Have you ever tasted a dish so delightful that it becomes a cherished tradition? That’s exactly how I feel about my Glazed Ham with Cloves. Trust me, I’ve made this mouthwatering recipe countless times for family gatherings, holiday feasts, and even just a cozy Sunday dinner at home. Each time, it wows my guests and fills my kitchen with an irresistible aroma. If you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious, you’re in for a treat! Let’s dive into the world of this sweet and savory marvel that’s bound to elevate your festive feast!
Why You’ll Love This Glazed Ham with Cloves
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you’ll be able to whip this up without breaking a sweat.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for any occasion, from holiday celebrations to casual family dinners.
- Stunning Presentation: The glossy glaze and aromatic cloves make for a beautiful centerpiece.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the glaze in advance, making your cooking stress-free!
- Sweet and Savory Flavor: The combination of honey, brown sugar, and cloves creates an unforgettable taste.
The Secret to Perfect Glazed Ham with Cloves
The secret to achieving the perfect Glazed Ham with Cloves lies in the glaze itself. The blend of honey, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard creates a sticky, sweet sauce that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Here’s my insider tip: apply the glaze in layers! Start with a base coat, bake for a while, and then generously apply additional glaze for that stunning, glossy finish. Trust me, this technique makes all the difference, and I promise you’ll be amazed at the results!
Rave Reviews from Friends and Followers
“I made this ham for Easter, and it was a total hit! Everyone went back for seconds!”
“This is the only ham recipe I’ll ever use. The flavor is out of this world!”
“I was nervous about making ham, but this recipe made it so easy. It turned out perfect!”
Creative Variations to Try
- Maple Glaze: Swap honey for maple syrup for a unique twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Citrus Zest: Incorporate orange or lemon zest for a bright, fresh flavor.
- Pineapple Essence: Add crushed pineapple to the glaze for a tropical vibe.
Bonus: Try adding a splash of bourbon to the glaze for a rich, smoky flavor that will take your ham to the next level!
FAQs – All Your Questions Answered!
Can I use a different type of ham? Absolutely! This glaze works well with bone-in, boneless, or even spiral-cut hams.
How do I store leftovers? Wrap the leftover ham tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze glazed ham? Yes! Just make sure to slice it first, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
What if my glaze is too thick? Add a splash of apple juice or water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
How long should I cook the ham? A general rule is about 15-18 minutes per pound at 325°F, but always check your ham’s packaging for specific instructions.
Storage/Serving Tips
- Store leftovers wrapped tightly in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freeze slices in an airtight container for up to 3 months for easy future meals.
- Serve with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Perfect Occasions for Glazed Ham with Cloves
- Holiday dinners like Easter and Christmas
- Family reunions or gatherings
- Birthday celebrations
- Sunday brunch with friends
- Game day feasts
- Potluck parties
The Complete Recipe
Thank you for sticking around! Let’s get to the good stuff: the recipe for this incredible Glazed Ham with Cloves.
Glazed Ham with Cloves
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- Whole cloves for studding the ham
Tip: Use a quality ham for the best flavor. A spiral-cut ham saves time on slicing, but any bone-in ham will work beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F. This is the perfect temperature for a slow, even cook that will keep your ham juicy and flavorful.
Step 2: Prepare the Ham
Place the ham on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Using a sharp knife, score the surface in a diamond pattern to help the glaze penetrate and flavor the meat.
Step 3: Stud with Cloves
Take your whole cloves and stud them into the intersections of the diamond cuts. This adds a lovely aromatic flavor that complements the glaze.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves. Heat over medium until the mixture is smooth and bubbly, stirring occasionally. This sweet concoction is where the magic happens!
Step 5: Apply the Glaze
Brush a generous amount of the glaze over the ham, making sure to get it into those diamond cuts. Reserve some glaze for later application during cooking.
Step 6: Bake
Bake the ham in the preheated oven for about 2 to 2.5 hours, basting it with the reserved glaze every 30 minutes. This will create that gorgeous caramelized exterior that you’ll love!
Step 7: Check for Doneness
Your ham is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F. Use a meat thermometer to be sure!
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Once done, let the ham rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is juicy and flavorful.
Enjoy your delicious creation! Each slice is sure to impress, and I can guarantee you’ll relish every bite.
Nutritional Information: This recipe serves approximately 12-15 people. Each serving is packed with protein and delightful flavors that make it a standout dish.
Final Thoughts
There you have it! My cherished recipe for Glazed Ham with Cloves that brings joy to every occasion. The sweet and savory blend, combined with the lovely presentation, makes this dish truly special. I can’t wait for you to try it and see the smiles on your loved ones’ faces when they experience this deliciousness. Remember, every celebration deserves a standout dish, and this ham is a game-changer. Give it a go, and I promise you’ll love it just as much as I do!