Ham is a delicious centerpiece for any festive occasion, but it’s especially sought-after during the fall holiday season. So below is my complete recipe for maple glazed ham.
The sweet and sticky glaze made from maple syrup, brown sugar, and mustard adds a delightful flavor that complements the savory ham.
The recipe is simple to follow and results in a beautifully caramelized exterior while keeping the meat juicy and tender. Perfect for holiday gatherings or special family dinners.
Creating the Perfect Maple Glazed Ham
Crafting a maple glazed ham is a delightful way to elevate any festive gathering. This dish not only serves as a main attraction but also brings warmth and joy to the table. The combination of sweet maple syrup and savory ham creates a harmonious flavor profile that is sure to impress your guests.
To achieve that perfect glaze, start with a fully cooked bone-in ham. The scoring of the ham’s surface allows the glaze to seep into the meat, enhancing its flavor and ensuring a beautifully caramelized exterior. The result is a dish that is both visually stunning and deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients That Shine
The ingredients for this recipe are simple yet impactful. Maple syrup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard form the base of the glaze, while spices like cinnamon and cloves add depth. Each component plays a vital role in creating a rich, sticky coating that clings to the ham.
Fresh herbs can be added as a garnish, providing not only a pop of color but also a hint of freshness that balances the sweetness of the glaze. Surrounding the ham with roasted vegetables not only enhances the presentation but also offers a complementary side dish that rounds out the meal.
Preparation Steps
Preparation is straightforward and can be completed in about 15 minutes. Begin by preheating your oven and preparing the ham for baking. Scoring the surface in a diamond pattern is essential for allowing the glaze to penetrate the meat.
Next, the glaze is made by combining the ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat. This step is crucial for dissolving the sugar and creating a smooth mixture that will coat the ham beautifully. Once the glaze is ready, it’s time to brush it generously over the ham.
Baking to Perfection
Baking the ham is where the magic happens. Covering it loosely with aluminum foil helps retain moisture during the initial baking phase. As the ham cooks, basting it with the glaze every 20 minutes ensures that it develops a rich, sticky exterior.
The total cooking time varies depending on the size of the ham, typically ranging from 1.5 to 2 hours. Monitoring the internal temperature is key to achieving the perfect doneness, ensuring the meat remains juicy and tender.
Serving Suggestions
Once the ham is done, allow it to rest before slicing. This step is important as it helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful slice. Serve the ham warm, drizzled with the remaining glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.
Pairing the ham with roasted vegetables not only enhances the meal but also adds a festive flair to your table setting. The combination of colors and textures creates an inviting atmosphere, perfect for holiday celebrations.
Creating a Festive Atmosphere
The presentation of your maple glazed ham can truly elevate the dining experience. Arrange the ham on a beautiful serving platter, garnished with fresh herbs for a pop of color. Surround it with an array of roasted vegetables to create an inviting display.
Setting the table with candles and holiday decorations adds warmth and charm, making your gathering feel special. This attention to detail transforms a simple meal into a memorable occasion, where friends and family can come together to enjoy good food and great company.
Easy Maple Glazed Ham Recipe
This recipe features a fully cooked ham baked with a sweet maple glaze, creating a perfect balance of flavors. The preparation time is about 15 minutes, and the total cooking time is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the size of the ham.
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (5-7 pounds)
- 1 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Prepare the Ham: Place the ham in a roasting pan, cut side down. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, making shallow cuts.
- Make the Glaze: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, cloves, black pepper, and apple cider vinegar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Glaze the Ham: Brush the glaze generously over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored cuts.
- Bake the Ham: Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake for about 1 hour. Remove the foil, baste with the glaze every 20 minutes, and continue baking for an additional 30-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
- Serve: Once done, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with the remaining glaze drizzled over the slices.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 10-12 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
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