Baked Ham: A Juicy, Glazed Centerpiece for Every Celebration
Introduction
Looking for the perfect main dish to impress guests and satisfy your craving for comfort? This baked ham recipe delivers tender, juicy slices coated in a glossy, sweet-savory glaze. Whether you’re planning a holiday dinner, Easter brunch, or a hearty family meal, this easy baked ham is flavorful, showstopping, and surprisingly simple to prepare. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, it becomes the star of any gathering.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Ham has long been a celebratory staple in many Western cultures, especially during holidays like Christmas and Easter. The tradition dates back centuries, symbolizing prosperity and abundance. In the U.S., glazed spiral hams became popular in the mid-20th century for their convenience and presentation. Today, this dish remains a holiday dinner classic, bridging tradition with modern flavors and techniques.
Ingredients
– 1 fully cooked bone-in spiral-cut ham (8–10 lbs)
– 1 cup brown sugar
– ½ cup honey or maple syrup
– ¼ cup Dijon mustard
– ¼ cup apple cider vinegar or orange juice
– 1 tsp ground cloves (optional)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
– ½ tsp black pepper
Optional Additions
– Pineapple rings or cherries for garnish
– Whole grain mustard for extra tang
– Dash of cayenne pepper for a kick
– Fresh rosemary or thyme for aromatic flavor
Instructions
- Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham cut-side down in a large roasting pan and cover loosely with foil. - Make the Glaze
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, vinegar, cloves, garlic powder, and cinnamon. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until slightly thickened. - Glaze and Bake
Brush a third of the glaze over the ham. Cover and bake for 1½ to 2 hours (about 12–15 minutes per pound), basting with glaze every 30 minutes. - Finish and Caramelize
During the last 20 minutes of baking, uncover the ham and brush with the remaining glaze to let it caramelize beautifully. - Rest and Serve
Remove from oven, cover loosely with foil, and let rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 12 servings)
Calories: ~290
Protein: ~24g
Fat: ~12g
Saturated Fat: ~4g
Carbohydrates: ~18g
Sugar: ~15g
Sodium: ~960mg
Cholesterol: ~60mg
Gluten-Free: Yes (verify glaze ingredients)
Health Benefits & Considerations
– Ham is a rich source of protein, iron, and B vitamins.
– Opt for reduced-sodium or natural hams to limit salt intake.
– Baking at a moderate temperature helps preserve moisture without burning sugars.
– Pair with fiber-rich vegetables to balance the meal.
– Using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup can reduce refined sugar content.
Tips for Success
– Avoid overbaking; use a meat thermometer (internal temp should reach 140°F).
– For crispier edges, broil the ham for the final 3–5 minutes.
– Leftovers are perfect for sandwiches, soups, or breakfast scrambles.
– If using a whole, unsliced ham, score the surface in a diamond pattern for better glaze absorption.
Conclusion
A well-baked ham is more than just a meal—it’s a warm, satisfying tradition that brings people together. With its rich flavor, glossy glaze, and melt-in-your-mouth texture, this glazed baked ham recipe is ideal for holidays, Sunday dinners, or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Recommendation
Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, or a fresh green salad for a complete, comforting dinner. Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 5 days or can be frozen for later use.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
You don’t need to sacrifice comfort for health. This baked ham recipe delivers on both—indulgent taste with simple, clean ingredients. Serve it with intention and balance it with nourishing sides for a meal that’s as wholesome as it is delicious.