Imagine a ham so gloriously glazed that it becomes the showstopper of your dinner table - a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and subtly spirited that will have your guests begging for the recipe. This Spiked Honey Baked Ham Glaze isn't just a condiment; it's a culinary adventure that elevates a classic ham from ordinary to extraordinary. With a luxurious combination of honey, bourbon, and warm spices, this glaze promises to turn your ordinary holiday meal into a memorable gourmet experience that will have everyone asking, "What's your secret?"
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 cup
Ingredients
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and ensure they are at room temperature for optimal blending.
- In a medium saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Whisk together until ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent sugar from burning.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the sugars to dissolve completely and the glaze to start thickening.
- Add ground cinnamon and ground cloves, stirring to distribute the spices evenly throughout the glaze.
- Carefully pour in the bourbon, stirring to integrate the alcohol into the glaze.
- Continue cooking and stirring for 8-10 minutes, or until the glaze reaches a syrupy consistency that coats the back of a spoon.
- Remove from heat and let the glaze cool slightly for 2-3 minutes to allow it to further thicken.
- Use immediately as a glaze for ham, brushing generously during the last 20-30 minutes of baking.
- Store any remaining glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for smoother blending and more consistent results.
- Constant Stirring is Key: Prevent sugar from burning by continuously stirring the mixture, especially when it's heating up.
- Watch the Consistency: The glaze should coat the back of a spoon and have a syrupy texture - not too thin, not too thick.
- Bourbon Selection: Use a good quality bourbon that you'd enjoy drinking, as its flavor will come through in the glaze.
- Timing is Crucial: Apply the glaze during the last 20-30 minutes of baking to prevent burning and achieve a perfect caramelization.
- Make Ahead: This glaze can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making meal prep easier.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust cinnamon and clove quantities to suit your taste preferences.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 190kcal
Carbohydrates: 49g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
