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Honey Baked Ham

Honey Baked Ham
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Honey Baked Ham is a classic, easy-to-make dish featuring a juicy, tender bone-in ham glazed with a sweet and savory blend of honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and pineapple juice. Slow-baked to lock in moisture and finished with high heat for a caramelized crust, this versatile ham is perfect for holidays, family dinners, or any special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • Bone-in Ham (around 6 to 8 pounds)
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 cup pineapple juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ham: Remove any packaging and pat the ham dry. Score the surface in a criss-cross pattern about 1/4 inch deep to help the glaze seep into every crevice.
  2. Mix the Glaze: Combine honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and pineapple juice in a bowl. Stir until smooth and well blended for that signature sweet-savory coating.
  3. Apply the Glaze: Brush the glaze generously over the entire ham surface, making sure it penetrates the scored cuts to maximize flavor absorption.
  4. Bake Low and Slow: Place the ham on a roasting rack, and bake in a preheated oven at 275°F (135°C) for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 20 minutes with extra glaze for a sticky, caramelized finish.
  5. Final Caramelization: Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) in the last 15 minutes of cooking to create a golden, crunchy crust — watch closely to avoid burning.
  6. Rest and Slice: Let the ham rest for 10 to 15 minutes after baking so juices redistribute, then slice and serve to enjoy the full depth of flavor and juicy texture.

Notes

  • Use a sharp knife to score the ham for better glaze absorption and caramelization.
  • Slow roasting at low temperature preserves moisture for tender, juicy meat.
  • Don’t skip basting; it creates an irresistibly sticky and flavorful exterior.
  • Rest the ham before slicing to allow juices to redistribute and enhance tenderness.
  • Watch the glaze closely during the final high-heat phase to avoid burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: Honey Baked Ham, holiday ham, baked ham, glazed ham, bone-in ham, sweet and savory ham, holiday main dish, festive ham, honey glaze

Find it online: https://gourmetglazing.com/honey-baked-ham/