Irresistible Glazed Baked Ham with Cloves Recipe

Picture this: a succulent, perfectly glazed ham, glistening under the kitchen lights like it’s just won the culinary lottery. The aroma wafts through your home, wrapping you in a warm embrace of sweet and savory notes that instantly transport you to a holiday feast. Glazed Baked Ham with Cloves isn’t just food; it’s an experience, a celebration on your plate that promises to make any gathering feel special.

This dish has been a staple at my family gatherings for years, often stealing the spotlight at Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner. Just when you think the turkey is getting all the applause, in walks the Glazed Baked Ham with Cloves, ready to claim its throne. Trust me; it’s hard not to feel excited about digging into this masterpiece.

I remember one particular holiday when my cousin tasted this ham for the first time and declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” He wasn’t wrong!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Bone-in Ham: A 7-10 pound bone-in ham will provide maximum flavor and juiciness.
• Brown Sugar: Try using dark brown sugar for a richer caramelized flavor.
• Honey: Opt for pure honey to add natural sweetness that balances the spices.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy kick that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Whole Cloves: These aromatic gems create warm spice notes; stick them into the ham in a pretty pattern.
• Pineapple Juice: Use fresh or canned juice to bring out bright tropical flavors in your glaze.
• Cinnamon Powder: A touch of ground cinnamon adds warmth without being overpowering.
• Ground Nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg gives depth and richness to the glaze.

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

How to Make Glazed Baked Ham with Cloves

Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C). This moderate temperature allows the ham to heat evenly without drying out.

Prepare Your Ham: Place your ham on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Score the surface in a diamond pattern without cutting too deep.

Stud with Cloves: Insert whole cloves into each diamond intersection of your scored ham. This not only looks beautiful but infuses wonderful flavor.

Create Your Glaze: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, pineapple juice, cinnamon powder, and ground nutmeg. Stir until bubbling and well-combined.

Brush and Bake Your Ham: Generously brush half of your glaze over the ham. Cover loosely with foil and bake for about 1 hour.

Add More Flavor: After an hour, remove foil and baste with remaining glaze. Continue baking uncovered for an additional 30-45 minutes until heated through and caramelized on top.

Now stand back and watch as your Glazed Baked Ham dazzles everyone at the table! The sweet aroma will draw everyone closer as they eagerly anticipate their first bite.

Enjoying this dish brings together friends and family around that glorious table where laughter flows as freely as the gravy. So grab that fork and dig in—it’s time for some serious feasting!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Score the ham and stud it with cloves before applying the glaze. Bake covered for the first hour, then uncover and baste every 20 minutes for a sticky finish. This sequence ensures your ham is juicy and flavorful.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out brown sugar for maple syrup in your glaze for a unique sweetness. Adding a splash of orange juice can brighten the flavor profile, while a hint of mustard adds a delightful tang. Experiment with spices like cinnamon or ginger to create your signature ham!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover glazed baked ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, cover it with foil and warm in a 325°F (163°C) oven until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. This method keeps the ham moist and delicious.

Sharing my first attempt at making this dish brings back fond memories; my family couldn’t stop raving about how amazing it turned out! They even asked me to make it every holiday.

FAQ

What type of ham is best for glazing?

Using a bone-in ham provides more flavor and moisture during cooking, resulting in a juicier dish. Look for options labeled “fully cooked” to save time as you prepare your glaze masterpiece.

Can I use a different sweetener in the glaze?

Yes! Honey or agave syrup can be used instead of brown sugar or maple syrup. Adjust quantities according to your taste preference, but remember that each sweetener has its own unique flavor profile that will change the final result.

How can I tell when my glazed baked ham is done?

A digital meat thermometer is your best friend here! Aim for an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) when reheating fully cooked ham or 145°F (63°C) if it’s uncooked. Let it rest before slicing for maximum juiciness.

Can I freeze leftover glazed baked ham?

Absolutely! Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in airtight freezer bags. Frozen ham can last up to six months; just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion for Glazed Baked Ham with Cloves

In summary, mastering this Glazed Baked Ham with Cloves involves precise technique, creative flavor additions, and proper storage methods to maintain quality. With these tips under your belt, you’ll create an irresistible centerpiece that delights everyone around the table—making every meal memorable!