Imagine a succulent, golden-brown ham that glistens with a sweet and tangy glaze, filling your home with an irresistible aroma. The "Apple Butter Honey Glazed Ham" is not just a dish; it's a centerpiece that will elevate any gathering, making it a feast to remember. Perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor, this American classic is sure to impress your family and friends. Ready to discover the secrets behind this mouthwatering recipe? Dive in and learn how to create a ham that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8-10 servings
Ingredients
- 1 (4-6 lb) bone-in ham
- 1/2 cup apple butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove ham from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature.
- Place the ham in a large roasting pan, fat side up. If the ham has a thick fat layer, score the surface in a diamond pattern using a sharp knife, creating 1/4-inch deep cuts.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together apple butter, honey, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Brush approximately half of the apple butter glaze over the entire surface of the ham, ensuring even coverage.
- Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and place in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
- During the last 15-20 minutes of cooking, remove the foil and brush the remaining glaze over the ham. This will help create a beautiful caramelized exterior.
- Remove ham from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Transfer the ham to a serving platter, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and slice against the grain to serve.
Tips
- Bring to Room Temperature: For even cooking, let the ham sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This helps the meat cook more uniformly.
- Score the Fat: If your ham has a thick layer of fat, scoring it in a diamond pattern allows the glaze to penetrate deeper, enhancing the flavor and creating a beautiful presentation.
- Glaze Generously: Don’t be shy with the glaze! Brush on half of it before baking and save the rest for the final 15-20 minutes to achieve that perfect caramelized finish.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your ham is cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C) for optimal flavor and juiciness.
- Let It Rest: After removing the ham from the oven, let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This step is crucial for allowing the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and tender ham.
- Serve with Style: Garnish your ham with fresh herbs or seasonal fruits for a pop of color and added flavor. This not only enhances the presentation but also complements the dish beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 518kcal
Carbohydrates: 0g
Protein: 40g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 160mg
