Maple-Glazed Ham: A Delicious Centerpiece for Any Occasion

This recipe focuses on creating a succulent and flavorful Maple-Glazed Ham, a dish perfect for holidays, special gatherings, or even a delightful Sunday dinner. We’ll guide you through selecting the right ham, preparing the glaze, and baking it to perfection. This article will provide a comprehensive guide, from ingredients to baking instructions, and helpful tips for achieving a show-stopping ham that everyone will love. We’ll cover everything you need, including a list of ingredients, easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions, and even a recipe card for easy reference. We’ll also discuss nutritional information and answer frequently asked questions to ensure your Maple-Glazed Ham is a resounding success. With this recipe, you’ll learn how to make a tender, juicy ham with a caramelized maple glaze that will impress your guests and leave them wanting more. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe will empower you to create a memorable and delicious meal.

Selecting the Perfect Ham

The foundation of any great Maple-Glazed Ham is, of course, the ham itself. There are several factors to consider when choosing one:

• Type of Ham: Hams are typically categorized as city hams or country hams. City hams are wet-cured and often pre-cooked, making them the most convenient option. Country hams are dry-cured, heavily salted, and require more extensive preparation. For this recipe, a fully cooked, bone-in or boneless city ham is recommended.
• Bone-In vs. Boneless: Bone-in hams tend to be more flavorful and moist, while boneless hams are easier to slice. Ultimately, the choice depends on your preference.
• Size: Estimate about ½ pound of ham per person if using a bone-in ham, or ⅓ pound per person if using a boneless ham.

Gathering Your Ingredients

A simple yet flavorful glaze is key to elevating your ham. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ham: 1 (8-10 pound) fully cooked, bone-in or boneless ham
• Maple Syrup: 1 cup, pure maple syrup (the real stuff makes a difference!)
• Dijon Mustard: ¼ cup, adds a tangy kick
• Brown Sugar: ¼ cup, packed, for added sweetness and caramelization
• Apple Cider Vinegar: 2 tablespoons, for balance and brightness
• Ground Cloves: ¼ teaspoon, adds warmth and depth
• Ground Cinnamon: ¼ teaspoon, complements the maple flavor

Preparing the Maple Glaze

The glaze is incredibly easy to make and brings all the flavors together.

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon.
2. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly until the brown sugar is dissolved.
3. Thicken: Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the glaze has slightly thickened. Be careful not to burn it.
4. Set Aside: Remove the glaze from the heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Baking the Ham to Perfection

Follow these steps for a perfectly cooked and glazed ham:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Prepare the Ham: Remove the ham from its packaging and place it in a large roasting pan. If desired, score the ham in a diamond pattern. This helps the glaze penetrate and creates a visually appealing presentation.
3. First Bake: Cover the ham tightly with foil and bake for 10-12 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
4. Glaze Application: Remove the ham from the oven and carefully remove the foil. Brush about half of the maple glaze evenly over the ham.
5. Second Bake: Return the ham to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 15-20 minutes, basting with the remaining glaze every 5 minutes, until the glaze is deeply caramelized and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Rest: Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham.

Serving and Carving

Carving a ham can seem intimidating, but with a few simple tips, it’s easily manageable:

• Sharp Knife: Use a sharp carving knife for clean, even slices.
• Stabilize: Place the ham on a cutting board and stabilize it with a carving fork.
• Carving Bone-In Ham: Locate the aitch bone (the hip bone) and cut around it. Then, slice down along the bone to release the meat. Turn the ham and slice perpendicular to the bone, creating even slices.
• Carving Boneless Ham: Simply slice across the grain into even slices.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook: Overcooked ham can be dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the proper internal temperature.
• Basting is Key: Basting with the glaze during the final stage of baking ensures a beautifully caramelized crust.
• Resting is Important: Allowing the ham to rest before carving is crucial for retaining moisture.
• Customize Your Glaze: Feel free to add other spices or ingredients to the glaze to customize it to your liking. Ginger, garlic powder, or even a touch of cayenne pepper can add interesting flavors.

Recipe Card: Maple-Glazed Ham

Here’s a quick reference for the recipe:

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes | Category: Main Course | Method: Baking | Cuisine: American

Nutrition Card: Maple-Glazed Ham

Please note that the following are approximate values and can vary based on the specific ingredients used:

Calories: 350 | Sugar: 25g | Fat: 15g | Carbohydrates: 27g | Fiber: 0g | Protein: 25g | Yields: 16 servings

FAQs

How long does a fully cooked ham need to bake?

A fully cooked ham typically needs to bake for 10-12 minutes per pound at 325°F (160°C) until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) before glazing. After glazing, bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

What temperature should a fully cooked ham be heated to?

A fully cooked ham should be heated to an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) before glazing and then to 145°F (63°C) after glazing.

Can I make the maple glaze ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the maple glaze ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before using.

How do I keep the ham from drying out while baking?

To keep the ham from drying out, cover it tightly with foil during the initial baking period. Also, basting the ham with the glaze during the final stage of baking helps to retain moisture.

What can I do with leftover ham?

Leftover ham can be used in a variety of dishes, such as sandwiches, salads, omelets, soups, and casseroles. You can also freeze leftover ham for later use.

I’m so glad you’re here. If you enjoyed this recipe or found it helpful, feel free to share it with your friends and family great food is meant to be shared!

Don’t forget to follow me on Facebook and Pinterest for more delicious recipes, kitchen tips, and daily cooking inspiration, Your support means the world to me, and I look forward to bringing you even more tasty ideas straight from my kitchen.

Print