Get ready to impress your family and friends with a show-stopping centerpiece that’s as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate! Our Citrus Spice Glazed Ham is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Imagine a perfectly cooked ham, drizzled with a luscious glaze made from sweet brown sugar, zesty orange juice, and a hint of warm spices. This recipe is your ticket to creating a memorable feast that will have your guests raving long after the last bite. Ready to elevate your holiday table? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that promises to be the star of your next gathering!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 2 hrs 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked ham (6-8 lbs)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions
- Remove the ham from refrigerator 1 hour before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature, ensuring even cooking.
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Position a rack in the lower third of the oven to accommodate the ham.
- Place the ham fat-side up in a large roasting pan. If the ham has a thick fat layer, score it in a diamond pattern using a sharp knife, creating 1/4-inch deep cuts to help the glaze penetrate.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together brown sugar, orange juice, honey, Dijon mustard, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and ground ginger until smooth and well combined.
- Brush approximately 1/3 of the glaze over the entire surface of the ham, ensuring even coverage.
- Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning and place in the preheated oven.
- Bake for approximately 2 hours, or about 15 minutes per pound, occasionally basting with additional glaze every 30 minutes.
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, remove the foil and brush with the remaining glaze to create a caramelized exterior.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The ham is ready when it reaches 140°F (60°C).
- Remove from oven and let rest for 15-20 minutes before carving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Transfer to a serving platter, garnish with fresh orange slices or herb sprigs if desired, and slice against the grain.
Tips
- Bring to Room Temperature: Make sure to remove the ham from the refrigerator at least 1 hour before cooking. This step allows the ham to come to room temperature, ensuring it cooks evenly throughout.
- Score the Fat: If your ham has a thick layer of fat, scoring it in a diamond pattern not only enhances its appearance but also allows the glaze to penetrate deeper, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
- Baste Regularly: For a beautifully caramelized glaze, baste the ham with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes during baking. This will help create a sticky, sweet crust that is simply irresistible.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The ham is perfectly done when it reaches 140°F (60°C).
- Let It Rest: After removing the ham from the oven, let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
- Garnish for Presentation: For an extra touch of elegance, garnish your ham with fresh orange slices or sprigs of herbs before serving. This not only looks beautiful but also adds a refreshing aroma.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 110mg
