Irresistible Maple-Glazed Spiral Ham with Brown Sugar Recipe

The aroma of Maple-Glazed Spiral Ham with Brown Sugar & Mustard wafts through the air, enveloping you in a warm embrace. Its glossy glaze glistens under the kitchen lights, promising a flavor explosion that dances between sweet and savory. Imagine slicing through tender, juicy meat that practically melts in your mouth while that delightful glaze oozes into every crevice.

This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that beckons to be shared at family gatherings or celebratory feasts. As you take a bite, memories flood back of laughter around the table, holiday traditions, and the feeling of comfort food at its finest. Get ready to indulge in a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds singing!

One Thanksgiving, my cousin’s eyes lit up as he took his first bite of this ham. He joyfully declared it was “life-changing,” prompting seconds, thirds, and maybe even fourths from everyone at the table.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Spiral-Sliced Ham: A pre-cooked ham saves you time; just pick one with a nice glaze already included for added flavor.

• Maple Syrup: Choose pure maple syrup over imitation for that authentic sweetness and rich flavor.

• Brown Sugar: This adds depth and caramelization when baked; light or dark brown sugar works well.

• Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy twist that perfectly complements the sweetness of the maple syrup.

• Ground Cloves: A pinch brings warmth and spice to balance the flavors beautifully.

• Pineapple Juice: Using fresh juice enhances moisture and brightens the overall flavor profile.

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

How to Make Maple-Glazed Spiral Ham with Brown Sugar & Mustard

Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This temperature ensures even cooking while allowing the ham to heat through without drying out.

Prepare your ham: Remove packaging from your spiral-sliced ham and place it cut-side down in a roasting pan. This helps retain moisture during baking.

Mix the glaze: In a medium bowl, combine maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and pineapple juice until smooth. The mixture should have a sweet aroma that makes your mouth water.

Glaze the ham: Brush half of this luscious glaze generously over the surface of the ham. Make sure to get it into every slice; this is where all the magic happens.

Bake it low and slow: Cover the ham loosely with foil to keep it moist during baking and place it in the preheated oven for about 1 hour. The house will smell heavenly as it warms.

Baste and finish: After an hour has passed, remove the foil and baste with remaining glaze. Increase oven temperature to 400°F (204°C) for an additional 15 minutes until it caramelizes beautifully on top. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!

Let it rest: Once done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat for maximum tenderness.

And there you have it! Your Maple-Glazed Spiral Ham with Brown Sugar & Mustard is ready to dazzle at any gathering or cozy family dinner!

This showstopping Maple-Glazed Spiral Ham with Brown Sugar & Mustard delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home. The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest. Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C) while you prepare the ham. Score the surface to allow the glaze to seep in, then place it cut side down in a roasting pan. Bake for about 15 minutes per pound, glazing every 30 minutes. This method ensures even cooking and delicious flavor penetration.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out brown sugar for honey or maple syrup in the glaze for a unique twist. You can also add a hint of cinnamon or cloves to elevate the flavor profile further. Experiment with different mustard varieties to find your perfect match; Dijon brings a nice kick!

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover Maple-Glazed Spiral Ham, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to five days. When reheating, cover it with foil and bake at 325°F (163°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. This way, you’ll keep it juicy without drying it out.

When I first made this Maple-Glazed Spiral Ham for Thanksgiving, my family devoured it so fast that I barely got a slice! The sighs of contentment were music to my ears and solidified my love for this recipe forever.

FAQ

What type of ham is best for this recipe?

For this Maple-Glazed Spiral Ham with Brown Sugar & Mustard, opt for a fully cooked spiral-cut ham. The spiral cuts allow the glaze to penetrate deeply while ensuring even heating throughout each slice. Look for options labeled “bone-in” as they often provide better flavor than boneless varieties.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the maple glaze in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to use it. If you want to cook the ham beforehand, simply reheat it gently before serving with additional glaze applied during reheating to revitalize those flavors.

What sides pair well with Maple-Glazed Spiral Ham?

This delightful ham pairs beautifully with classic sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or sweet potato casserole. Consider adding fresh green beans or a tangy salad for some color and freshness on your holiday table!

How do I know when my ham is done cooking?

To ensure your Maple-Glazed Spiral Ham is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat without touching bone. It should reach an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) when it’s ready to serve—deliciously warm and safe!

Conclusion for Maple-Glazed Spiral Ham with Brown Sugar & Mustard

In summary, mastering Maple-Glazed Spiral Ham with Brown Sugar & Mustard is all about timing and technique. Preheat properly, choose quality ingredients, and don’t rush through resting time after cooking! With its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors paired with laughter around the table, this recipe will surely become your go-to centerpiece for any gathering or holiday feast!