Glazed Ham for Easter Dinner

Glazed Ham for Easter Dinner: A Juicy, Sweet, and Showstopping Centerpiece 🍖🍍✨

1. Introduction

Easter dinner is all about tradition, family, and of course, delicious food that brings everyone together. This glazed ham recipe has been perfected over generations to deliver the ultimate combination of sweet caramelized crust and succulent, flavorful meat. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or an intimate meal, this dish will be the star of your holiday table. The best part? It’s surprisingly simple to prepare, leaving you more time to enjoy the festivities with your loved ones.

For those looking for alternative preparation methods, check out our easy glazed ham version that uses simpler ingredients without sacrificing flavor.

2. Ingredients

Gathering quality ingredients is key to making this Easter ham truly special. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 (8-10 lb) fully cooked bone-in ham (spiral-cut works great too)
• 1 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark both work)
• ½ cup high-quality honey (local honey adds wonderful flavor)
• ¼ cup Dijon mustard (or whole grain mustard for texture)
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (balances the sweetness)
• 1 tsp ground cloves (or whole cloves for studding)
• 1 can pineapple rings (optional, for classic presentation)
• Maraschino cherries (optional, for that traditional look)

For more dinner inspiration, browse our collection of holiday-worthy main dishes.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ham

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove any packaging from the ham and place it fat-side up on a sturdy cutting board. Using a sharp knife, score the surface in a diamond pattern, about ¼-inch deep – this helps the glaze penetrate and creates those beautiful caramelized edges. For extra flavor, insert whole cloves into the intersections of the cuts (about every 2 inches). This traditional technique adds warm spice notes that complement the sweet glaze perfectly.

If you’re looking for more baking tips, we have a whole section dedicated to perfecting your oven skills.

Step 2: Make the Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and ground cloves. The vinegar might seem unusual, but it’s crucial for balancing the sweetness. Simmer over medium-low heat, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon, until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly (about 5-7 minutes). You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly – it will continue to thicken as it cools.

For more sauce and glaze ideas, check out our ultimate seafood lasagna which features a delicious creamy sauce.

Step 3: Glaze the Ham

Place the prepared ham in a roasting pan, cut side down. Using a pastry brush, apply half of the warm glaze generously over the entire surface, making sure to get into all the scored areas. The scoring creates little pockets that hold the glaze, ensuring every bite is flavorful. If using pineapple rings and cherries (the classic decoration), arrange them over the ham and secure with toothpicks. Cover loosely with foil – this creates a steamy environment that keeps the ham moist while allowing the glaze to set.

For another impressive main dish option, try our cozy crockpot chicken stroganoff for a comforting meal.

Step 4: Finish Baking & Serve

After 1 hour, remove the foil and brush the ham with the remaining glaze. The initial covered baking time allows the flavors to penetrate while keeping the ham juicy. Now, increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake uncovered for another 20-30 minutes. Watch closely during this final stage – you want the glaze to bubble and caramelize to a deep golden brown, but not burn. The aroma filling your kitchen will be irresistible! Once done, transfer the ham to a serving platter and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is moist and tender.

For a completely different but equally delicious protein option, our keto ranch chicken is a great alternative.

4. Serving Suggestions

This glazed ham pairs beautifully with traditional Easter sides. Consider serving it with:

• Creamy scalloped potatoes or au gratin potatoes
• Roasted spring vegetables like asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts
• A fresh spring salad with strawberries and goat cheese
• Warm dinner rolls or cornbread
• For dessert, our Easter dirt cake casserole is always a hit with kids and adults alike

Looking for more side dish ideas? We’ve got plenty of options to complement your Easter feast.

5. Storage Tips

Leftover ham is incredibly versatile! Store it properly by:

• Refrigerating in an airtight container for up to 5 days
• Freezing sliced portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months (great for future soups or casseroles)
• Using leftovers in sandwiches, omelets, or our delicious marry me chicken soup

6. Variations

While the classic version is always a winner, feel free to experiment with these tasty variations:

• Spicy Glaze: Add 1 tsp of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce for a sweet-heat combination
• Maple Glaze: Substitute honey with pure maple syrup for a deeper, richer sweetness
• Citrus Twist: Add ¼ cup orange or pineapple juice to the glaze for extra brightness
• Bourbon Glaze: Stir in 2 tbsp bourbon with the other glaze ingredients for sophisticated depth

For more inspiration, check out this glazed Easter ham recipe from The Pioneer Woman.

7. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced cooks can make these ham mistakes:

• Overcooking: Remember, the ham is already cooked – you’re just heating it through and setting the glaze
• Not Scoring Deep Enough: Shallow cuts won’t hold enough glaze for maximum flavor
• Skipping Rest Time: Cutting too soon means losing precious juices
• Using Cold Glaze: Warm glaze spreads more evenly and absorbs better
• Overcrowding the Pan: Leave space around the ham for even heat circulation

8. FAQs

Q: Can I use a boneless ham?
A: Yes, but bone-in ham tends to be more flavorful and juicy. If using boneless, reduce cooking time by about 15 minutes.

Q: Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Gently reheat before using to make it spreadable again.

Q: How do I prevent the glaze from burning?
A: The foil tent for the first hour helps, and watch closely during the final uncovered bake. If it’s browning too quickly, reduce oven temperature by 25 degrees.

Q: Can I use this recipe for other holidays?
A: Definitely! This glazed ham works beautifully for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any special occasion.

9. Conclusion

This glazed ham recipe is more than just a meal – it’s a centerpiece that creates lasting holiday memories. The combination of sweet, sticky glaze and tender, flavorful meat is guaranteed to impress your guests and have them coming back for seconds. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of our variations, you’re creating a dish that celebrates tradition while delighting modern palates. From our kitchen to yours, we wish you a joyful Easter filled with good food and great company. Happy cooking! 🎉🍽️

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