There’s nothing quite like the sweet and savory aroma of a honey baked ham filling your kitchen. I’ve always loved this classic dish, especially during the holidays when gathering around the table feels extra special. But dining out can be pricey, and sometimes you just crave that homemade touch.
That’s why I developed my Honey Baked Ham copycat recipe. It captures all the rich flavors and tender texture you expect, without the hefty price tag. Whether you’re planning a festive feast or a simple family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, it’s easier than you might think to create this mouthwatering centerpiece in your own oven.
Give it a try and enjoy the satisfaction of serving a delicious ham that’s made with love and a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients
- Bone-in Ham: 8-pound fully cooked bone-in ham
- Honey: 1 cup
- Brown Sugar: ½ cup, packed
- Dijon Mustard: ¼ cup
- Apple Cider Vinegar: 2 tablespoons
- Cloves: 10 whole cloves
- Pineapple Slices: 6 slices for garnish
- Marshmallows: ½ cup mini marshmallows (optional)
Tools and Equipment
To create the perfect Honey Baked Ham, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s a list of essential equipment I use to ensure your ham turns out juicy and flavorful every time:
Essential Tools
Roasting Pan with Rack
- A sturdy roasting pan elevates the ham, allowing heat to circulate evenly. The rack prevents the ham from sitting in its own juices, ensuring a beautiful glaze.
Meat Thermometer
- Accuracy is key. A digital meat thermometer helps you monitor the internal temperature, ensuring the ham is perfectly heated without drying out.
Basting Brush
- Apply the honey glaze smoothly and evenly with a good-quality basting brush. This ensures every bite is coated with that signature sweet flavor.
Aluminum Foil
- Covering the ham with foil during the initial cooking phase retains moisture, keeping the meat tender and succulent.
Sharp Knife
- A sharp carving knife makes slicing the ham effortless, giving you clean and precise cuts for serving.
Cutting Board
- A spacious cutting board provides a stable surface for carving and serving, making the process efficient and mess-free.
Small Saucepan
- Melt and combine your glaze ingredients in a small saucepan. It allows for easy stirring and temperature control to achieve the perfect syrupy consistency.
Measuring Tools
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Measuring Cups | Accurately measure liquids like honey and vinegar |
| Measuring Spoons | Precisely measure spices and small quantities of sugar or mustard |
Having these tools on hand will streamline your cooking process, allowing you to focus on creating a delicious Honey Baked Ham that impresses your family and friends.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create a mouthwatering Honey Baked Ham that’ll impress your family and guests.
Prepare the Ham
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
- Score the Ham
Place the 8-pound fully cooked bone-in ham on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, score the surface in a diamond pattern about 1/8-inch deep. This helps the glaze penetrate and infuse flavor.
- Insert Cloves
Push whole cloves into the intersections of the scored diamonds. This not only enhances the aroma but also adds a subtle spice to the ham.
- Position the Ham
Transfer the ham to a roasting pan fitted with a rack, fat side up. This allows heat to circulate evenly, ensuring a juicy and flavorful result.
Make the Glaze
- Combine Ingredients
In a small saucepan, mix together:
- 1 cup honey
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Heat the Mixture
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the glaze becomes smooth and bubbly, about 5 minutes.
- Cool Slightly
Remove the glaze from heat and let it cool for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.
Bake the Ham
- Apply Initial Glaze
Brush a generous layer of the prepared glaze over the entire surface of the ham, ensuring every scored section is well-coated.
- Cover and Bake
Wrap the ham tightly with aluminum foil to lock in moisture. Place it in the preheated oven.
- Calculate Baking Time
Bake the ham for 15 minutes per pound. For an 8-pound ham, this totals 2 hours. Use the following table for reference:
| Ham Weight | Baking Time |
|---|---|
| 6 lbs | 1 hour 30 mins |
| 8 lbs | 2 hours |
| 10 lbs | 2 hours 30 mins |
- Baste During Baking
Every 30 minutes, remove the ham from the oven and baste it with additional glaze to build up a rich, flavorful coating.
- Finalize the Glaze
In the last 30 minutes of baking, uncover the ham to allow the glaze to caramelize and achieve a beautiful, golden-brown finish.
- Rest Before Serving
Once baked, take the ham out of the oven and let it rest, covered loosely with foil, for 15 minutes. This helps retain juices, making the ham tender and easy to carve.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing your Honey Baked Ham ahead of time can make your holiday meal seamless and stress-free. Here’s how I ensure everything is perfectly timed:
Preparing the Ham
- Season and Glaze Early
- Day Before Cooking
- Score the ham in a diamond pattern and insert whole cloves.
- Prepare the glaze by combining honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar.
- Brush a layer of glaze over the ham and cover it tightly with aluminum foil.
- Refrigerate the ham overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
Storing the Ham
| Storage Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Store the prepared ham covered with foil in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. |
| Freezing Option | If preparing more than a day ahead, wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. |
Baking on the Day
- Bring to Room Temperature
- Remove the ham from the refrigerator an hour before baking to allow it to come to room temperature. This ensures even cooking.
- Final Glazing
- Before placing the ham in the oven, apply a fresh layer of glaze.
- Set your oven to 325°F (163°C) and bake as directed, basting every 30 minutes.
Quick Tips
- Clove Placement: Insert cloves evenly during the initial preparation to ensure consistent flavor.
- Glaze Consistency: If the glaze thickens overnight, gently reheat it on the stove to achieve a smooth application.
- Resting Time: Allow the baked ham to rest for 15 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
By following these make-ahead steps, you can focus on enjoying your meal and company, knowing your Honey Baked Ham is perfectly prepared.
Serving Suggestions
When my honey baked ham is ready to serve, I love creating a memorable dining experience with thoughtful accompaniments and beautiful presentation. Here are some of my favorite ways to elevate your meal:
Perfect Side Dishes
Pairing the ham with complementary sides enhances its rich, sweet flavors. Consider these options:
- Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes roasted with olive oil and a sprinkle of thyme.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they provide a comforting contrast to the savory ham.
- Green Bean Casserole: A classic favorite that adds a crunchy and creamy element to the plate.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness balances the sweetness of the ham beautifully.
Fresh and Festive Garnishes
Presentation is key to making your ham look as delicious as it tastes. Try these garnishes to add a touch of elegance:
- Pineapple Slices: Nestled around the ham, they add a tropical flair and extra sweetness.
- Fresh Herbs: Sprigs of rosemary or thyme can infuse a lovely aroma and a pop of color.
- Whole Cloves: For an extra touch of tradition, arrange whole cloves on top of the ham.
Beverage Pairings
Choosing the right beverages can enhance the flavors of your meal. Here are some pairings I recommend:
| Beverage | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Pinot Noir | Its light acidity complements the sweet ham glaze. |
| Apple Cider | Adds a crisp, refreshing contrast to the flavors. |
| Sparkling Water | Keeps the palate refreshed between bites. |
| Sweet Tea | Offers a Southern twist that pairs well with ham. |
Carving and Serving Tips
To ensure your ham is the star of the table, follow these carving tips:
- Rest the Ham: Let the ham rest for 15 minutes after baking to retain its juices.
- Use a Sharp Knife: A well-sharpened carving knife makes slicing easier and more precise.
- Slice Against the Grain: This technique ensures tender and evenly cut pieces.
- Arrange Neatly: Fan out the slices on a warm platter for an inviting presentation.
Leftover Ideas
Don’t let those delicious leftovers go to waste! Here are some creative ways to enjoy them:
- Ham Sandwiches: Layer slices with your favorite cheese and fresh veggies.
- Ham and Cheese Quiche: A savory pie that’s perfect for brunch or a light dinner.
- Ham Salad: Combine diced ham with mayo, celery, and spices for a tasty spread.
- Breakfast Scramble: Toss leftover ham into scrambled eggs with some veggies for a hearty start to your day.
Conclusion
Making a honey baked ham at home has become one of my favorite traditions. There’s something special about serving a dish that’s both delicious and made with love.
I love how this copycat recipe brings all the classic flavors to my table without the hefty price tag. Seeing my family enjoy every bite is incredibly rewarding.
Give it a try and create your own memorable meals. Happy cooking!
