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Honey glazed ham with golden crust on holiday table

Classic Honey Glazed Ham

A festive centerpiece with a golden crust, sweet-savory flavor, and irresistible aroma. This honey glazed ham is perfect for Christmas, Easter, or family gatherings, offering a tender and juicy dish that feeds a crowd while doubling as a versatile leftover option.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 12 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ham
  • 1 bone-in fully cooked ham (spiral cut preferred) 8–10 lbs
Honey Glaze
  • 1 cup honey main sweetener
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar adds caramel depth
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard or yellow mustard for tang
  • 1/2 cup orange juice or pineapple juice
  • whole cloves optional, for studding ham
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

Equipment

  • Roasting Pan
  • Aluminum foil
  • Meat thermometer
  • Saucepan
  • Basting Brush

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a roasting pan with foil.
  2. Score the ham in a diamond pattern and insert whole cloves into the intersections if using.
  3. In a saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, mustard, orange juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Simmer until slightly thickened.
  4. Brush the ham with a thin layer of glaze, cover loosely with foil, and place in the oven.
  5. Bake for 10–12 minutes per pound, brushing glaze over the ham every 20 minutes during the final hour.
  6. Remove foil for the last 20–30 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize into a glossy finish.
  7. Allow ham to rest 10–15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For a festive look, stud the ham with cloves. Serve with sides like scalloped potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or cornbread. Leftovers can be used in sandwiches, quiche, soups, or fried rice.