Jen
Few dishes bring warmth and comfort to a holiday table quite like a honey glazed spiral sliced ham. Its tender, juicy meat combined with a sweet and sticky glaze makes it the perfect centerpiece for special gatherings.
Whether you’re preparing this dish for Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a casual family dinner, this foolproof recipe will ensure your ham turns out flavorful and beautifully caramelized every time.
Why Choose a Spiral Sliced Ham?
Spiral sliced hams are a convenient option for home cooks because they come pre-sliced, making serving effortless. These hams are typically pre-cooked, meaning they only require heating and glazing. The pre-cut slices allow the glaze to seep into the meat, enhancing the overall flavor and tenderness.
The Perfect Honey Glaze
A good ham glaze adds depth to the dish, balancing the savory saltiness of the meat with sweet and slightly tangy notes. This honey glaze combines brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and warm spices to create an irresistible golden crust on the ham.
Ingredients
For the Ham:
- 1 (8-10 pound) fully cooked spiral sliced ham
- 1/2 cup water (to prevent drying out)
For the Honey Glaze:
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for depth of flavor)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ham
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the spiral ham cut-side down in a roasting pan and pour 1/2 cup of water into the bottom to help keep the ham moist as it bakes. Cover loosely with aluminum foil and bake for about 10-12 minutes per pound. Since most spiral hams are already fully cooked, the goal is to gently warm it through without drying it out.
2. Make the Honey Glaze
While the ham is heating, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then stir in the honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and spices. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Glaze the Ham
After the ham has warmed for about an hour, remove it from the oven and increase the temperature to 400°F (204°C). Brush a generous amount of the honey glaze over the ham, making sure to get it between the slices for maximum flavor. Return the ham to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, basting every 5 minutes, until the glaze is caramelized and slightly sticky.
4. Rest and Serve
Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the ham tender and flavorful. Slice and serve warm with your favorite sides.
Serving Suggestions
Honey glazed ham pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some classic and creative ideas:
- Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and buttery, a perfect contrast to the sweet glaze.
- Roasted Vegetables – Carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes complement the ham’s flavors.
- Dinner Rolls – Use soft, warm rolls to make mini ham sandwiches.
- Mac and Cheese – A rich, cheesy side that balances the saltiness of the ham.
- Green Beans Almondine – A fresh, slightly crunchy option for a balanced plate.
Storage and Leftovers
Leftover ham is incredibly versatile and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Use leftovers in omelets, sandwiches, soups, or casseroles.
Tips for the Best Honey Glazed Ham
- Don’t Overcook – Since the ham is pre-cooked, baking it too long can make it dry. Keep it covered and only heat it to about 140°F (60°C).
- Glaze in Layers – Brushing on the glaze in multiple layers helps build flavor and ensures a caramelized finish.
- Use Foil Wisely – Cover the ham while it’s heating to retain moisture, then uncover it for the last 15-20 minutes to let the glaze develop a golden crust.
- Baste Frequently – Basting every 5 minutes during the last part of baking gives the ham its signature sticky, flavorful coating.
Final Thoughts
A honey glazed spiral sliced ham is an easy, impressive dish that brings warmth and flavor to any holiday gathering. With its sweet, sticky glaze and juicy meat, it’s sure to be a crowd favorite. Whether you’re making it for Easter, Christmas, or just a family dinner, this recipe guarantees a perfectly balanced ham with just the right amount of sweetness and spice.
Try this recipe for your next special occasion and enjoy the delicious results! Happy cooking!
