Indulge in a mouthwatering Maple Glazed Ham, a festive centerpiece for your Holiday dinner! This bone-in ham is topped and roasted with a delectable sweet, tangy, citrusy, and spiced maple glaze, resulting in a caramelized coating that’s simply irresistible. Pair this with a slice of homemade rustic bread for a showstopping dinner table!

An side view of a maple gazed ham, with several slices cut into the ham.

The Importance of Basting

While the basting step may appear trivial, it is the most important in the perfect maple-glazed ham. Invest in a reliable heat-resistant basting brush, ensuring to consistently check and baste the ham every 15-20 minutes. This process is crucial for preserving the ham’s moisture and preventing it from drying out during the cooking process. If you don’t have a basting brush, use a large spoon to scoop up and spoon the basting liquid over the maple-glazed ham.

ingredients and substitutions

Ham

Opt for a bone-in ham; non-spiral sliced is recommended. Adjust cooking time for spiral ham or boneless ham.

Maple Syrup

Choose pure maple syrup for the foundation of this glaze and for that beautiful glossy finish. Honey can be a substitute for a different flavor profile.

Brown Sugar

Brown sugar provides sweetness and caramelization during cooking.

Mustard

Dijon mustard gives the glaze a tangy kick. Yellow mustard is a suitable substitute.

Apple Cider Vinegar

White wine vinegar or distilled white vinegar are suitable substitutions.

An overhead view of a maple gazed ham, with several slices cut into the ham.

prep ahead & storage instructions

Making the Glaze Ahead of Time

Prepare the glaze in advance by mixing ingredients in a saucepan and warming the mixture until the sugar dissolves. Store the maple glaze in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, reheating to a pourable consistency when ready to use.

Storing Leftover Maple Glazed Ham

Cool the leftover ham to room temperature, slice or portion for easier use, and store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Ideal for recipes like Ham and Potato Soup.

Freezing Leftover Ham

Freeze your leftover ham in freezer-safe containers for 1-2 months. Don’t forget to label and date the packaging.

Defrosting Frozen Ham

Follow USDA guidelines for safe thawing:

Refrigerator: Thaw slowly (4-6 hours per pound).

Cold Water: Submerge the ham in an airtight plastic bag, changing the water every 30 minutes.

Microwave: Use immediately after thawing.

Serving Suggestions

When you are planning your holiday menu, make sure to also include these staples on your dinner table!

An overhead view of a maple gazed ham, with several slices cut into the ham.

Maple Glazed Ham

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Resting Time 15 minutes
Indulge in a mouthwatering Maple Glazed Ham, a festive centerpiece for your Holiday dinner! This bone-in ham is topped and roasted with a delectable sweet, tangy, spiced, and citrusy maple glaze, resulting in a caramelized coating that's simply irresistible.
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Ingredients

  • 1 whole bone in ham (8-9 lbs)
  • ½ cup (100 g) light brown sugar, packed
  • ¼ cup (79 g) maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon orange zest, optional

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
  • Place the ham on a sturdy cutting board. Using a sharp knife, score the top of the ham by making shallow cuts (about ¼ to ½-inch deep) in a crisscross pattern. Ensure the cuts are 1-2 inches apart, forming a diamond or checkerboard pattern.
  • Position the scored ham in a roasting pan with the scored side facing up.
  • In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and optional orange zest. Stir frequently until the sugar dissolves, and the sauce slightly thickens.
  • Pour half of the glaze over the scored ham, reserving the remaining half for later. Tent the ham loosely with aluminum foil.
  • Roast the ham for 2 hours, basting with pan juices every 30 minutes.
  • A few minutes before removing the ham from the oven, reheat the reserved glaze in the saucepan until heated through (3-5 minutes).
  • Once the ham reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), remove it from the oven. Pour the warm glaze over the ham. Allow the ham to rest for about 15 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 10people | Calories: 305kcal
Course: Main Course
Keyword: Dinner, Ham
Servings: 10
Calories: 305

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