Classic Honey Glazed Ham with Brown Sugar and Spices
A traditional bone-in spiral ham coated with a luscious glaze of honey, brown sugar, butter, and warm spices. This centerpiece dish delivers sweet, caramelized flavors perfect for holiday gatherings and special occasions. The glazing technique creates a beautiful golden exterior while keeping the meat tender and juicy. What sets this version apart is the dual glazing process that builds layers of flavor and ensures even caramelization throughout.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Remove ham from refrigerator and let rest for at least 30 minutes
- 2
Preheat oven to 350°F
- 3
Heat butter, honey, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cloves in medium saucepan over medium-low heat
- 4
Reduce heat to low and simmer until glaze thickens
- 5
Remove glaze from heat and let cool slightly
- 6
Place ham cut side down in baking dish or roasting pan
- 7
Brush half of glaze over ham, getting into all crevices
- 8
Cover ham completely with foil
- 9
Bake about 15 minutes per pound until warmed through
- 10
Remove foil and brush additional glaze on top
- 11
Switch oven to broil and caramelize for 3-5 minutes, watching closely
- 12
Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing
Tips
Reserve some glaze for serving alongside the sliced ham for extra flavor
Watch the broiling step carefully as the glaze can burn quickly
Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 140°F
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftover ham wrapped tightly for up to 5 days
Glaze can be prepared up to 2 days ahead and refrigerated
Serve warm with reserved glaze on the side
Common Mistakes
Don't skip the foil covering or ham will dry out
Avoid over-broiling as glaze burns easily
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I use a boneless ham instead?
Yes, boneless ham works perfectly. Follow the same timing of 15 minutes per pound and use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
How long will leftover ham keep?
Properly stored leftover ham will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Slice only what you need to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze the glazed ham?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in refrigerator overnight and reheat gently to prevent drying out.