The centerpiece of any Easter feast, a beautifully glazed ham, evokes feelings of warmth, tradition, and shared joy. This recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory, creating a succulent and flavorful ham that will be the star of your holiday table. The aromatic glaze, with its hints of spice and sweetness, will infuse the ham with a rich, irresistible taste, perfect for celebrating this special occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 (8-10 pound) bone-in, fully cooked ham
- Whole cloves (optional)
For the Glaze
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
Directions
Prepare the Ham:
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
Remove the ham from its packaging and place it in a large roasting pan.
If desired, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern and insert whole cloves into the intersections.
Make the Glaze:
In a small saucepan, combine honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and ground cloves.
Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves and the glaze is smooth.
Simmer for a couple of minutes until the glaze thickens slightly.
Bake the Ham:
Pour half of the glaze over the ham, ensuring it coats the entire surface.
Bake for approximately 15-20 minutes per pound, basting with the remaining glaze every 20-30 minutes.
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 140°F (60°C).
Rest and Serve:
Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Carve the ham into slices and serve warm.
Tips:
Serve with classic Easter sides like scalloped potatoes, green bean casserole, and dinner rolls.
For a deeper flavor, you can warm the ham at a lower temperature, such as 275°F (135°C), for a longer period.
Make sure to save the ham bone, it is great for making bean soup.