use a pre-glazed ham for this Honey Baked Ham recipe?
While pre-glazed hams come with their own flavor, using a plain fully cooked ham allows you to create the signature Honey Baked Ham glaze from scratch, ensuring maximum control over sweetness and spice balance.
Is it necessary to score the ham?
Scoring helps the glaze seep deeper into the meat and creates that beautiful visual pattern, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step. Just keep in mind the glaze may not penetrate as deeply.
Can I add other spices to the glaze?
Absolutely! Some people love adding cinnamon or ginger for a twist. Feel free to experiment with spices that complement the honey and mustard flavors to suit your taste.
How long does the honey glaze keep the ham moist?
The glaze forms a sticky barrier that helps retain moisture during baking, so the ham stays tender throughout the cooking process and after resting.
What is the best way to slice the ham?
Use a sharp carving knife and slice against the grain for the most tender bite. Aim for slices about 1/4-inch thick to enjoy the perfect balance between texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about pulling a warm, glistening Honey Baked Ham from the oven—a dish that’s equal parts impressive and comforting. Once you try this recipe, it will likely become a beloved staple for your gatherings and special meals. So, grab your ingredients, invite good company, and enjoy making memories over this delightful Honey Baked Ham!
