Introduction
The Classic Glazed Easter Ham is a staple of many Easter celebrations, and for good reason – it’s a show-stopping centerpiece that’s both delicious and impressive. As we approach Easter, many of us are looking for the perfect Easter glazed ham recipe to serve our loved ones. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, with its sweet and savory glaze made from brown sugar, honey, and Dijon mustard.
The aroma of a Classic Glazed Easter Ham wafting from the oven is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave your guests eagerly awaiting the first slice. With its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, this ham is sure to be a hit at any Easter gathering.
So, what makes this Classic Glazed Easter Ham recipe so special? For starters, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Classic Glazed Easter Ham recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to impress their guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The glaze is the star of the show, with its rich, caramelized flavor that’s both sweet and savory.
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility – you can adjust the amount of spices and sweetener to suit your taste preferences. Plus, the ham itself is a great canvas for experimentation, so feel free to get creative with different glaze combinations and toppings.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this Classic Glazed Easter Ham recipe is sure to become a new favorite. So, let’s dive in and explore the ingredients and instructions you’ll need to make this delicious dish.
Ingredients
- 1 (4-6 pound) ham
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp ground cloves
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup cherry juice
- 1/4 cup cola
- 1 cup pineapple rings
- 1 cup cherry slices
- 10-12 whole cloves
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
When it comes to the ingredients, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure to choose a high-quality ham that’s fresh and has a good balance of fat and lean meat. You can also use a boneless ham if you prefer, but keep in mind that it may not be as flavorful as a bone-in ham.
The glaze ingredients are also important, as they provide the majority of the flavor in this dish. Brown sugar and honey add a rich, caramelized flavor, while Dijon mustard adds a tangy, savory note. You can adjust the amount of spices to suit your taste preferences, and feel free to add other ingredients like garlic or onion to the glaze for extra flavor.
Some other ingredients you can use as substitutes or additions include:
- Maple syrup instead of honey for a slightly different flavor
- Apple cider vinegar instead of pineapple juice for a tangier glaze
- Chopped nuts or seeds for added texture and flavor
Equipment Needed
To make this Classic Glazed Easter Ham, you’ll need a few basic pieces of equipment, including:
- A large baking dish or roasting pan
- A meat thermometer to ensure the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature
- A sharp knife for scoring the ham
- A spatula or brush for applying the glaze
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Score the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
- Mix brown sugar, mustard, and spices to create a glaze.
- Apply the glaze evenly over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
- Place the ham in a baking dish and bake for 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
- Baste the ham with the pan juices every 20 minutes to keep it moist and promote even browning.
- Continue baking until the ham is caramelized and golden brown, about 1-2 hours total.
- Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Visual Guide & Tips
As you’re cooking the ham, you’ll want to keep an eye on it to ensure it’s browning evenly and staying moist. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Make sure to score the ham deeply enough to allow the glaze to penetrate the meat.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) for fully cooked hams according to USDA guidelines.
- Baste the ham regularly to keep it moist and promote even browning.
Pro Tips & Tricks
To achieve a perfect glaze on your Classic Glazed Easter Ham, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, make sure to score the ham deeply enough to allow the glaze to penetrate the meat. This will help the glaze stick to the ham and create a beautiful, caramelized crust.
Another tip is to use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature. This will help prevent the ham from becoming overcooked or dry, and will ensure that it’s juicy and flavorful.
Finally, be sure to baste the ham regularly as it’s cooking to keep it moist and promote even browning. This will help create a beautiful, golden-brown crust on the ham that’s sure to impress your guests.
Serving Suggestions/Storage/Variations
Once your Classic Glazed Easter Ham is cooked, you can serve it sliced and accompanied by your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted vegetables. You can also use the ham in a variety of dishes, such as sandwiches, salads, or soups.
To store leftovers, simply wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the ham for up to 2 months, and then thaw it in the refrigerator or at room temperature when you’re ready to serve it.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
Per serving (assuming 8-10 servings):
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Protein: 20g
- Carbs: 35g
- Fat: 15g
- Sugar: 25g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions about Classic Glazed Easter Ham:
- Q: How long does it take to cook a Classic Glazed Easter Ham?
- A: The cooking time will depend on the size of the ham, but generally, it takes about 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
- Q: Can I use a boneless ham instead of a bone-in ham?
- A: Yes, you can use a boneless ham, but keep in mind that it may not be as flavorful as a bone-in ham.
- Q: How do I store leftovers?
- A: Simply wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Q: Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
- A: Yes, you can make the glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Q: What type of ham is best for this recipe?
- A: A smoked or cured ham is best for this recipe, as it will have a more complex flavor profile than a fresh ham.
Conclusion
And there you have it – a delicious Classic Glazed Easter Ham recipe that’s sure to impress your guests and become a new family tradition. With its sweet and savory flavors, beautiful glaze, and easy preparation, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to make a statement at their next Easter gathering.
So, did you make this Classic Glazed Easter Ham? Pin it on Pinterest or tag me on Instagram @EvasRecipes! I’d love to see your creations and hear about your experiences with this recipe.
Easter recipe: Classic Glazed Ham
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Score the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
- Mix brown sugar, mustard, and spices to create a glaze.
- Apply the glaze evenly over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
- Place the ham in a baking dish and bake for 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
- Baste the ham with the pan juices every 20 minutes to keep it moist and promote even browning.
- Continue baking until the ham is caramelized and golden brown, about 1-2 hours total.
- Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.