Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham: A Thanksgiving Recipe Must!
Get ready for a show-stopping centerpiece this Thanksgiving! If you’re searching for the best spiral ham recipe, look no further! Our Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham is juicy, flavorful, and guaranteed to impress your friends and family. With a shiny glaze that combines sweet brown sugar and rich honey, this easy recipe elevates your holiday feast to the next level.
Why Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham?
Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham has become a classic favorite during the holiday season for good reason. First, it’s super easy to make, as the spiral cut ham means less slicing for you! Ideal for big family gatherings or festive occasions, not only does this glazed ham delight the taste buds, but it also fills your home with a comforting aroma that signals the holidays are here.
A Tip for Your Holiday Feast
Perfectly glazed ham truly sets the tone for a memorable Thanksgiving dinner. Pair it with sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or sweet potato casserole for a memorable feast. Plus, leftovers are delicious in sandwiches, salads, or simply reheated!
Ingredients
To create this delightful Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham, you will need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked spiral ham (about 8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup apple juice (or orange juice)
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves (optional, for added flavor)
For the Garnish
- Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme)
- Pineapple slices (optional but delicious!)
Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the simple steps on how to make a brown sugar honey glazed spiral ham!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This will ensure even cooking and a crispy glaze.
Step 2: Prepare the Ham
Place the spiral ham in a large roasting pan, cut side down. It’s important to keep it moist during cooking!
Step 3: Make the Glaze
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple juice, and ground cloves. Stir until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is smooth. This sweet glaze will penetrate the ham beautifully!
Step 4: Glaze the Ham
Brush the glaze generously over the ham, making sure to get into the cracks of the spiral cuts. Reserve a bit of the glaze for later.
Step 5: Bake the Ham
Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake for 1 hour. After the first hour, remove the foil and brush on the reserved glaze. Continue to bake uncovered for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Basting every 20 minutes will give you that stunning, caramelized finish.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Once done, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. This will help the juices redistribute and keep the ham moist. Garnish with fresh herbs or pineapple slices for an elegant touch.
Tips & Variations
- Leftover Magic: Use leftover ham in soups, salads, or classic ham sandwiches the next day.
- Spice It Up: Add cayenne or chili powder to the glaze for a spicy kick!
- Different Sweeteners: Try maple syrup instead of honey for a unique flavor twist.
By following these tips and variations, you can create a personalized touch that keeps your guests talking well into the new year!
Time to Shine!
This Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham is sure to steal the show at your Thanksgiving table. Trust us, your family will be raving about it.
Try this easy recipe and let us know how it turned out! Share your photos and experiences in the comments below. Happy cooking and an even happier Thanksgiving!