Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 165°C (325°F). Position the oven rack in the lower third of the oven to allow even heat circulation around the ham.
Step 2: Prepare the Ham
Remove the ham from its packaging and place it cut-side down in a large roasting pan. Pour the water or apple juice into the bottom of the pan to keep the ham moist during baking.
Step 3: Cover and Warm
Tightly cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil. Place the ham in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes per pound (450 g), allowing it to warm gently without drying out.
Step 4: Make the Honey Glaze
While the ham heats, combine the honey, butter, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, cloves, paprika, and vanilla extract in a saucepan. Heat over medium-low, stirring frequently, until the butter melts and the glaze becomes smooth and fragrant.
Step 5: Glaze the Ham
About 30 minutes before the ham is finished, remove it from the oven and carefully uncover. Spoon or brush half of the warm honey glaze generously over the ham, letting it drip into the slices.
Step 6: Caramelize
Return the ham to the oven uncovered. Increase the oven temperature to 220°C (425°F) and bake for 10–15 minutes, until the glaze becomes sticky and lightly caramelized.
Step 7: Final Glaze
Remove the ham again and brush with the remaining glaze. Return to the oven for another 5–10 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10–15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice tender and juicy.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2½–3 hours (depending on size)
Total Time: About 3 hours
Servings: 12–16
Difficulty Level: Easy
Variations & Substitutions
• Citrus Twist: Add 2 tablespoons (30 ml) orange or pineapple juice to the glaze for a brighter flavor.
• Spiced Version: Increase cinnamon and cloves slightly and add a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, holiday-style glaze.
• Sugar-Free Option: Replace honey and brown sugar with sugar-free alternatives suitable for baking.
• Maple Honey Ham: Substitute half the honey with pure maple syrup for deeper sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
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