There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a honey-glazed ham baking in the oven — sweet, savory, and unmistakably festive. This recipe delivers a juicy, tender ham with a glossy, caramelized crust that crackles beautifully under the knife.
For best results, start with a quality smoked, bone-in ham — like those from our local Corralitos Market and Sausage Company — and baste it lovingly with a buttery glaze of honey, brown sugar, and grainy mustard. The result is a showstopping centerpiece that’s perfect for holiday gatherings, Sunday suppers, or any special occasion worth celebrating.
INGREDIENTS:
1 bone-in smoked ham (preferably from Corralitos Market and Sausage Company or other high-quality ham)
1 cup honey
1/4 cup packed dark brown sugar
1/4 cup whole-grain mustard
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
METHOD:
Remove any netting or packaging. Trim away excess fat, leaving about 1/4 inch for flavor and browning. Let the ham rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking.
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a large roasting pan with a double layer of heavy-duty foil for easy cleanup.
Place the ham cut-side down in the prepared pan. Cover first with a sheet of parchment paper, then tightly with foil. Bake for 45 minutes.
While the ham bakes, combine honey, brown sugar, mustard, and butter in a small saucepan. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter melts and the sugar fully dissolves, about 3 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
Remove the ham from the oven and increase the temperature to 425°F. Discard the parchment and foil. Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern (about 1/4 inch deep).
Brush generously with 1/3 cup glaze and return to the oven for 15 minutes. Repeat brushing every 15 minutes with the remaining glaze until the ham is deeply golden and caramelized, about 55–60 minutes total. (Note: For the best caramelized finish, don’t rush the glazing — multiple layers are key to developing that irresistible golden crust.)
Remove from the oven and let the ham rest, loosely tented with foil, for 20–30 minutes before slicing.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS:
- Pair with roasted cipollini onions, herbed potatoes, or buttered green beans.
- Serve warm with mustard sauce, chutney, or apple compote on the side.
- Leftovers make excellent sandwiches, breakfast hash, or split-pea soup.
- For a festive platter, garnish with roasted citrus slices and fresh rosemary sprigs.
YIELD: 8-10 servings
VARIATIONS:
Here are some other delicious ham glazes — Apple, Rum, and Raisin Ham Glaze, or Apricot Brandy Ham Glaze
