When the golden hues of autumn start to peek through my kitchen window, the warmth of a homemade Honey Baked Ham is the first thing that comes to mind. This recipe takes me back to family gatherings filled with laughter and the sweet, smoky scent of ham wafting through the air. Nothing beats the satisfaction of crafting my own version of this beloved classic, allowing me to savor every bite without the hefty price tag of store-bought options.
Imagine serving a glorious ham, tender on the inside with a luscious caramelized crust that crackles delightfully with every slice. This simplified version not only elevates any special occasion but also invites everyone to the table, creating moments that linger long after the meal is done. Let’s dive into this easy yet impressive recipe that promises to make your holidays merrier and your gatherings unforgettable!
Why is Copycat Honey Baked Ham a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: You’ll love the balance of sweet honey and tangy Dijon mustard that creates a glaze bursting with flavor.
Effortless Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned chefs looking for a quick, home-cooked masterpiece.
Perfect for Gatherings: This showstopper ham is sure to delight family and friends, making it the highlight of any festive meal.
Versatile Serving: Pair it with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes, for a complete feast that satisfies every guest.
Cost-Effective: Save money without sacrificing flavor by making this homemade version instead of buying the expensive store-bought alternatives.
Easily Adaptable: Want a different twist? Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations, such as adding bourbon for a richer taste.
Embrace the warmth of home-cooked meals with this delightful dish that brings everyone together!
Copycat Honey Baked Ham Ingredients
• Get ready for a sweet and savory feast!
For the Glaze
- Honey – Sweetness and flavor; use pure honey for the best taste.
- Unsalted Butter, melted – Adds richness and helps to blend the glaze; substitution not recommended for best results.
- Dijon Mustard – Provides a tangy flavor that balances sweetness; can substitute with yellow mustard if needed.
- Onion Powder – Adds savory depth; fresh onions can be used in a pinch.
- Sweet Paprika – Contributes color and mild flavor; smoked paprika can be used for a smokier flavor profile.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Offers subtle heat; freshly ground is best for flavor intensity.
- Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and sweetness; can be omitted for a less spiced flavor.
- Ground Ginger – Enhances the overall flavor complexity; fresh ginger can be substituted but adjust quantity.
- Ground Cloves – Provides a warm aromatic flavor; use cautiously as it can overpower.
- Ground Nutmeg – Adds a nutty flavor; omit if not preferred.
For the Ham
- (8-lb.) Smoked Half Bone-In Spiral-Cut Ham – The main component; a bone-in ham maintains juiciness and flavor during cooking; a boneless ham may dry out quicker.
- Granulated Sugar – Creates the caramelized crust; brown sugar can be a sweeter alternative.
Now you have everything you need to create a sensational Copycat Honey Baked Ham that’s sure to impress!
How to Make Copycat Honey Baked Ham
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Prepare the Glaze: In a bowl, combine honey, melted butter, Dijon mustard, onion powder, sweet paprika, black pepper, and all ground spices. Stir until smooth to create a delightful and flavorful glaze.
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Prepare the Ham: Place your smoked half bone-in spiral-cut ham in a roasting pan, cut side down. Lightly score the surface in a diamond pattern, allowing the glaze to penetrate and maximize flavor.
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Apply the Glaze: Generously coat the ham with the glaze you prepared, ensuring every crevice is covered for maximum flavor depth during roasting.
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Roast the Ham: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and roast the ham for approximately 2.5 hours, basting it with the pan juices every 30 minutes for added moisture and flavor.
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Create the Crust: In the last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle granulated sugar over the ham and increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) to caramelize. Watch closely to prevent burning, as the sugar can quickly darken.
Optional: For added flavor, garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Copycat Honey Baked Ham
Fridge: Store leftover ham in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. It will keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining its flavor and moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the ham in aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy your Copycat Honey Baked Ham again, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the ham in a covered baking dish with a splash of broth to keep it moist, and heat for about 20 minutes.
Leftover Ideas: Use leftover ham in sandwiches, soups, or fried rice to minimize waste and savor the delightful flavors in new meals!
What to Serve with Copycat Honey Baked Ham?
When you unveil a beautiful ham at your gathering, it’s time to think about the perfect companions that will create a harmonious feast.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery texture complements the sweet and savory flavors of the ham, making every bite a delight.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy, caramelized greens add a touch of earthiness, balancing the ham’s sweetness while offering a satisfying crunch.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet yet slightly tangy, these vibrant carrots echo the ham’s flavor profile, creating a deliciously cohesive theme.
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Classic Green Bean Almondine: A fresh, bright veggie side with almonds adds a nutty texture, refreshing the palate between each succulent slice of ham.
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Zesty Coleslaw: This crunchy salad tosses in a tangy bite, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich, caramelized ham, making every mouthful feel vibrant.
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Buttery Cornbread: Soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet, cornbread is a delightful pairing that soaks up the ham’s juices and adds comfort to your meal.
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Sweet Potato Casserole: Topped with a buttery pecan crumble, this dish offers a luscious sweetness and creamy texture that beautifully complements the honey-baked ham.
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Savory Herb Stuffing: The medley of herbs adds depth, while the warm, comforting bread rounds out the meal. It feels like a warm hug on a plate.
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Sparkling Cider: A refreshing drink with just the right amount of fizz that makes the flavors pop while keeping the atmosphere festive and lively.
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Pumpkin Pie: As a delightful ending, this classic dessert with its spiced filling mirrors the warm flavors in the ham, providing a satisfying finish to a hearty meal.
Copycat Honey Baked Ham Variations
Embrace creativity in your kitchen with these delightful twists to this classic ham recipe that everyone will love!
- Bourbon Glaze: Substitute bourbon for some of the honey in the glaze for a rich, smoky depth. This not only enhances flavor but also adds a hint of warmth.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a subtle heat that balances the sweetness perfectly. Feel the gentle warmth tingle your taste buds with every bite.
- Fruit Infusion: Surround the ham with fresh pineapple slices or apricots before roasting to infuse sweetness and a pop of color. It transforms the dish into a fruit-laden delight that’s visually stunning!
- Maple Sweetness: Swap honey for pure maple syrup for a different but equally delicious sweetness that adds a unique flavor profile. This surprising ingredient will keep your guests guessing!
- Herb-Infused Glaze: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the glaze for a fragrant, savory note that brightens every slice. The aroma of herbs wafting through your kitchen is truly heartwarming.
- Smoky Essence: Use smoked paprika instead of sweet paprika to intensify the ham’s flavor with a kiss of smokiness. This adjustment really amps up the comfort factor in this homestyle dish!
- Citrus Zing: Mix in a splash of orange juice and zest into the glaze for a refreshing citrus twist that complements the sweetness beautifully. Let the bright flavors dance on your palate!
- Nutty Crunch: Finish the dish by sprinkling crushed walnuts or pecans over the caramelized crust just before serving for added texture and a delightful crunch. It’s the little touches that can make a big difference!
Feel free to explore these variations and make this Copycat Honey Baked Ham uniquely yours!
Make Ahead Options
These Copycat Honey Baked Ham preparations are perfect for busy home cooks! You can prepare the glaze up to 24 hours in advance by combining the honey, melted butter, Dijon mustard, and spices. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can score the ham and apply the glaze as much as 3 days ahead, ensuring to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When it’s time to enjoy, simply roast the ham as directed, adding granulated sugar during the last 15 minutes for that delectable caramelized crust. This way, you save time and ensure your ham is just as delicious, ready to impress at meal time!
Expert Tips for Your Copycat Honey Baked Ham
Bone-In is Best: Always choose a bone-in ham for optimal moisture and flavor retention as it cooks. Boneless hams can dry out too quickly.
High-Quality Honey: Use pure honey for an unbeatable glaze that enhances the sweetness. Substandard honey may compromise the flavor profile.
Watch the Glaze: During the final stage of roasting, keep a close eye on the sugar as it caramelizes to avoid burning. Tent with foil if needed to prevent over-browning.
Make It Ahead: If you’re busy on the day of your gathering, prepare the ham a day in advance, allowing the glaze to develop even more flavor overnight.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to swap in unique ingredients like bourbon for an extra depth of flavor in your Copycat Honey Baked Ham glaze.
Perfect Pairings: Serve your ham alongside classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a refreshing salad to create a well-rounded meal everyone will love.
Copycat Honey Baked Ham Recipe FAQs
What type of ham is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, I strongly recommend using a smoked half bone-in spiral-cut ham. The bone helps retain moisture and flavor during the cooking process, ensuring you get that tender, juicy texture we’re all after. A boneless ham may dry out quicker and won’t give you the same satisfying result.
How do I properly store leftovers?
Very good question! To keep your leftover ham fresh, store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. You’ll want to enjoy it within 3 days to maintain both flavor and moisture. If you find yourself with more leftovers than you can eat in that time, it’s best to freeze it!
Can I freeze the ham for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze your Copycat Honey Baked Ham, start by wrapping it tightly in aluminum foil and then placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It will maintain its quality for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the ham overnight in the fridge.
What should I do if the glaze burns during roasting?
Oh no! If you notice that the glaze is burning during the final stages, don’t fret! You can tent the ham loosely with aluminum foil. This will protect the glaze while allowing the ham to continue cooking. Always keep an eye on it, especially in the last 15 minutes when the sugar caramelizes!
Can pets eat ham?
Great question! While ham can be tempting, it’s best to avoid giving it to pets, especially if it contains honey, spices, or is overly salty. They may enjoy a small, plain piece as an occasional treat, but make sure to consult your vet if you’re unsure about any other dietary restrictions.
Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
Yes, this recipe can be adapted for certain dietary considerations! If someone has a mustard allergy, feel free to use a different type of sweetener or glaze. Also, if you’re gluten-sensitive, ensure that all ingredients, especially the mustard, are gluten-free. Always double-check labels to keep everyone’s taste buds and health in check!
Irresistible Copycat Honey Baked Ham with Caramelized Crust
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine honey, melted butter, Dijon mustard, onion powder, sweet paprika, black pepper, and all ground spices. Stir until smooth to create a delightful glaze.
- Place your smoked half bone-in spiral-cut ham in a roasting pan, cut side down. Lightly score the surface in a diamond pattern.
- Generously coat the ham with the glaze, ensuring every crevice is covered for maximum flavor depth during roasting.
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and roast the ham for approximately 2.5 hours, basting it with the pan juices every 30 minutes.
- In the last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle granulated sugar over the ham and increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) to caramelize.