Description
Sweet, sticky, and beautifully caramelized — this easy apricot glazed ham is a festive centerpiece perfect for holiday gatherings and special dinners.
Ingredients
Ham
- 1 fully cooked ham (8–10 lb)
Glaze
- 1 cup apricot preserves
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- ½ tsp ground cloves (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature when the ham is ready to bake.
- Score the Ham: Lightly score the surface of the fully cooked ham in a diamond pattern about ¼ inch deep. This allows the glaze to penetrate and adds visual interest. Place the ham in a roasting pan.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a bowl, mix together apricot preserves, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and ground cloves until smooth and combined.
- Apply Glaze and Bake: Brush the glaze generously all over the scored ham. Place the ham in the oven and bake for 1½ to 2 hours. Every 30 minutes, baste the ham with more glaze to build up a flavorful, sticky coating.
- Rest Before Slicing: Once baked and caramelized, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the ham moist when sliced.
Notes
- Use orange marmalade instead of apricot preserves for a citrus twist on the glaze.
- For an extra sticky and caramelized glaze, place the ham under the broiler for the final 3 minutes of cooking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 2 hrs
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
