Sweet Citrus Glazed Ham

This succulent honey glazed ham transforms any gathering into a special occasion. The sweet and tangy glaze caramelizes beautifully while baking, creating an irresistible aroma that fills your home and promises an unforgettable meal.

I first made this glazed ham for Easter dinner when my in-laws visited unexpectedly. The compliments flowed freely, and now it's requested at nearly every family gathering, especially during the holidays.

Ingredients

• Fully cooked bone in spiral ham 8lbs: ensures even cooking and easy serving while the bone adds tremendous flavor
• Orange slices and juice: create a fragrant steam bath for the ham keeping it moist
• Dark brown sugar: provides deep molasses notes that complement the ham perfectly
• Honey: adds natural sweetness and helps create that signature sticky glaze
• Orange marmalade: incorporates bittersweet citrus complexity and aids in thickening
• Dijon mustard: cuts through the sweetness with subtle tang and depth
• Ground cinnamon nutmeg and cloves: bring warm aromatic spices that enhance the holiday feel
• Bayou City Lemon Pepper: adds a zesty peppery note that balances the sweetness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 350°F to ensure optimal cooking environment for your ham. This moderate temperature allows the glaze to caramelize without burning while heating the ham thoroughly.

Create the Flavor Foundation:

Line your roasting pan with orange slices creating an aromatic bed then pour in the orange juice. This citrus layer will release steam during baking infusing the ham with subtle flavor while preventing it from drying out.

Position the Ham:

Place your roasting rack inside the pan then set the spiral ham on top. The elevated position allows heat to circulate evenly around the meat while keeping it from sitting directly in the juice.

Prepare the Glaze:

Combine brown sugar honey orange marmalade and salt in a saucepan over medium heat stirring gently until just incorporated. The ingredients will slowly melt together forming a thick sweet mixture with complex flavor notes.

Simmer the Glaze:

Allow the mixture to reach a gentle bubble then simmer for exactly 4 minutes. This cooking time activates the sugars and reduces the mixture slightly creating the perfect consistency that will adhere to the ham.

First Glazing and Baking:

Pour half the prepared glaze evenly over the ham ensuring it gets between the spiral cuts then bake uncovered for 50 minutes. During this time the glaze will begin to caramelize and the ham will heat through.

Final Glazing:

Apply the remaining glaze generously over the entire surface of the partially baked ham then return to the oven for an additional 20 minutes. This second application creates layers of flavor and ensures a beautifully lacquered finish.

Rest and Serve:

Remove the ham once it reaches 140°F then tent loosely with foil and allow to rest for 15 20 minutes. This critical resting period allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat resulting in optimal tenderness and flavor.

The combination of honey and orange in this glaze reminds me of my grandmother's holiday table. She always added a splash of bourbon to her version which you can certainly do for an adult variation. Watching my children's faces light up when this ham comes to the table brings back those cherished memories of family gatherings centered around good food.

Make-Ahead Options

The glaze can be prepared up to three days before and stored in the refrigerator. Gently warm it before applying to the ham for easier spreading. I often make the glaze the night before which saves precious time when entertaining. The entire ham can be prepared through the first glazing stage earlier in the day then finished with the final glazing just before guests arrive ensuring fresh from the oven warmth and aroma.

Serving Suggestions

This honey glazed ham pairs beautifully with scalloped potatoes or creamy mashed potatoes which soak up the sweet juices deliciously. For vegetables consider roasted brussels sprouts with a light balsamic glaze or a simple green salad with a tart vinaigrette to cut through the richness. I always set out small bowls of additional warmed glaze on the table allowing guests to add extra sweetness to their slices if desired. For a complete feast include soft dinner rolls that can be used for impromptu mini sandwiches with leftover ham.

Leftover Transformation

Transform leftover ham into monte cristo sandwiches by layering between bread with swiss cheese then dipping in egg batter and frying until golden. Dice and add to breakfast casseroles quiches or scrambled eggs for a protein packed morning meal. The ham bone should never be discarded as it creates an incredible base for split pea or bean soup. My family particularly loves when I cube leftover ham and add it to macaroni and cheese creating a meal that bridges the gap between holiday feast and everyday comfort food.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I know when the ham is fully cooked?

Since this recipe uses a pre-cooked ham, you're essentially reheating it. The ham is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part without touching the bone for accuracy.

→ Can I make the glaze in advance?

Yes! The orange-honey glaze can be prepared up to 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Gently reheat before applying to the ham.

→ Why is the ham rested after cooking?

The 15-20 minute resting period is crucial as it allows the meat's juices to redistribute throughout the ham. If carved immediately, these flavorful juices would run out, resulting in drier meat.

→ Can I use a different type of ham?

While spiral-cut bone-in ham works best for this method as the glaze seeps between the slices, you can use a non-spiral ham. Just score the outside in a diamond pattern about 1/4-inch deep to help the glaze penetrate the meat.

→ What sides pair well with honey glazed ham?

Classic pairings include scalloped potatoes, roasted vegetables, dinner rolls, and green bean casserole. The sweet-savory flavor of the ham also works beautifully with something acidic like a fresh salad with vinaigrette.

→ Can I use the drippings for anything?

Absolutely! The drippings from the pan, which include orange juice and glaze, make an excellent base for a sauce. Strain and reduce them slightly, then serve alongside the carved ham for extra flavor.