If you're looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for your holiday table, this Honey Mustard Brown Sugar Baked Ham is it. The sweet and tangy glaze, combined with the savory flavors of the ham, makes this dish irresistible. It's simple to prepare but looks and tastes like a labor of love.
Ham: Use a fully-cooked bone-in ham for the best flavor and texture. The bone helps retain moisture.
Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps the glaze caramelize.
Honey: Provides a natural sweetness and sticky consistency to the glaze.
Dijon Mustard: Offers a tangy depth that balances the sweetness.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds acidity to cut through the richness.
Ground Cloves: Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic spice.
Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle savory undertone.
Ground Black Pepper: Provides a hint of heat and balances flavors.
This ham pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts. Serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad to balance the richness. For a touch of sweetness, consider a side of baked apples or cranberry sauce.
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F, which is the perfect temperature for gently warming your ham without drying it out. Place your fully-cooked bone-in ham in a roasting pan, flat side down, and use a sharp knife to score the surface in a diamond pattern. This not only makes it look fancy but also allows the glaze to seep in beautifully.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, garlic powder, and ground black pepper until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and fragrant.
Brush half of this delightful glaze over the ham, making sure to get into those score marks you made earlier. Cover the ham with aluminum foil to keep it from drying out and pop it into the oven.
Let it bake for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours — the key is to reach an internal temperature of 140°F. Every 30 minutes, give it some love by basting with the remaining glaze.
For the last 15 minutes, remove the foil to let the glaze caramelize into a lovely crust. Once done, let the ham rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This rest period helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.