If you are looking for a show-stopping centerpiece that bursts with flavor and brings warmth to any gathering, this Honey Mustard Maple Glazed Ham Recipe is exactly what you need. The perfect harmony of sweet maple syrup, tangy Dijon mustard, and the gentle floral notes of honey come together to coat a succulent spiral-cut ham in a caramelized glaze that’s simply irresistible. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a special weekend dinner, this dish promises juicy, tender slices with a dazzling golden crust that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Honey Mustard Maple Glazed Ham Recipe calls for a handful of straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role in shaping the final flavor, texture, and appearance. They are easy to find but essential to achieving that perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes that coat the ham beautifully.
- 8-pound bone-in spiral-cut half ham (smoked or uncured): The star of the show, its pre-sliced nature ensures even glazing and effortless serving.
- 2 tablespoons honey: Adds a natural sweetness and helps the glaze develop a lovely sheen and sticky texture.
- 1 cup pure maple syrup: Infuses depth with rich, caramel undertones and enhances caramelization during broiling.
- ½ cup Dijon mustard: Brings a subtle tang and just the right amount of spice to cut through the sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Sprinkled on the ham pre-baking, it crisps up the edges with a gentle caramel flavor.
How to Make Honey Mustard Maple Glazed Ham Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 275°F. This low and slow temperature is key for gently warming the ham without drying it out, allowing flavors to meld beautifully over time.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Glaze
In a small bowl, combine honey, pure maple syrup, and Dijon mustard. Whisk these ingredients until they are fully blended into a smooth, luscious glaze. Cover and chill it in the refrigerator so it’s ready when your ham comes out of the oven.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Pan
Line a deep roasting pan with parchment paper. This simple step helps catch any drips and ensures easy cleanup while helping the ham sit securely during cooking.
Step 4: Place the Ham in the Pan
Remove the ham from all packaging and position it flat-side down in your prepared pan. This orientation helps it cook evenly and keeps the juices locked inside.
Step 5: Coat with Brown Sugar
Generously rub brown sugar all over the top and sides of the ham. This layer will caramelize during baking, giving the ham a stunning, slightly crispy crust that’s packed with flavor.
Step 6: Bake Covered for Perfection
Tightly cover the pan with aluminum foil and slide it into the oven. Bake for around 15 minutes per pound. For an 8-pound ham, this means about 2 hours of slow roasting to warm through and let the sugars melt seamlessly into the meat.
Step 7: Glaze and Broil
Once the baking time is complete, remove the foil and turn your oven to broil. Pour the honey mustard maple glaze generously over the ham’s surface, making sure every slice gets a drizzle of that delicious sauce.
Step 8: Caramelize the Glaze
Place the ham back in the oven, uncovered, under the broiler. Keep a close eye on it and broil for 5 to 8 minutes until the glaze bubbles and caramelizes into a beautiful, golden-brown crust without burning.
Step 9: Slice and Serve
Once glazed to perfection, take the ham out, slice it along the spiral cuts, and serve immediately while warm and juicy. Prepare for smiles and compliments!
How to Serve Honey Mustard Maple Glazed Ham Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme add a fragrant, uplifting touch when sprinkled on top just before serving. Thinly sliced oranges or cranberries can also brighten the plate and add a pop of color that complements the glaze’s warm hues.
Side Dishes
This glazed ham pairs beautifully with classic sides such as creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a vibrant green bean almondine. For a bit of contrast, try a tangy cranberry sauce or a fresh apple coleslaw to balance the richness of the ham.
Creative Ways to Present
For festive occasions, arrange slices on a large wooden board surrounded by seasonal fruits and nuts. You can also serve individual pieces atop a bed of wild rice or mixed greens for an elegant plated look that impresses at dinner parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover ham tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to maintain its moisture and flavor. Stored in the refrigerator, it stays delicious for up to 4 days, making for easy next-day meals or snacks.
Freezing
If you want to save ham for longer, freezing is a great option. Slice it first for convenience, then package portions in heavy-duty freezer bags or vacuum-sealed packs. Frozen ham will keep well for up to 2 months without sacrificing taste.
Reheating
To reheat, wrap the ham slices in foil and warm them gently in the oven at 275°F until heated through. Adding a little extra maple glaze before reheating helps revive that fresh, sticky sweetness and keeps slices tender.
FAQs
Can I use a fully cooked ham for this Honey Mustard Maple Glazed Ham Recipe?
Absolutely! Most spiral-cut hams come fully cooked, so this recipe is really about warming the ham through and adding that incredible glaze. Just follow the baking time per pound to heat it thoroughly without drying it.
What if I don’t have maple syrup—can I substitute something else?
While pure maple syrup provides a distinctive warmth and depth, you can use honey or a combination of brown sugar and water as alternatives. Just keep in mind the flavor profile may change slightly and the glaze might not caramelize quite the same way.
Is it necessary to broil the ham at the end?
Yes, broiling at the end is what caramelizes the glaze and creates that beautiful golden crust. Without it, the glaze won’t have the same luscious, sticky texture that makes this recipe special. Just watch it carefully to prevent burning.
Can I prepare this ham a day in advance?
You can bake the ham a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. When ready to serve, gently reheat it covered with foil at a low temperature and then finish with the glaze and broil step for maximum freshness and shine.
How thick should I slice the ham for serving?
Since it’s spiral-cut, slices are already nicely portioned and thin. Serving them as is allows the glaze to cling perfectly and makes for easy, elegant plating that everyone will appreciate.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly comforting and joyous about gathering around a table with a beautifully glazed ham as the centerpiece, and this Honey Mustard Maple Glazed Ham Recipe delivers that feeling every time. The balance of sweet and tangy flavors paired with tender, juicy meat makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—you might just find yourself making it a beloved tradition.
