If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances the tender, juicy flavors of spiral ham with a luscious, sticky finish, then this Spiral Honey Ham with a Sweet Honey Glaze Recipe is your new go-to. Imagine a beautifully roasted spiral-cut ham glazed with a buttery honey sauce that caramelizes just right, creating that irresistible golden crust. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, a family gathering, or simply want to treat yourself to a comforting classic, this recipe offers effortless elegance with every slice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in enhancing the natural flavors and creating the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and buttery goodness.
- 1 spiral-cut ham (8–10 lb): The star of the dish, pre-sliced for easy serving and quicker glaze absorption.
- ½ cup honey: Adds natural sweetness and a glossy finish that keeps the ham moist and flavorful.
- ¼ cup brown sugar: Deepens the sweetness with a rich, molasses undertone that complements the ham’s smokiness.
- 2 tbsp butter, melted: Creates a smooth, velvety texture in the glaze and helps caramelize the surface.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Brings a subtle tang that balances the sweetness and adds complexity.
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional): Adds a gentle warmth, perfect for those who want a hint of spice in their ham.
How to Make Spiral Honey Ham with a Sweet Honey Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Ham
Start by heating your oven to 325°F to ensure even cooking. Place your spiral-cut ham in a baking dish and cover it tightly with foil. This step is crucial because it locks in moisture, allowing the ham to heat through without drying out. Bake covered for one hour. This slow, gentle heat will warm the ham perfectly and prepare it for the luscious glaze.
Step 2: Mix and Apply the Sweet Honey Glaze
While the ham is baking, whisk together the honey, brown sugar, melted butter, Dijon mustard, and cinnamon (if using). This glaze is the heart of the Spiral Honey Ham with a Sweet Honey Glaze Recipe—creamy, sweet, and slightly tangy all at once. After the initial hour of baking, remove the foil gently and brush every inch of the ham with this vibrant glaze. It’s the moment where flavor magic begins to happen.
Step 3: Finish Baking and Basting
Return the unwrapped ham to the oven and bake uncovered for 30 more minutes. Be sure to baste the ham with the remaining glaze a few times in this phase. This ensures a beautifully sticky and caramelized exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. If you want an extra special crust, you can broil it briefly at the end to achieve that gorgeous caramel color.
Step 4: Rest and Carve
Once out of the oven, allow the ham to rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period lets the juices redistribute, making every slice tender and succulent. Then, simply carve along the spiral cuts, and you’ve got ready-to-serve slices that impress both in taste and presentation.
How to Serve Spiral Honey Ham with a Sweet Honey Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes bring brightness and enhance the overall presentation. Consider sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or rosemary sprigs around the ham for a pop of green. Thin slices of orange or pineapple rings also pair beautifully, adding a citrusy contrast that complements the sweetness of the glaze.
Side Dishes
This ham shines alongside classic sides such as creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. For a festive touch, try pairing it with a sweet potato casserole or baked macaroni and cheese, balancing savory, and sweet notes to make your meal complete.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Serve the ham on a large wooden board surrounded by seasonal fruits like pomegranate seeds or grapes. Alternatively, elevate your presentation by arranging the slices stacked in a pretty fan shape on a platter, with a small bowl of extra glaze for dipping. The possibilities are endless for making this dish the centerpiece of any meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your meal, store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to four days. The glaze may intensify in the fridge, which means more deliciousness with every bite.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, you can freeze cooked ham slices. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or use a vacuum-sealed bag for the best results. Frozen ham maintains quality for up to two months, making it perfect for quick meals or snacks down the line.
Reheating
Reheat ham gently to preserve moisture and flavor. Cover the slices with foil and warm them in a low oven at 275°F until heated through. You can brush a little additional honey glaze on top before reheating to keep that sticky sweetness alive and fresh.
FAQs
Can I use a regular ham instead of spiral-cut?
While you can use a regular ham, spiral-cut ham is preferred because it cooks evenly and the slices absorb the glaze better, making carving easier and more elegant.
Is it necessary to cover the ham while baking?
Covering the ham during the first hour of baking is key for retaining moisture and ensuring the ham doesn’t dry out during the cooking process.
Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! The glaze can be mixed a few hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature before brushing it on the ham to ensure smooth application.
What’s the best way to achieve extra caramelization?
For an extra caramelized crust, switch your oven to the broil setting for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! This Spiral Honey Ham with a Sweet Honey Glaze Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a terrific option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
There is something so heartwarming and satisfying about a beautifully glazed, juicy spiral ham. The Spiral Honey Ham with a Sweet Honey Glaze Recipe is proof that with simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a show-stopping main course everyone will adore. Give it a try—you’ll soon find this dish becoming a cherished favorite at your gatherings and holidays.
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Spiral Honey Ham with a Sweet Honey Glaze Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hr 40 mins
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Perfectly sweet and sticky spiral ham brushed with a buttery honey glaze, resulting in a deliciously tender and easy-to-carve main dish perfect for holidays and special occasions.
Ingredients
Ham
- 1 spiral-cut ham (8–10 lb)
Honey Glaze
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F to prepare for baking the ham evenly and thoroughly.
- Bake Covered: Place the spiral-cut ham in a baking dish and cover it tightly with foil. Bake it for 1 hour to warm it through and start the cooking process gently.
- Prepare Glaze: While the ham is baking, mix honey, brown sugar, melted butter, Dijon mustard, and cinnamon (if using) in a bowl to create a sweet and flavorful glaze.
- Glaze Ham: After 1 hour, remove the foil and brush the honey glaze all over the surface of the ham to coat it evenly.
- Finish Baking: Bake the ham uncovered for 30 more minutes, occasionally basting it with the glaze to create a sticky, caramelized crust.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices and makes carving easier.
Notes
- Broil the top for 2-3 minutes after glazing for extra caramelization if desired, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Using a smoked spiral ham adds deeper, smoky flavor to the dish without extra effort.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 1 hr 30 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
