29 Savory Recipes for Baking a Perfectly Tender Ham

Posted on October 14, 2025 by Maryann Desmond

Oh, the magic of a perfectly baked ham! Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast, planning Sunday supper, or simply craving some comforting, savory goodness, a tender, juicy ham is always a crowd-pleaser. From classic glazes to creative twists, we’ve gathered 29 mouthwatering recipes that promise to make your next ham the star of the table. Let’s dive in and find your new favorite!

Classic Honey-Glazed Baked Ham

Classic Honey-Glazed Baked Ham
Holiday meals deserve this showstopping centerpiece that balances sweet and savory perfectly. Honey-glazed baked ham delivers impressive flavor with surprisingly simple preparation. Your guests will request this recipe year after year.

Ingredients

Ham – 8 lb fully cooked bone-in
Honey – ½ cup
Brown sugar – ¼ cup
Dijon mustard – 2 tbsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Place the ham cut-side down in a roasting pan.
3. Score the ham fat in a diamond pattern using a sharp knife, cutting about ¼ inch deep.
4. Cover the ham tightly with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
6. Meanwhile, whisk together honey, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl.
7. Remove the ham from the oven and carefully remove the foil.
8. Brush half of the honey glaze evenly over the entire ham surface.
9. Return the ham to the oven uncovered.
10. Bake for 30 minutes.
11. Brush the remaining glaze over the ham.
12. Continue baking for another 15-20 minutes until the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.
13. Remove the ham from the oven and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

Every slice reveals juicy, tender meat with a glossy, crackly crust. The sweet-savory glaze caramelizes into a sticky coating that contrasts beautifully with the salty ham. Serve thick slices alongside roasted vegetables or use leftovers for exceptional sandwiches the next day.

Maple-Bourbon Ham with a Sweet Glaze

Maple-Bourbon Ham with a Sweet Glaze
Fancy a holiday centerpiece that actually delivers on flavor? This maple-bourbon ham requires minimal effort for maximum payoff. The sweet, smoky glaze caramelizes into a sticky crust.

Ingredients

Ham – 1 (8-10 lb) fully cooked, bone-in
Maple syrup – ¾ cup
Bourbon – ¼ cup
Brown sugar – ½ cup
Dijon mustard – 2 tbsp

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Score ham fat in a diamond pattern, cutting ¼-inch deep.
3. Place ham cut-side down in a roasting pan.
4. Bake uncovered for 1 hour.
5. Whisk maple syrup, bourbon, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard in a bowl.
6. Brush half the glaze over the ham.
7. Return to oven and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Brush with remaining glaze.
9. Bake until internal temperature reaches 140°F, about 30 more minutes.
10. Let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

You’ll love the contrast between the salty, tender ham and the crackly sweet crust. The bourbon adds a subtle smokiness that doesn’t overpower. Try serving thin slices on biscuits with sharp mustard for next-day sandwiches.

Herb-Crusted Ham with Garlic and Rosemary

Herb-Crusted Ham with Garlic and Rosemary
Let’s get straight to this herb-crusted ham that’s perfect for any gathering. Loaded with garlic and rosemary, it delivers big flavor with minimal effort. You’ll have a showstopping centerpiece ready in no time.

Ingredients

Ham – 8 lb
Olive oil – ¼ cup
Garlic – 6 cloves
Fresh rosemary – 3 tbsp
Breadcrumbs – 1 cup
Dijon mustard – 2 tbsp
Salt – 1 tsp
Black pepper – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Pat the ham completely dry with paper towels.
3. Score the ham surface in a diamond pattern, cutting ¼ inch deep.
4. Mince the garlic cloves finely.
5. Chop the fresh rosemary leaves.
6. Combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, breadcrumbs, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
7. Rub the mixture evenly over the entire surface of the ham, pressing firmly into the scored cuts.
8. Place the ham in a roasting pan, cut side down.
9. Bake at 325°F for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
10. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing. The crust becomes wonderfully crisp and golden while the ham stays incredibly juicy. Serve it sliced thin for sandwiches or thick for a holiday centerpiece—either way, the garlic and rosemary infusion shines through.

Citrus-Infused Baked Ham

Citrus-Infused Baked Ham
Zesty and aromatic, this citrus-infused baked ham transforms your holiday table with minimal effort. The bright citrus notes cut through the rich ham flavor beautifully. You’ll love how simple yet impressive this centerpiece turns out.

Ingredients

Ham – 8 lb
Orange juice – 1 cup
Lemon juice – ¼ cup
Brown sugar – ½ cup
Cloves – 2 tbsp
Dijon mustard – 2 tbsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Score the ham in a diamond pattern across the surface.
3. Insert cloves into the intersections of the scored pattern.
4. Whisk together orange juice, lemon juice, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl.
5. Brush half of the citrus glaze evenly over the entire ham surface.
6. Place the ham in a roasting pan cut-side down.
7. Cover the ham tightly with aluminum foil.
8. Bake at 325°F for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
9. Remove the ham from the oven and carefully remove the foil.
10. Brush the remaining citrus glaze over the ham.
11. Increase oven temperature to 400°F.
12. Return the ham to the oven uncovered.
13. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the glaze is caramelized and bubbly.
14. Remove the ham from the oven and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
15. Slice against the grain for tender pieces. Our scoring tip ensures the glaze penetrates deep into the meat. Letting the ham rest before slicing keeps it juicy and prevents drying out. The final high-heat blast creates that perfect sticky, caramelized crust everyone loves. Orange-glazed ham slices reveal a beautiful caramelized crust that gives way to tender, juicy meat. The citrus notes brighten each bite without overwhelming the savory ham flavor. Serve thin slices over creamy polenta or cube the leftovers for next-day breakfast hash.

Pineapple and Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

Pineapple and Brown Sugar Glazed Ham
You’ll love how this sweet, sticky glaze transforms a simple ham into a showstopper. Your kitchen will smell incredible as the pineapple caramelizes with brown sugar. It’s perfect for holidays or any Sunday dinner.

Ingredients

– Fully cooked bone-in ham – 8 lb
– Brown sugar – 1 cup
– Crushed pineapple – 1 cup
– Dijon mustard – 2 tbsp
– Cloves – 1 tbsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Score the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting ¼ inch deep.
3. Press one clove into the center of each diamond.
4. Place the ham in a roasting pan, cut side down.
5. Combine brown sugar, crushed pineapple, and Dijon mustard in a bowl.
6. Brush half the glaze evenly over the ham.
7. Bake uncovered for 1 hour.
8. Brush the remaining glaze over the ham.
9. Bake for another 30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
10. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

Editor Choice:  19 Delicious Chicken and Potatoes Recipes for a Satisfying Dinner

The glaze forms a crackly, caramelized crust that contrasts beautifully with the juicy ham. Serve thick slices with the pan drippings spooned over mashed potatoes. Leftovers make incredible sandwiches with a swipe of extra mustard.

Mustard-Maple Glazed Ham

Mustard-Maple Glazed Ham
Baking a holiday ham doesn’t need to be complicated. This mustard-maple glaze creates a sweet-savory crust with minimal effort. Your main dish will be ready in under two hours.

Ingredients

Ham – 1 (8-10 lb) fully cooked bone-in ham
Dijon mustard – ½ cup
Maple syrup – ¾ cup
Brown sugar – ¼ cup
Apple cider vinegar – 2 tbsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Place the ham cut-side down in a roasting pan.
3. Score the ham surface in a diamond pattern using a sharp knife, cutting about ¼-inch deep.
4. Whisk together Dijon mustard, maple syrup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar in a medium bowl until smooth.
5. Brush half of the glaze mixture evenly over the entire surface of the ham.
6. Cover the ham tightly with aluminum foil.
7. Bake the ham for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
8. Remove the ham from the oven and carefully remove the foil.
9. Brush the remaining glaze over the ham.
10. Increase the oven temperature to 400°F.
11. Return the ham to the oven and bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, until the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.
12. Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Just carved, the ham boasts a sticky, lacquered crust that gives way to juicy, pink meat. The sweet maple and tangy mustard create a balanced flavor profile that isn’t overly sugary. Serve thin slices alongside roasted root vegetables or use leftovers for next-day sandwiches with sharp cheddar.

Smoked Paprika and Honey Baked Ham

Smoked Paprika and Honey Baked Ham
Perfect for holiday gatherings or Sunday dinners, this smoked paprika and honey baked ham delivers sweet, smoky flavor with minimal effort. Prepare it ahead and reheat gently before serving.

Ingredients

Fully cooked bone-in ham – 8 lbs
Smoked paprika – 2 tbsp
Honey – ½ cup
Dijon mustard – ¼ cup
Brown sugar – ¼ cup
Apple cider vinegar – 2 tbsp

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Score ham surface in 1-inch diamond pattern using sharp knife.
3. Whisk honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and apple cider vinegar in bowl until smooth.
4. Brush half of glaze evenly over ham surface.
5. Place ham cut-side down in roasting pan.
6. Cover pan tightly with foil.
7. Bake at 325°F for 1 hour 30 minutes.
8. Remove foil carefully to avoid steam burns.
9. Brush remaining glaze over ham.
10. Increase oven temperature to 400°F.
11. Return uncovered ham to oven.
12. Bake 15-20 minutes until glaze bubbles and caramelizes.
13. Insert meat thermometer into thickest part avoiding bone.
14. Remove ham when internal temperature reaches 140°F.
15. Rest ham 15 minutes before slicing against the grain. A caramelized crust gives way to juicy, tender meat with balanced sweet and smoky notes. Serve thin slices on biscuits or cube leftovers for hearty breakfast hash.

Apple Cider and Cinnamon Baked Ham

Apple Cider and Cinnamon Baked Ham
Nothing beats the cozy aroma of apple cider and cinnamon filling your kitchen. Now you can capture that comforting flavor in a stunning baked ham. This simple recipe transforms ordinary ham into an impressive centerpiece.

Ingredients

– Ham – 1 (8-10 lb)
– Apple cider – 2 cups
– Brown sugar – ¾ cup
– Cinnamon sticks – 3
– Dijon mustard – ¼ cup
– Ground cinnamon – 1 tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Score the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting ¼-inch deep.
3. Place the ham in a roasting pan, cut side down.
4. Combine apple cider, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and ground cinnamon in a saucepan.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
6. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
7. Add cinnamon sticks to the saucepan.
8. Brush half of the glaze evenly over the ham surface.
9. Pour remaining glaze and cinnamon sticks into the pan bottom.
10. Cover the ham tightly with foil.
11. Bake at 325°F for 1.5 hours.
12. Remove foil and baste ham with pan juices.
13. Increase oven temperature to 375°F.
14. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes until golden brown.
15. Check internal temperature reaches 140°F with a meat thermometer.
16. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
17. Strain pan juices into a saucepan.
18. Simmer juices for 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
19. Serve the reduced juices alongside sliced ham.
Unbelievably tender ham absorbs the sweet-spiced flavors throughout. The crispy glazed exterior gives way to juicy, cider-infused meat inside. Try serving thin slices on toasted bread with sharp cheddar for an incredible sandwich.

Orange Marmalade Glazed Ham

Orange Marmalade Glazed Ham
Just in time for holiday gatherings, this orange marmalade glazed ham delivers sweet-savory perfection. Juicy slices pair beautifully with any side dish.

Ingredients

Ham – 8 lb
Orange marmalade – 1 cup
Brown sugar – ½ cup
Dijon mustard – 2 tbsp
Orange juice – ¼ cup
Ground cloves – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Score ham surface in 1-inch diamond pattern using sharp knife.
3. Place ham cut-side down in roasting pan.
4. Bake ham for 1.5 hours uncovered.
5. Combine orange marmalade, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, orange juice, and ground cloves in saucepan.
6. Simmer glaze over medium heat for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
7. Brush half of glaze evenly over ham surface.
8. Return ham to oven for 30 minutes.
9. Brush remaining glaze over ham.
10. Increase oven temperature to 400°F.
11. Bake ham for 15 minutes until glaze caramelizes and bubbles.
12. Remove ham from oven and rest for 20 minutes before slicing.
13. Slice ham against the grain for tender pieces.
Velvety glaze crackles with each slice, balancing citrus brightness against smoky ham. Leftovers make exceptional sandwiches with sharp cheddar and arugula. The caramelized edges provide textural contrast to the moist interior.

Brown Sugar and Dijon Mustard Baked Ham

Brown Sugar and Dijon Mustard Baked Ham
Every holiday table deserves a showstopping centerpiece that delivers both flavor and simplicity. This brown sugar and Dijon mustard glaze transforms ordinary ham into something extraordinary. Expect a perfect balance of sweet and tangy with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Ham – 1 (8-10 lb) fully cooked, bone-in spiral-cut ham
Brown sugar – 1 cup
Dijon mustard – ½ cup

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Place the ham cut-side down in a roasting pan.
3. Cover the ham tightly with aluminum foil.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes per pound (about 1.5-2 hours for an 8-10 lb ham).
5. While the ham bakes, combine brown sugar and Dijon mustard in a small bowl.
6. Mix until a thick paste forms.
7. Remove the ham from the oven when it reaches 110°F internal temperature.
8. Carefully remove and discard the aluminum foil.
9. Score the ham fat in a diamond pattern using a sharp knife.
10. Brush the entire glaze mixture evenly over the ham surface.
11. Return the ham to the oven uncovered.
12. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.
13. Check that the internal temperature reaches 140°F before removing.
14. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
15. Transfer to a serving platter and pour any pan juices over the slices.

Editor Choice:  34 Delicious Recipes for Using Leftover Roast Pork Creatively

Your ham will boast a crackly, caramelized crust that gives way to juicy, tender meat. The sweet heat from the glaze creates a beautiful contrast against the salty ham. Try serving thin slices on toasted brioche with sharp cheddar for next-day sandwiches.

Sweet Tea Brined Baked Ham

Sweet Tea Brined Baked Ham
Whip up this Southern-inspired ham that’s surprisingly simple to make. Sweet tea brine keeps the meat incredibly moist while baking. You’ll get that classic ham flavor with a subtle sweetness throughout.

Ingredients

Ham – 8 lb
Sweet tea – 4 cups
Brown sugar – 1 cup
Salt – ½ cup
Black peppercorns – 2 tbsp

Instructions

1. Combine sweet tea, brown sugar, salt, and peppercorns in a large pot.
2. Bring mixture to a boil over high heat, stirring until sugar dissolves completely.
3. Remove from heat and cool brine to room temperature, about 45 minutes.
4. Place ham in a large food-safe container or brining bag.
5. Pour cooled brine over ham, ensuring it’s fully submerged.
6. Refrigerate for 24 hours, flipping ham once halfway through for even brining.
7. Preheat oven to 325°F.
8. Remove ham from brine and pat completely dry with paper towels.
9. Discard all brine liquid.
10. Place ham cut-side down in a roasting pan.
11. Bake uncovered for 2 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 140°F.
12. Let ham rest for 20 minutes before slicing against the grain.

Dense, juicy slices carry the tea’s subtle sweetness without being cloying. The brine creates a tender texture that holds up beautifully when sliced thin. Serve it warm on biscuits or chilled in sandwiches for next-day lunches.

Spiced Cranberry Glazed Ham

Spiced Cranberry Glazed Ham
Perfect for holiday gatherings, this glazed ham delivers sweet and spicy flavors with minimal effort. Prepare it ahead for stress-free entertaining.

Ingredients

Ham – 8 lb

Cranberry sauce – 1 cup

Brown sugar – ½ cup

Orange juice – ¼ cup

Dijon mustard – 2 tbsp

Ground cloves – 1 tsp

Cinnamon – ½ tsp

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
  2. Score ham surface in 1-inch diamond pattern using sharp knife.
  3. Place ham cut-side down in roasting pan.
  4. Combine cranberry sauce, brown sugar, orange juice, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and cinnamon in saucepan.
  5. Bring glaze to boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
  6. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
  7. Brush half of glaze evenly over ham surface.
  8. Bake ham uncovered for 1 hour.
  9. Brush remaining glaze over ham.
  10. Continue baking for 30 minutes until internal temperature reaches 140°F.
  11. Let ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

Hearty slices showcase a caramelized crust that cracks with each cut. The tart cranberry balances the salty ham, while warm spices linger in the background. Serve it warm alongside roasted vegetables or chill leftovers for sandwiches the next day.

Bourbon and Molasses Glazed Ham

Bourbon and Molasses Glazed Ham
Whip up this stunning holiday centerpiece that balances sweet molasses with bourbon’s oak notes. This glazed ham requires minimal effort for maximum flavor payoff, making it perfect for festive gatherings. The glossy finish and caramelized edges will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Ingredients

Ham – 8 lb
Bourbon – ½ cup
Molasses – ¾ cup
Brown sugar – 1 cup
Dijon mustard – 2 tbsp
Cloves – 1 tbsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F and position the rack in the lower third of the oven.
2. Score the ham fat in a diamond pattern, making cuts ¼ inch deep and 1 inch apart.
3. Press cloves into the center of each diamond cut for even distribution.
4. Place the ham cut-side down in a roasting pan and cover tightly with foil.
5. Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes at 325°F until the internal temperature reaches 110°F.
6. Meanwhile, combine bourbon, molasses, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard in a saucepan.
7. Simmer the glaze over medium heat for 8 minutes until it thickens slightly.
8. Remove the ham from the oven and increase the temperature to 425°F.
9. Brush half of the glaze evenly over the entire ham surface.
10. Return the ham to the oven uncovered and bake for 15 minutes at 425°F.
11. Brush with the remaining glaze and bake for another 15 minutes until deeply caramelized.
12. Let the ham rest for 20 minutes before slicing against the grain for tender pieces.
The ham develops a crackly, sticky crust that gives way to juicy, perfectly seasoned meat. Bourbon’s warmth cuts through the molasses sweetness, creating a complex flavor profile that pairs beautifully with sharp mustards or sweet potato mash. Leftovers make incredible sandwiches or can be diced for hearty breakfast hash.

Garlic and Thyme Baked Ham

Garlic and Thyme Baked Ham
Every holiday table deserves this showstopping centerpiece. Expect juicy, aromatic ham with minimal effort. Garlic and thyme create a classic flavor combination that never disappoints.

Ingredients

Ham – 8 lb
Garlic – 6 cloves
Fresh thyme – ¼ cup
Brown sugar – 1 cup
Dijon mustard – ½ cup
Apple cider – 2 cups
Whole cloves – 2 tbsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F. 2. Score the ham fat in a diamond pattern, cutting ¼-inch deep. 3. Insert whole cloves into the intersections of the scored fat. 4. Mince garlic cloves finely. 5. Strip thyme leaves from stems. 6. Combine brown sugar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and thyme leaves in a bowl. 7. Rub this mixture evenly over the entire surface of the ham. 8. Place the ham in a roasting pan, fat side up. 9. Pour apple cider into the bottom of the pan. 10. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil. 11. Bake at 325°F for 2 hours. 12. Remove the foil carefully to avoid steam burns. 13. Increase oven temperature to 425°F. 14. Return the ham to the oven, uncovered. 15. Bake for 20 more minutes until the glaze is bubbly and caramelized. 16. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer—it should read 140°F. 17. Remove the ham from the oven. 18. Let it rest for 20 minutes before slicing. 19. Pour pan juices into a saucepan. 20. Simmer the juices for 5 minutes to create a simple sauce. Leftover ham makes incredible sandwiches or breakfast hash. The sweet-savory glaze forms a sticky crust that contrasts with the tender interior. Layer thin slices with sharp cheddar and arugula for an outstanding sandwich.

Editor Choice:  27 Delicious White Miso Recipes to Savor

Ginger-Peach Glazed Ham

Ginger-Peach Glazed Ham
Vividly sweet and savory, this ginger-peach glazed ham transforms holiday meals with minimal effort. The sticky glaze caramelizes into a glossy crust while keeping the meat juicy. Prepare this centerpiece in just a few simple steps.

Ingredients

Ham – 8 lb
Peach preserves – 1 cup
Fresh ginger – 2 tbsp grated
Brown sugar – ½ cup
Dijon mustard – 2 tbsp

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Place ham cut-side down in roasting pan.
3. Score ham surface in 1-inch diamond pattern, cutting ¼-inch deep.
4. Bake ham uncovered for 1 hour 30 minutes.
5. Combine peach preserves, grated ginger, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard in saucepan.
6. Simmer glaze over medium heat for 5 minutes until thickened.
7. Brush half of glaze evenly over ham surface.
8. Return ham to oven for 30 minutes.
9. Brush remaining glaze over ham.
10. Increase oven temperature to 400°F.
11. Bake ham 15 minutes until glaze bubbles and darkens.
12. Remove ham from oven and rest 20 minutes before slicing.
13. Slice ham against the grain for tender pieces.
Dazzling with caramelized edges and moist interior, this ham balances spicy ginger against sweet peach notes. Serve thick slices alongside roasted sweet potatoes or shred leftovers for breakfast hash. The glossy crust provides satisfying texture contrast to the tender meat.

Sticky Asian-Style Baked Ham

Sticky Asian-Style Baked Ham
Oven-baked ham gets a sweet-savory upgrade with minimal effort. Our sticky Asian-style version delivers glossy, caramelized edges and tender meat every time. This hands-off method yields impressive results for any gathering.

Ingredients

Ham – 1 (8 lb) fully cooked spiral-cut ham
Soy sauce – ½ cup
Brown sugar – 1 cup
Rice vinegar – 2 tbsp
Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
Ginger – 2 tbsp, grated
Sesame oil – 1 tbsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Place the ham cut-side down in a roasting pan.
3. Whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil in a medium bowl.
4. Brush half of the glaze evenly over the entire surface of the ham.
5. Cover the ham tightly with foil and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
6. Remove the ham from the oven and carefully peel back the foil.
7. Brush the remaining glaze over the ham, getting between the spiral slices.
8. Increase oven temperature to 400°F.
9. Return the ham to the oven, uncovered, and bake for 20 minutes.
10. Brush the ham with pan juices every 5 minutes during the final bake.
11. Remove from oven when the glaze is bubbling and deeply caramelized.
12. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

Hearty slices boast a sticky, glossy crust that gives way to juicy, flavorful meat. The sweet-savory glaze caramelizes into a crackly shell while keeping the interior remarkably moist. Serve thin slices over steamed rice with the reduced pan drippings drizzled over top.

Lavender and Honey Glazed Ham

Lavender and Honey Glazed Ham
Mixing sweet honey with aromatic lavender creates a surprisingly sophisticated glaze for holiday ham. This simple preparation yields impressive results with minimal effort. Follow these precise steps for a perfectly glazed centerpiece.

Ingredients

Bone-in ham – 8 lbs

Honey – 1 cup

Dried lavender – 2 tbsp

Dijon mustard – ¼ cup

Apple cider vinegar – 2 tbsp

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
  2. Place ham in roasting pan, cut side down.
  3. Score ham surface in 1-inch diamond pattern using sharp knife.
  4. Bake ham uncovered for 1 hour.
  5. Combine honey, lavender, mustard, and vinegar in saucepan while ham bakes.
  6. Heat glaze mixture over medium heat until honey liquefies completely.
  7. Simmer glaze for 3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
  8. Remove ham from oven after 1 hour of baking.
  9. Brush half of warm glaze evenly over ham surface using pastry brush.
  10. Return ham to oven and bake for 30 minutes.
  11. Remove ham and brush with remaining glaze.
  12. Increase oven temperature to 375°F.
  13. Bake ham for final 15 minutes until glaze caramelizes and bubbles.
  14. Insert meat thermometer into thickest part of ham, avoiding bone.
  15. Remove ham when internal temperature reaches 140°F.
  16. Let ham rest for 20 minutes before carving to redistribute juices.

The lavender-infused honey creates a crackly, caramelized crust that contrasts beautifully with the moist, salty ham beneath. Serve thin slices alongside sharp cheddar biscuits or use leftovers in next-day grilled cheese sandwiches for an elevated twist.

Chipotle Pineapple Baked Ham

Chipotle Pineapple Baked Ham
Tired of the same old holiday ham? This chipotle pineapple version brings sweet heat to your table with minimal effort. Perfect for feeding a crowd without spending all day in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Ham – 1 (8-10 lb) fully cooked spiral-cut
Pineapple juice – 1 cup
Brown sugar – ½ cup
Chipotle peppers in adobo – 2 tbsp minced
Dijon mustard – 1 tbsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Place the spiral-cut ham in a roasting pan, cut side down.
3. Whisk together pineapple juice, brown sugar, minced chipotle peppers, and Dijon mustard in a medium bowl until smooth. (Tip: Wear gloves when handling chipotle peppers to avoid skin irritation.)
4. Brush half of the glaze evenly over the entire surface of the ham.
5. Cover the ham tightly with aluminum foil.
6. Bake at 325°F for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
7. Remove the ham from the oven and carefully remove the foil. (Tip: The internal temperature should reach 140°F when checked with a meat thermometer.)
8. Brush the remaining glaze over the ham.
9. Increase the oven temperature to 400°F.
10. Return the ham to the oven, uncovered.
11. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the glaze is caramelized and bubbly. (Tip: Watch closely during this step to prevent burning.)
12. Remove from oven and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

Caramelized edges give way to tender, juicy ham with a perfect sweet-spicy balance. The chipotle adds smoky depth that complements the pineapple’s brightness. Serve sliced over rice with the pan drippings spooned over top, or use leftovers for incredible sandwiches the next day.

Conclusion

Kicking off your holiday meal with one of these 29 savory ham recipes ensures a perfectly tender centerpiece every time. We hope this collection inspires your next gathering! Try your favorites, leave a comment below telling us which recipe you loved, and don’t forget to share this roundup on Pinterest for your fellow home cooks. Happy baking!

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment