Every holiday season, my home transforms into a haven of warmth and joy, largely due to one special dish: my holiday ham. This recipe is not just about the food; it’s about the memories, the laughter, and the love that fills the air as the ham slowly cooks in the oven. The aroma wafting through the house is a fragrant reminder of family gatherings, festive celebrations, and the simple joy of sharing a meal together. This holiday ham has become a cherished tradition in my household, and I can’t wait to share it with you.
Holiday Ham That Always Makes My House Smell Like Joy
A flavorful and tender holiday ham glazed with a sweet and tangy mixture of brown sugar, honey, and Dijon mustard, perfect for festive gatherings.
Prep: 20 min | Cook: 2 min | Total: 220 min
Servings: 10-12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup apple cider or orange juice (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Place the ham on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, about 1/4 inch deep.
- In a medium saucepan, combine brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, black pepper, and apple cider or orange juice (if using). Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
- Brush half of the glaze over the scored surface of the ham. Reserve the remaining glaze for later.
- Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake for about 1.5 hours.
- Remove the foil, brush with the remaining glaze, and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the ham is heated through and caramelized.
- Let the ham rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing.
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbs: 25 g
- Protein: 45 g
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Facebook PinterestWhy This Recipe Works
There are several reasons why this holiday ham recipe stands out from the rest:
- Flavorful Glaze: The combination of brown sugar, honey, and Dijon mustard creates a sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully, enhancing the natural flavors of the ham.
- Simple Preparation: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. You can focus on enjoying the holiday rather than stressing in the kitchen.
- Versatile Serving Options: This ham can be served hot or cold, making it a versatile dish for any holiday gathering. Leftovers can be used in sandwiches, salads, or even breakfast dishes.
- Tradition and Memories: This recipe has been passed down through generations in my family, making it a symbol of love and togetherness. Each bite is a reminder of the cherished moments spent with loved ones.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe serves about 10-12 people and requires a prep time of 20 minutes, with a cook time of approximately 2 hours.
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup apple cider or orange juice (optional for added flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This ensures that the ham cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Prepare the Ham: Place the ham on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, about 1/4 inch deep. This allows the glaze to penetrate and flavor the meat.
- Make the Glaze: In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and black pepper. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
- Glaze the Ham: Brush half of the glaze over the scored surface of the ham. Reserve the remaining glaze for later.
- Bake the Ham: Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake for about 1.5 hours. Remove the foil, brush with the remaining glaze, and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the ham is heated through and caramelized.
- Rest and Serve: Once done, let the ham rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful ham.
My Pro Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Ham: Opt for a bone-in ham for better flavor and moisture retention. Spiral-cut hams are also convenient for easy slicing.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze for a unique twist. You can also substitute maple syrup for honey for a different sweetness.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the glaze a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This saves time on the day of your gathering.
- Leftover Ideas: Use leftover ham in breakfast casseroles, sandwiches, or even in a hearty pea soup.
What I Serve With This Recipe
- Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots
- Garlic mashed potatoes for a comforting side
- Homemade cranberry sauce for a tart contrast
- Freshly baked dinner rolls to soak up the delicious glaze
FAQs (From My Kitchen to Yours)
Can I use a different type of ham? Yes! You can use a boneless ham or even a smoked ham, but cooking times may vary.
How do I store leftovers? Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
Can I make this recipe in advance? While the ham is best served fresh, you can prepare the glaze ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.
What if I don’t have Dijon mustard? You can substitute with yellow mustard or even omit it altogether for a sweeter glaze.
Why This Recipe Deserves a Spot on Your Table
This holiday ham recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of family, tradition, and the joy of togetherness. The delightful aroma that fills my home as it cooks is a reminder of all the wonderful moments shared around the table. I encourage you to try this recipe and create your own memories that will last a lifetime.
Your Turn
I invite you to try this holiday ham recipe and experience the joy it brings to your home. Whether it’s for a festive gathering or a cozy family dinner, I’d love to hear your thoughts and any variations you might try. Share your experiences and let’s keep the spirit of holiday cooking alive!
The Holiday Ham That Always Makes My House Smell Like Joy
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 lbs)
- Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots
- Garlic mashed potatoes for a comforting side
- Homemade cranberry sauce for a tart contrast
- Freshly baked dinner rolls to soak up the delicious glaze
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This ensures that the ham cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Prepare the Ham: Place the ham on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, about 1/4 inch deep. This allows the glaze to penetrate and flavor the meat.
- Make the Glaze: In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and black pepper. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
- Glaze the Ham: Brush half of the glaze over the scored surface of the ham. Reserve the remaining glaze for later.
- Bake the Ham: Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake for about 1.5 hours. Remove the foil, brush with the remaining glaze, and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the ham is heated through and caramelized.
- Rest and Serve: Once done, let the ham rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful ham.
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