As the crisp autumn air settles in, thoughts of Thanksgiving bring a comforting warmth to my kitchen. There’s something truly magical about gathering family around a table laden with beloved dishes, like a tender Smoked Honey Glazed Ham. This recipe not only steals the show with its sweet, smoky flavor but also highlights the joy of celebrating togetherness. Plus, it’s a real crowd-pleaser that requires minimal prep, allowing you more time to mingle with guests and less time fussing in the kitchen. As the ham glistens next to classic sides and desserts, it promises a memorable feast where seconds (and maybe even thirds) are inevitable. What cherished dish will you bring to the table this Thanksgiving?
Why is Honey Glazed Ham a Must?
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This Smoked Honey Glazed Ham is a guaranteed showstopper, appealing to all ages at your Thanksgiving gathering.
Sweet, Smoky Magic: The unique flavors combine sweet honey with a hint of smokiness, elevating the classic ham experience.
Effortless Preparation: With minimal prep time, you can spend more time enjoying the company of your guests rather than sweating in the kitchen.
Versatile Pairings: It complements all your Thanksgiving favorites, from creamy mashed potatoes to tangy green beans, enhancing the entire meal.
Memorable Tradition: This dish adds a special touch to your Thanksgiving table, creating lasting memories for friends and family. Consider pairing it with sides like Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey for an extra flavor boost!
Smoked Honey Glazed Ham Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need for the ultimate centerpiece!
For the Ham
- Bone-in Ham – This is the star of the show; opt for a high-quality smoked ham for the best flavor.
- Honey – Adds the signature sweetness; local honey brings unique notes to your glaze.
- Dijon Mustard – Offers a subtle tang that balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Brown Sugar – Enhances caramelization and gives a lovely crust; dark brown sugar works wonders.
- Cloves – Whole cloves infuse a warm, aromatic essence; use sparingly to avoid overpowering the sweetness.
For the Glaze
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Acidity cuts through the sweetness, providing a balanced glaze; adjust to taste.
- Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and character; perfect for that festive flavor.
- Black Pepper – A pinch adds a subtle kick and depth to the glaze.
Elevate your Thanksgiving feast with this delightful Smoked Honey Glazed Ham!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Smoked Honey Glazed Ham
Step 1: Prepare the Ham
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). While the oven heats up, take your bone-in smoked ham and place it on a sturdy roasting pan, cut side down. Score the surface in a diamond pattern, making shallow cuts to allow the glaze to penetrate during cooking, enhancing the flavors of your Smoked Honey Glazed Ham.
Step 2: Mix the Glaze
In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of honey, ¼ cup of Dijon mustard, and ½ cup of brown sugar. Stir in 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of black pepper. Mix until the ingredients are well blended, resulting in a smooth glaze that will bring out the best in your Smoked Honey Glazed Ham.
Step 3: Apply the Glaze
Generously brush the glaze over the scored surface of the ham, ensuring it seeps into the cuts for maximum flavor. Reserve some glaze for later to reapply during the cooking process. Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, allowing it to begin warming through and absorbing the wonderful flavor.
Step 4: Baste and Continue Cooking
After the first hour, carefully remove the foil from the ham and baste it with the reserved glaze. Return the ham to the oven uncovered and increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C). Let it roast for an additional 30 to 40 minutes, basting every 15 minutes or so, until the ham is beautifully caramelized and a rich, golden-brown color.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
To ensure your Smoked Honey Glazed Ham is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach at least 140°F (60°C) for serving, but for optimal flavor and texture, aim for 160°F (71°C). If necessary, roast for a few more minutes until it reaches the desired temperature.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once fully cooked, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring your Smoked Honey Glazed Ham is juicy and tender. Slice and serve alongside your favorite Thanksgiving sides, delighting friends and family with its mouthwatering sweetness.
How to Store and Freeze Smoked Honey Glazed Ham
Fridge: Place leftover Smoked Honey Glazed Ham in an airtight container, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days for optimal freshness.
Freezer: Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing; it maintains quality for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy reference.
Reheating: To reheat, place thawed ham slices in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This keeps the ham tender and juicy!
Serving Suggestions: Serve any reheated leftovers with a drizzle of glaze on top to revive that sweet, smoky flavor and make every bite irresistible!
Smoked Honey Glazed Ham Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Smoked Honey Glazed Ham to make it uniquely yours!
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free Dijon mustard to cater to any dietary needs while keeping the incredible flavor.
- Herb Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the glaze for a fragrant twist that beautifully complements the sweetness.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the glaze for an unexpected spicy note that balances sweetness.
- Pineapple Twist: Incorporate crushed pineapple into the glaze for a tropical, tangy enhancement that brightens up the whole dish.
- Maple Version: Replace honey with maple syrup for a distinctly earthy sweetness that will surprise and delight your guests.
For those looking to amp up their Thanksgiving meal, consider serving your ham alongside recipes like Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos for a hearty alternative or Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne to make a multi-course feast.
- Citrus Zest: Stir in the zest of an orange or lemon into the glaze for a fresh, vibrant flavor that cuts through the richness.
- Savory Glaze: Add soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to your glaze for umami depth, creating a unique savory-sweet balance.
What to Serve with Irresistibly Sweet Smoked Honey Glazed Ham
As you prepare for a delightful Thanksgiving feast, let your palate savor the perfect pairings alongside your succulent ham.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery texture beautifully complements the sweet glaze, creating a heavenly balance on your plate.
- Green Bean Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans with toasted almonds add a crisp contrast, enhancing every forkful with freshness.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized bites add a savory crunch, their earthy flavor harmonizing perfectly with the sweetness of the ham.
- Cranberry Sauce: This tangy, fruity relish cuts through richness, adding a bright note that brings the flavors of the feast to life.
- Honey Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness echoes the flavors of the ham while adding a burst of vibrant color to the table.
- Dinner Rolls: Fluffy, warm rolls invite the drenching of honey glaze, perfect for soaking up delicious sauce and ham drippings.
- Spiced Apple Cider: A warm beverage to accompany your meal, its spiced sweetness complements the honey glaze while bringing cozy aromas to the table.
- Pumpkin Pie: Cap off your meal with this classic dessert; its creamy filling and hint of spice create a lovely finish after the festive main course.
Expert Tips for Smoked Honey Glazed Ham
- Perfect Scoring: Cut a diamond pattern into the ham’s surface; this allows the glaze to seep deeply into the meat for enhanced flavor.
- Balancing Sweetness: If you find the glaze too sweet, add a bit more apple cider vinegar. It balances the richness of the glaze beautifully.
- Basting is Key: Remember to baste the ham every 15 minutes during the last cooking stage for a beautifully caramelized crust on your Smoked Honey Glazed Ham.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the ham reaches a safe internal temperature of 160°F. This prevents under-cooking and maintains juiciness.
- Rest Before Slicing: Allow the ham to rest for 15 minutes after cooking. This redistributes the juices, keeping the meat succulent and tender.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing the Smoked Honey Glazed Ham ahead of time is a game-changer for busy Thanksgiving cooks! You can make the glaze up to 3 days in advance by mixing together honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and black pepper. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to ensure the flavors meld beautifully. Additionally, you can score the ham and apply the glaze before refrigerating it, allowing it to marinate overnight for intensified flavor. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake the ham according to the recipe, basting with the reserved glaze, so it comes out just as delicious and creamy. This prep strategy gives you more time to spend with family while ensuring a memorable feast!
Smoked Honey Glazed Ham Recipe FAQs
What kind of ham should I use for the best results?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for a high-quality bone-in smoked ham. The bone enhances the flavor and ensures juicy meat, making your Smoked Honey Glazed Ham a real showstopper at the table.
How should I store leftover ham?
Place leftover Smoked Honey Glazed Ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 5 days. If you have larger portions, consider wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and foil for optimal preservation.
Can I freeze Smoked Honey Glazed Ham?
Yes! You can freeze your ham for up to 3 months. To do this, slice it into individual portions, wrap each tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Label with the date so you can track how long it’s been frozen.
How do I reheat the leftovers without drying them out?
To reheat, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the thawed ham slices in the oven for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Covering them loosely with foil helps retain moisture, ensuring your Smoked Honey Glazed Ham stays tender and juicy!
Can I use other types of sweeteners in the glaze?
Very! While honey brings a unique sweetness, you can experiment with maple syrup or agave nectar for a twist. Just remember, these alternatives may alter the overall flavor slightly, but they can deliver delightful results as well!
Are there any dietary restrictions I should be aware of?
If you’re serving guests who are vegan or vegetarian, this ham may not be suitable. Additionally, those with honey allergies should avoid this dish. Always check with your guests for dietary preferences to ensure everyone can enjoy your feast!
Irresistibly Sweet Smoked Honey Glazed Ham for Your Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the bone-in smoked ham on a sturdy roasting pan, cut side down. Score the surface in a diamond pattern.
- In a medium bowl, mix honey, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar. Stir in apple cider vinegar, ground cinnamon, and black pepper until well blended.
- Brush the glaze over the scored surface of the ham and reserve some for later. Cover loosely with aluminum foil and place in the oven for about 1 hour.
- After the first hour, remove the foil and baste the ham with reserved glaze. Increase oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and roast for an additional 30 to 40 minutes while basting every 15 minutes.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach at least 140°F (60°C), aiming for 160°F (71°C) for optimal flavor.
- Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
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