This Maple-Glazed Ham is a festive and flavorful centerpiece that brings sweet and savory together in perfect harmony. Coated in a rich glaze made from maple syrup, brown sugar, and warm spices, this ham offers a tender, caramelized crust with every slice. Ideal for holiday gatherings or any special occasion, this recipe combines simplicity with a touch of elegance.
Ingredients
- 1 (8-10 pound) bone-in ham
- ¾ cup pure maple syrup
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- ¼ cup Dijon or whole-grain mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup fresh orange juice or apple cider
Instructions
- Prepare the Ham: Take the ham out of the refrigerator about an hour before cooking to allow it to reach room temperature. If the skin is still on, remove it. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Score the Ham: Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about ¼ inch deep. Place the ham on a large piece of heavy-duty foil in a roasting pan.
- Make the Glaze: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the maple syrup, brown sugar, mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and black pepper. Stir continuously for about 3-4 minutes until the sugar is dissolved and the glaze slightly thickens. Stir in the butter for a glossy finish.
- Begin Roasting: Brush some of the glaze generously over the ham, cover loosely with the foil, and roast in the preheated oven for 1½ to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature of the ham reaches 140°F (60°C). Brush with more glaze every 30 minutes.
- Increase Oven Temperature: After 1½ to 2 hours, remove the ham from the oven and increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Brush the remaining glaze over the ham and pour the orange juice (or apple cider) on top.
- Finish Roasting: Return the ham to the oven, uncovered, for another 20-30 minutes, brushing with pan juices every 10 minutes to build a rich, caramelized crust.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the ham from the oven and allow it to rest for 15-20 minutes. Slice and serve with extra pan juices, along with roasted potatoes and vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Maple-Glazed Ham
- Choose the Right Ham: A bone-in ham offers a juicier, more flavorful result.
- Scoring for Flavor: Scoring the ham allows the glaze to penetrate deeper, ensuring more flavor with each bite.
- Room Temperature Ham: Starting with a room-temperature ham ensures more even cooking throughout.
- Baste Often: Brushing with glaze frequently keeps the ham moist and allows it to develop a deep caramelization on the surface.
- Resting Time: Letting the ham rest before slicing allows the juices to settle for an even more tender texture.
This maple-glazed ham is sure to be the star of any holiday table, offering a mix of rich flavors and a beautiful caramelized finish.
Maple-Glazed Ham Recipe
15
servings20
minutes2
hoursIngredients
1 (8-10 pound) bone-in ham
¾ cup pure maple syrup
½ cup light brown sugar
¼ cup Dijon or whole-grain mustard
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground cloves
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
½ cup fresh orange juice or apple cider
Directions
- This Maple-Glazed Ham is a festive and flavorful centerpiece that brings sweet and savory together in perfect harmony. Coated in a rich glaze made from maple syrup, brown sugar, and warm spices, this ham offers a tender, caramelized crust with every slice. Ideal for holiday gatherings or any special occasion, this recipe combines simplicity with a touch of elegance.
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