When it comes to creating the perfect centerpiece for your holiday meal, Honey-Orange Glazed Ham is an excellent choice. The combination of sweet honey and citrusy orange glaze creates a rich, flavorful coating that complements the natural savory taste of ham. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a special family gathering, this dish is sure to impress your guests with its beautiful presentation and mouthwatering taste.
What Makes Honey-Orange Glazed Ham Special?
Honey-Orange Glazed Ham stands out for its perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser at any festive gathering. The combination of rich, golden honey and fresh, zesty orange creates a glaze that beautifully complements the savory taste of ham. As the ham roasts, the glaze caramelizes, forming a shiny, crispy coating that locks in moisture and infuses each bite with a burst of flavor.
The balance between sweetness and acidity is what truly sets this dish apart. The honey provides natural sweetness without being overpowering, while the orange juice and zest add a citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness of the meat. This harmonious contrast makes each bite both satisfying and refreshing.
Key Ingredients for Honey-Orange Glazed Ham
To create the perfect honey-orange glaze, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need for both the glaze and the ham itself:
- Ham: Choose between bone-in or boneless ham, and decide whether you want a spiral-cut variety for easy carving.
- Honey: The quality of honey is essential. Opt for local honey or a mild variety, such as clover honey, for a pure, natural sweetness.
- Orange: Fresh oranges bring the most vibrant flavor, but if fresh isn’t available, you can substitute with 100% orange juice. Don’t forget the zest for an extra citrus punch!
- Brown Sugar: Adds richness and a slight molasses flavor that balances the acidity of the orange juice.
- Dijon Mustard: A touch of Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang to the glaze, rounding out the sweetness.
- Spices: Commonly used spices include cinnamon, cloves, and ginger, which add warmth and depth to the glaze.
- Optional: For a smoky or spicy twist, you can experiment with bourbon, chili flakes, or herbs like rosemary and thyme.
How to Make Honey-Orange Glazed Ham
Making Honey-Orange Glazed Ham is simple and rewarding. The glaze combines the sweet richness of honey with the bright, citrusy zing of orange, creating a perfect balance of flavors that enhances the ham. Follow these easy steps to make your own delicious glazed ham:
Ingredients:
- 1 ham (about 8-10 pounds, spiral-cut or bone-in)
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (or store-bought, 100% orange juice)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves (optional)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Instructions:
Prepare the Ham:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
If you’re using a spiral-cut ham, there’s no need to score it, as it’s already pre-cut. For a bone-in or boneless ham, score the surface in a diamond pattern with a sharp knife to allow the glaze to soak in.
Make the Glaze:
In a small saucepan, combine the honey, orange juice, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and cloves.
Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves. Let it cook for about 5-10 minutes until the glaze slightly thickens.
For a thicker glaze, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water and whisk it into the simmering glaze. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
Stir in the orange zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Roast the Ham:
Place the ham on a roasting rack in a shallow roasting pan. Brush a generous layer of the glaze over the ham, making sure to cover all exposed areas.
Tent the ham loosely with foil to prevent it from drying out and roast for about 15-20 minutes per pound. For an 8-pound ham, this would take roughly 2-2.5 hours.
Every 30 minutes, brush the ham with more glaze to build up a flavorful, sticky coating.
Final Glaze and Caramelization:
In the final 30 minutes of roasting, remove the foil and brush the ham with a final layer of glaze to help it caramelize and form a golden, crispy exterior. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
Check for Doneness:
Use a meat thermometer to check the ham’s internal temperature. The ham should reach 145°F (63°C) before removing it from the oven.
Once done, let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Serve:
Carve the ham into thin slices and serve it with the remaining glaze drizzled over the top.
Tips for Success:
- Basting: Baste frequently for a thicker, more flavorful glaze.
- Glaze Variations: For added depth, you can mix in a splash of bourbon or apple cider vinegar to balance the sweetness with a hint of smokiness or acidity.
- Leftovers: Leftover glazed ham can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for later use.
Enjoy your Honey-Orange Glazed Ham as the perfect centerpiece for any celebration!
Variations on Honey-Orange Glazed Ham
While the classic honey-orange glaze is delicious, there are several ways to customize it to suit your tastes. Here are a few variations:
- Spicy Honey-Orange Glaze: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce to your glaze for a spicy kick that balances the sweetness.
- Bourbon-Infused Glaze: For a smoky, rich flavor, add a tablespoon of bourbon to the glaze. The alcohol will cook off, leaving behind a deep, complex taste.
- Herb-Infused Glaze: Try adding fresh rosemary or thyme to the glaze for a savory twist that complements the sweetness.
- Keto-Friendly: Use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit to reduce the carbohydrate content while still maintaining a sweet glaze.
Leftovers and Storage Tips
Honey-Orange Glazed Ham makes great leftovers! Here are some storage tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: If you have more leftovers than you can use, you can freeze slices of ham for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat leftover ham gently in the oven or microwave, basting with a bit of the leftover glaze to keep the meat moist.
Leftover ham can also be used in sandwiches, soups, or casseroles, giving you a variety of ways to enjoy the dish all week long!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long should I cook my Honey-Orange Glazed Ham?
Roast your ham at 325°F (165°C) for 15-20 minutes per pound. For example, an 8-pound ham will take about 2-2.5 hours to cook. Be sure to baste the ham with the glaze every 30 minutes for the best flavor and caramelization.
Can I use store-bought orange juice instead of fresh oranges?
Yes, you can use store-bought 100% orange juice as a substitute for fresh oranges. However, fresh oranges will provide a more vibrant, natural flavor, and don’t forget to add the orange zest for extra citrusy zing.
How can I thicken the glaze?
If your glaze is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it for a few extra minutes or by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water and whisking it into the glaze. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens.
What type of ham is best for Honey-Orange Glazed Ham?
Spiral-cut hams are the easiest to work with, as they come pre-sliced, making carving simpler. However, both bone-in and boneless hams work wonderfully with the glaze. The key is to choose a ham that is of good quality and will hold up to roasting.
Can I prepare the ham in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the glaze and score the ham the day before. Simply store the glaze in the fridge and apply it when you’re ready to cook. You can even roast the ham in advance and reheat it on the day of serving, basting it with fresh glaze just before serving.
Is it okay to freeze leftover glazed ham?
Absolutely! Leftover ham can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to slice the ham before freezing, and reheat it gently in the oven to avoid drying it out.
Final Thoughts
Honey-Orange Glazed Ham is the perfect dish to elevate any meal, whether it’s for a holiday feast, family gathering, or special occasion. The sweetness of honey paired with the tang of orange juice creates a mouthwatering glaze that perfectly complements the savory richness of the ham. Not only is it visually stunning with its glossy, caramelized finish, but it’s also full of flavor and sure to impress your guests.
The best part? This dish is versatile—you can easily customize the glaze with additional spices or ingredients, such as bourbon, chili flakes, or herbs, to suit your personal taste. And if you have leftovers, they’re just as delicious the next day in sandwiches or casseroles.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, making Honey-Orange Glazed Ham is an enjoyable and rewarding experience. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you’ll be able to create a memorable, flavorful centerpiece that everyone will love.
So, next time you’re planning a meal for a special occasion, don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—you’ll be glad you did!
