As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sweet apricot and brown sugar wafting through the air, I knew I was on the verge of something special. This Easy Glazed Baked Ham with Apricot Honey Brown Sugar Glaze is not just a recipe; it’s the star of the show for any holiday gathering. What I love most about this baked ham is its effortless preparation, making it a perfect choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. It presents beautifully and delivers a juicy, tender slice every time, ensuring your table is filled with smiles instead of drive-thru regrets. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels extravagant yet comforting. So, are you ready to unlock the secret to your next festive feast? Let’s dive in!

Why is this ham recipe a must-try?

Simplicity at its best: With minimal steps, even beginning cooks can impress their guests effortlessly.

Delectable glaze: The sweet apricot and brown sugar mix elevates the flavor, making it irresistible.

Versatile options: Feel free to substitute with different preserves or add spicy notes—perfect for customizing!

Show-stopping presentation: A beautifully glazed ham becomes the centerpiece of any festive table, turning heads and raising spirits.

Whether paired with classic sides like scalloped potatoes or lighter fare such as greens, this recipe, reminiscent of my favorite Garlic Shrimp Spinach, guarantees smiles all around. Get ready to enjoy a meal that will leave fast food far behind!

Baked Ham Ingredients

• Dive into this flavorful journey with just the right ingredients to create your magnificent baked ham masterpiece!

For the Ham

Fully cooked bone-in ham – This will serve as the delicious star of your dish; aim for a 10-15 lb spiral-cut ham for easy slicing.

For the Glaze

Apricot preserves – Adds a sweet and fruity flavor; peach preserves can be a delightful substitute if apricot is unavailable.
Honey – Enhances sweetness and helps create that glossy finish we all love.
Brown sugar (packed) – Aids in caramelization for that perfect, irresistible crust; both light and dark varieties work well.
Dijon mustard – Provides a balance of tanginess that complements the sweetness beautifully.
Unsalted butter – Blends the glaze ingredients while adding richness.

With these ingredients at hand, you’re well on your way to creating a baked ham with the best glaze that will leave everyone talking at the table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Ham with the Best Glaze

Step 1: Prep the Ham
Start by allowing your fully cooked bone-in ham to sit at room temperature for 2 hours to ensure even heating. While it rests, preheat your oven to 325°F. Using a roasting pan lined with foil will make cleanup a breeze. A spiral-cut ham is ideal for easy slicing, so keep that in mind as you prepare it for the oven.

Step 2: Make the Glaze
In a medium saucepan, combine apricot preserves, honey, packed brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and unsalted butter. Heat over medium, whisking constantly until the mixture starts to simmer and becomes a smooth, thick glaze. Remove from heat once it’s bubbling and glossy, allowing those delightful flavors to meld together, creating the perfect coating for your baked ham.

Step 3: First Glaze Application
Carefully place the ham, cut side down, in your prepared roasting pan. With a pastry brush, evenly apply 1/3 of the luscious glaze over the surface of the ham. Cover the pan tightly with foil to lock in moisture and prevent drying. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 10-11 minutes per pound, aiming for an internal temperature of 110°F, which will take around 2 hours for an 11.5 lb ham.

Step 4: Second Glaze Application
Once the ham reaches 110°F, raise the oven temperature to 425°F. Remove the foil and brush another 1/3 of the glaze over the glistening ham surface to enhance that beautiful caramelization. Return the uncovered ham to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, watching for the glaze to start bubbling and turning golden.

Step 5: Final Glaze Application
After the initial 10 minutes at the higher heat, take the ham out and brush the remaining glaze over it. Roast uncovered for another 10 minutes, keeping a close eye on the crust as it forms. The ham should reach an internal temperature of 130-135°F, signaling that it’s juicy and perfectly glazed with the best flavors to impress your guests.

Step 6: Resting
Once the ham is beautifully glazed and cooked, carefully transfer it to a serving dish. Allow the baked ham to rest for 15-20 minutes; this helps retain moisture for those succulent slices. Meanwhile, strain the pan juices to remove excess fat, and then spoon them over your ham slices before serving, making each bite all the more flavorful and inviting.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Glazed Baked Ham with Apricot Honey Brown Sugar Glaze is perfect for meal prep, saving you time and stress on busy holiday occasions! You can prepare the glaze up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can place the ham in your roasting pan, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When it’s time to serve, let the ham come to room temperature while you preheat your oven. Then, simply glaze and bake according to the original instructions, ensuring your ham is just as delicious and ready to dazzle your guests with minimal effort!

Storage Tips for Baked Ham with the Best Glaze

Fridge: Store leftover baked ham in an airtight container for up to 1 week. This will keep it moist and flavorful, ready for future meals.

Freezer: For longer preservation, wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap, followed by foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat slices, place them in a covered dish with a splash of broth or water in a 325°F oven until warmed through. This helps maintain juiciness while enjoying your delicious baked ham.

Room Temperature: Always allow the ham to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation and maintains quality.

What to Serve with Easy Glazed Baked Ham

What complements the sweet and savory notes of this delightful centerpiece?

Creamy Scalloped Potatoes: The rich, cheesy layers of these potatoes create a cozy contrast to the glazed ham, making this pairing heavenly.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness ties beautifully into the dish, adding a pop of color and flavor that brightens your plate.
Green Bean Casserole: A classic favorite, the crunchy topping offers a delightful texture alongside the tender ham, rounding out your meal.
Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their earthy flavor and crispy edges provide a delightful crunch, balancing the sweetness of the glazed ham perfectly.
Warm Dinner Rolls: Soft and fluffy rolls are perfect for soaking up the extra glaze; they add a comforting touch to your holiday table.
Refreshing Spinach Salad: Tossed with a tangy vinaigrette, this salad brings freshness, contrasting the richness of the ham and other sides.
Cranberry Sauce: A tart, fruity touch that brightens every bite, this sauce complements the savory ham and brings a festive zing.
Peach Iced Tea: A refreshing drink option, its fruity notes echo the glaze, further enhancing the sweet and tangy harmony on your table.
Chocolate Brownies: For dessert, fudgy brownies offer a rich end to your meal; their decadence contrasts the savory ham, creating a perfect balance.

Baked Ham Variations & Substitutions

Get ready to explore creative twists on your baked ham that will surprise and delight your taste buds!

Flavor Transformations: Swap apricot preserves for peach or orange marmalade. Each brings its own unique sweetness and citrus notes to the dish, giving a fresh spin to that beloved glaze.
Sweet & Spicy: For a kick, mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes with the glaze. This will provide a warm, tantalizing contrast to the sweet flavors that the family will love.
Maple Magic: Replace honey with pure maple syrup for a subtly different sweetness that pairs beautifully with the ham. It’ll bring a whole new layer of flavor!
Citrusy Zing: Squeeze in the juice of fresh oranges or lemons while preparing the glaze for a zesty brightness that balances the sweetness of the preserves. You might find yourself addicted to this refreshing tang!
Savory Touch: Add a finely chopped onion or garlic to the glaze for an extra savory layer that deepens the flavor. It may surprise you just how enjoyable this twist can be!
Herbal Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary when making the glaze. Their fragrance will lend a wonderful aroma and depth, enhancing the overall dish.
Tangy Twist: Consider adding a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar for a tangy finish. The acidity will help cut through the sweetness and elevate the dish to a new level.
Texture Boost: Add crushed nuts, like pecans or walnuts, on top of the glaze before baking for added crunch. This offers a satisfying textural contrast to the tenderness of the ham.

With all these delightful variations, your baked ham will never be boring! Pair it alongside classic accompaniments such as Savory Ham Cheese or Buttered Noodles Parmesan for a memorable feast worthy of celebration!

Expert Tips for Baked Ham

Perfect Temperature: Ensure your baked ham reaches an internal temperature of 130-135°F for juicy results without drying. A meat thermometer is essential for accuracy.

Avoid Overcooking: Since you’re working with fully cooked ham, be cautious not to overcook it. Keeping close watch will prevent dryness and maintain tenderness.

Room Temperature Rest: Letting the ham sit at room temperature for 2 hours before cooking helps it heat more evenly, resulting in a succulent baked ham with the best glaze.

Foil Covering: Always cover the ham with foil during the first baking stage. This traps moisture, ensuring the ham doesn’t dry out while it bakes.

Glaze Timing: Apply the glaze during the correct stages to achieve a deep, caramelized crust. Timing is crucial for the delicious final touch.

Baked Ham with the Best Glaze Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best ham for baking?
Absolutely! When selecting a ham for this recipe, look for a fully cooked bone-in ham, ideally a spiral-cut option weighing between 10-15 pounds. This size not only feeds a crowd but also allows for easy carving. Make sure the ham is well-marbled, as this ensures a juicy result.

How should I store leftovers from the baked ham?
You can store leftover baked ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, tightly wrap it in plastic wrap and foil, then place it in the freezer where it will last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to keep it moist.

Can I freeze the baked ham?
Certainly! To freeze, slice the ham for easier thawing, then wrap the slices individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This method allows you to take out portions as needed. When ready to consume, thaw in the fridge and then reheat gently in the oven for best results.

What if my ham is dried out after baking?
If your baked ham turns out to be dry, don’t fret! You can add a little moisture back by placing slices in a covered dish with a splash of broth or even the reserved pan juices. Cover tightly and heat in a 325°F oven until warmed through. This should help rejuvenate those tasty slices and prevent further dryness!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes, while this baked ham recipe doesn’t contain major allergens like nuts or gluten, it does contain honey and Dijon mustard, which could affect those with sensitivities. Always check labels to ensure you’re using allergy-friendly ingredients, especially for guests with dietary restrictions. If you have pets, avoid sharing any cooked ham, as it’s not suitable for them due to high sodium and fat content.

How do I know when my ham is done cooking?
To achieve perfectly cooked baked ham, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 130-135°F to ensure a juicy, tender result. Additionally, remember that the temperature will rise a little bit while it rests, so don’t wait until it reaches 140°F before pulling it out of the oven.