Irresistible Bourbon Maple Glazed Ham Recipe You’ll Love

Imagine walking into your kitchen, the sweet scent of bourbon and maple swirling together like a romantic comedy plot twist. You can almost hear the ham sizzling, its glaze gleaming like a freshly polished trophy, begging for attention. Your family gathers, eyes wide with anticipation as they wonder if this Bourbon Maple Glazed Ham will be the star of the show. Spoiler alert: it totally will.

Now, let me take you back to that Christmas dinner when I first introduced this glazed beauty to my family. My uncle declared it “the best thing since sliced bread,” which is quite a compliment from a guy who thinks microwave popcorn is gourmet. The laughter that filled the room was just as rich as the flavor of this ham, and I knew then that this dish would make its way into my heart—and my recipe book—forever.

Let me tell you about that moment when I served this dish; my family was practically licking their plates clean. It was clear everyone had fallen under its spell!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Bone-In Ham: A bone-in ham adds flavor and moisture; aim for 8-10 pounds for a crowd-pleaser.
• Bourbon: Choose a decent quality bourbon; it makes all the difference in depth of flavor.
• Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup is essential; artificial syrups won’t give you that rich sweetness.
• Brown Sugar: Use light brown sugar for a subtle caramel note to balance the glaze.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds tanginess; don’t skip it or your glaze may taste one-dimensional.
• Cinnamon: A pinch of ground cinnamon brings warmth to the glaze; just trust me on this one!
• Cloves: Whole cloves are great for studding; remove them before serving unless you want surprise bites!

For the Sauce:

• Apple Cider Vinegar: A splash helps cut through sweetness, giving balance to your glaze.
• Garlic Powder: For an aromatic touch without the hassle of chopping fresh garlic.
• Pineapple Juice (optional): If you’re feeling fruity, add some pineapple juice for an extra zing!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Bourbon Maple Glazed Ham

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This temperature lets your ham warm gently while absorbing all those amazing flavors.

Create Your Glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together bourbon, maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and cinnamon until smooth and glistening. This glaze should smell divine—like a cozy hug on a chilly day.

Prep Your Ham: Score the surface of your ham in a diamond pattern using a sharp knife. This allows the glaze to seep in better while creating an attractive presentation.

Coat with Cloves (Optional): If you’re feeling fancy, stud your ham with whole cloves at each intersection of your diamond cuts. It adds elegance and warmth—who knew cloves could be so chic?

Glaze Generously!: Brush half of your fabulous bourbon maple mixture over the ham. Ensure you cover every inch because no one likes a naked ham—trust me on this!

Bake Away!: Place your ham in a roasting pan and bake uncovered for about 1 hour and 30 minutes or until heated through (about 140°F internal temp). Every 20 minutes or so, baste with remaining glaze for maximum flavor infusion.

Once it’s done baking, let it rest before slicing into that glorious masterpiece—this step is crucial! The aromas wafting through your kitchen will have everyone gathering around like moths to a flame.

Now that you’ve created this culinary delight that’s sure to impress at any gathering—from holidays to casual weeknight dinners—get ready for compliments galore! Serve it alongside some roasted veggies or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal that’ll have people asking for seconds—and maybe thirds!

And there you have it: Bourbon Maple Glazed Ham that’s not only easy but also downright spectacular! Enjoy every bite as you bask in the glory of being crowned “Chef Extraordinaire” at your next gathering!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Score the ham’s surface in a diamond pattern, then rub it with spices. Combine bourbon and maple syrup to create a glaze. Bake the ham for about 15 minutes per pound, basting every 30 minutes for even flavor distribution.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to add your favorite spices into the glaze, such as cinnamon or cloves, to elevate the flavor profile. You can also experiment with a combination of brown sugar and honey for added sweetness, or even toss in some crushed pineapple for a tropical twist.

Storing & Reheating

To store your Bourbon Maple Glazed Ham, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator for up to five days. When reheating, slice the ham and warm it gently in the oven at 275°F (135°C) until heated through, ensuring it stays juicy.

It was during a family gathering when my aunt tasted this ham and declared it her new favorite dish. Her enthusiasm made me realize how food can bring people together in such delightful ways.

FAQ

What type of ham is best for Bourbon Maple Glazed Ham?

The best type of ham is a bone-in spiral-cut ham as it allows easier slicing and retains moisture during cooking. Look for hams labeled “fully cooked,” so you only need to heat them through while infusing them with flavor from the glaze.

Can I use whiskey instead of bourbon?

Absolutely! While bourbon adds a distinctive sweetness, any whiskey can work well in this recipe. Just remember that each type of whiskey brings its unique flavor characteristics that may slightly alter your dish’s final taste.

How long does it take to cook a Bourbon Maple Glazed Ham?

Generally, plan on baking your ham for about 15 minutes per pound at 325°F (163°C). For example, if you have a 10-pound ham, allow roughly two hours and thirty minutes for it to heat properly while absorbing those glorious flavors.

Can leftovers be frozen?

Yes! You can freeze leftover glazed ham slices by wrapping them tightly in freezer-safe bags or containers. They can be stored for up to three months without losing flavor or texture when reheated properly later on.

Conclusion for Bourbon Maple Glazed Ham

In conclusion, mastering this Bourbon Maple Glazed Ham recipe is all about timing and attention to detail. From understanding the cooking process to personalizing your touch with unique ingredients, you’ll create a dish that’s not only delicious but also memorable. Don’t forget proper storage techniques so you can savor those amazing flavors long after the feast ends! Enjoy sharing this culinary masterpiece with friends and family!