Description
Transform your holiday feast with our Maple-Bourbon Glazed Ham, a stunning centerpiece that combines sweetness and warmth in every bite. This succulent ham is baked to perfection and generously coated with a rich glaze made from pure maple syrup and smooth bourbon, resulting in a beautiful caramelized exterior. The glaze not only enhances the ham’s natural flavors but also adds a delightful complexity that will have your guests raving. Ideal for festive occasions, this dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it the star of any meal. Whether served on special occasions or for a cozy family dinner, this ham promises to bring warmth and joy to your table.
Ingredients
For the Ham
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8–10 pounds): The star of the dish, providing rich flavor and moisture.
- Whole cloves (optional): For adding aromatic flavor and decorative flair.
For the Maple-Bourbon Glaze
- 1 cup maple syrup: The sweet base of the glaze, adding depth and richness.
- ½ cup bourbon: Enhances the flavor profile with a warm, smoky note.
- ¼ cup brown sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a caramelized finish.
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: Provides a tangy contrast to the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: For a subtle kick.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Balances the sweetness with acidity.
Instructions
STEP 1: PREHEAT THE OVEN
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This temperature ensures that the ham cooks evenly and allows the glaze to caramelize beautifully.
STEP 2: PREPARE THE HAM
Place the ham on a cutting board. If desired, score the surface in a diamond pattern by making shallow cuts about an inch apart. This not only creates an attractive presentation but also allows the glaze to penetrate deeper into the meat. If using, insert whole cloves into the intersections of the scored lines for added flavor.
STEP 3: MAKE THE GLAZE
In a medium saucepan, combine the maple syrup, bourbon, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cinnamon, black pepper, and apple cider vinegar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the mixture is smooth and the sugar is dissolved. Bring the glaze to a simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and set aside.
STEP 4: BAKE THE HAM
Place the ham in a roasting pan, cut side down. Brush a generous amount of the maple-bourbon glaze over the surface of the ham, making sure to get it into the scored cuts. Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil to retain moisture.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Baste the ham with the glaze every 30 minutes, removing the foil during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the glaze to caramelize.
STEP 5: GLAZE AND CARAMELIZE
During the last 30 minutes of baking, remove the foil and brush the ham with additional glaze. This will create a beautifully caramelized exterior. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
STEP 6: REST AND SERVE
Once the ham is fully cooked and caramelized, remove it from the oven. Let it rest for about 15-20 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
Transfer the ham to a serving platter and drizzle any remaining glaze over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an elegant touch.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 25g