If you are searching for a dish that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and a hint of spice, then this Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed Ham Recipe is bound to become your go-to centerpiece for holidays or special gatherings. The luscious cranberry glaze enriched with Dijon mustard and a touch of cayenne pepper transforms a simple ham into a spectacular feast, with each bite delivering a burst of flavor and a beautiful, glossy finish that will impress everyone at your table!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right for this Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed Ham Recipe is simple but essential. Each component plays a crucial role, bringing vibrant color, balanced sweetness, and a perfect spicy punch to complement the savory ham.
- 2 cups fresh cranberries: Freshness is key here for that bright, tart flavor and a vibrant red color.
- 1/4 cup water: Helps soften the cranberries and create the sauce base.
- 1/4 cup honey: Adds natural sweetness that balances the tartness of the cranberries.
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: Provides a tangy depth that complements the sweetness beautifully.
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar: Introduces a sharp acidity that brightens the glaze.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Brings warmth and caramel notes that enhance the glaze’s richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adds a gentle spice to keep things interesting without overpowering.
- 5-6 pound cooked ham (spiral sliced preferred): The star of the dish, already cooked, which makes preparation quick and easy.
How to Make Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed Ham Recipe
Step 1: Create the Cranberry Sauce Base
Start by combining the fresh cranberries, water, and honey in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally and enjoy the delightful sound of berries popping open—it usually takes about 4 to 5 minutes. This releases their natural juices that will form the heart of your glaze.
Step 2: Add Depth with Mustard, Vinegar, and Sweetness
Once the cranberries have softened, stir in Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. The mix of tangy, sweet, and spicy ingredients melds beautifully as you cook for another 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens to a lovely, syrupy consistency.
Step 3: Puree the Sauce
For the perfect smooth glaze, use an immersion blender right in the saucepan to puree the cranberry mixture. If you don’t have one, very carefully transfer the warm mixture to a blender, keeping a towel over the vent to avoid steam burns, and blend until silky smooth. This step ensures your glaze coats the ham evenly and beautifully.
Step 4: Prepare the Ham and Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F and set up your roasting pan with a rack—it’s important to keep the ham elevated to prevent sogginess. Take your 5-6 pound cooked ham and score the surface diagonally with a sharp serrated knife. This allows the glaze to seep into every nook and cranny for maximum flavor penetration.
Step 5: Apply the First Coat of Glaze and Roast
Brush the entire ham with a generous layer of your cranberry-Dijon glaze. Place the ham on the rack and roast in your preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2.25 hours, aiming for an internal temperature of 135°F. This is enough to heat through since your ham is already cooked, and the slow roasting will help that glaze caramelize beautifully.
Step 6: Glaze Again Before Finishing
About 20 minutes before the end of the roasting time, pull the ham out briefly to brush on one more coat of your glaze. This final layer adds a luscious, sticky finish that makes the ham a show-stopping experience once it’s served.
Step 7: Serve with Warmed Extra Glaze
Once out of the oven, let the ham rest a few minutes and serve it with the remaining cranberry-Dijon glaze, warmed up so it’s the perfect complement to every slice. Your guests will relish the delightful balance of flavors in every bite!
How to Serve Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed Ham Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme add a lovely aroma and a pop of green contrast that looks stunning against the deep red glaze. Sprinkle some toasted pecans or slivered almonds on top for a crunchy texture that elevates the presentation and taste.
Side Dishes
Classic sides such as creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a simple green bean almondine pair wonderfully with this ham dish. For a festive touch, consider warm spiced apples or even a wild rice pilaf to soak up any extra glaze.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the ham thickly and arrange it on a large platter with clusters of fresh cranberries and orange slices around the edges for a pop of color and citrusy brightness. A rustic wooden board or a festive holiday tray also makes serving effortless and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from this Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed Ham Recipe stay fresh best when tightly wrapped in foil or placed in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for 3 to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy the flavors again without losing the glaze’s charm.
Freezing
If you want to freeze slices, wrap them individually in plastic wrap first to prevent freezer burn, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. The ham can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing much of its original texture or taste.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the ham slices in the oven at 275°F wrapped in foil to retain moisture, or use the microwave if you’re short on time. Heat the cranberry-Dijon glaze separately and drizzle it over the slices before serving to refresh the glaze’s vibrancy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just fine and might even break down more easily when cooking, but you may need to add a minute or two to the cooking time to achieve that perfect syrupy glaze.
Do I need to cook a fully cooked ham again for this recipe?
Since the ham is already cooked, the goal here is just to heat it through thoroughly and develop that fantastic glaze. Roasting for about 20-25 minutes per pound at 325°F ensures your ham is warm and juicy without drying out.
Can I make the glaze in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cranberry-Dijon glaze a day ahead and refrigerate it. Reheat gently before glazing the ham to ensure it’s smooth and spreadable.
What if I don’t have an immersion blender?
No problem! Carefully transfer your cranberry mixture to a countertop blender and blend in batches if needed, just be sure to vent the lid or keep it slightly open with a towel to safely release steam.
Is the cayenne pepper necessary?
The cayenne is there to add a subtle warmth that balances the sweet and tangy flavors. If you prefer no heat, you can reduce or omit it, but a little spice really makes this glaze stand out.
Final Thoughts
This Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed Ham Recipe is truly a showstopper, combining festive flavors with ease of preparation. Whether it’s a holiday meal or a special family dinner, it’s a reliable recipe that’s both comforting and impressive. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do, and that it becomes a cherished favorite on your table too!
