Maple Glazed Ham: Irresistibly Sweet & Savory Delight

Crafting a maple glazed ham is one of my cherished kitchen rituals. Every time I prepare it, I am reminded of the joyful gatherings around a table filled with laughter and delicious aromas. The sweet, warm scent of maple syrup mingling with spices like ginger and cloves evokes memories of celebrations and cherished moments with family and friends.

In my home, maple glazed ham has become synonymous with comfort and togetherness. It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings people together. The rich glaze envelops the ham, creating a symphony of flavors that delight the senses and warm the heart. This recipe has become a staple, a beloved tradition that we look forward to sharing with those we care about.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the transformation of humble ingredients into something extraordinary. With a bit of patience and love, you can create a maple glazed ham that’s not only a centerpiece but a conversation starter at any gathering. Let’s dive into the world of flavors and techniques that make this dish a standout.

Maple Glazed Ham

---

• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Discover how to make a delicious maple glazed ham with this easy recipe. Perfect for any special occasion or holiday meal. Try it today!

---

Ingredients

• Maple syrup, 1 cup (240 ml)
• Beef ham, 4 pounds (1.8 kg)
• Brown sugar, 1/2 cup (100 g)
• Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons (30 ml)
• Ground ginger, 1 teaspoon (2 g)
• Ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon (1 g)
• Ground cloves, 1/4 teaspoon (0.5 g)
• Orange juice, 1/4 cup (60 ml)
• Salt, 1/2 teaspoon (3 g)
• Black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon (0.5 g)

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Place the ham in a roasting pan.
3. In a medium bowl, combine maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, orange juice, salt, and black pepper.
4. Stir the mixture until smooth and well combined.
5. Pour half of the glaze over the ham, ensuring it is evenly covered.
6. Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil.
7. Bake the ham in the preheated oven for 1.5 hours.
8. Remove the foil and pour the remaining glaze over the ham.
9. Increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
10. Continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, basting occasionally.
11. Check that the internal temperature of the ham reaches 140°F (60°C).
12. Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes.
13. Slice the ham and serve warm.

Notes

• For a sweeter glaze, increase the brown sugar amount in the mixture.
• Experiment by adding a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy flavor.
• Enhance the presentation by garnishing the sliced ham with orange slices and fresh herbs.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: N/A

Nutrition

• Calories: N/A
• Fat: N/A
• Protein: N/A

Keywords: 1. Maple glaze, 2. Baked ham, 3. Sweet and savory, 4. Holiday centerpiece, 5. Family favorite

Creating the Perfect Maple Glazed Ham

Fundamentals

To achieve the perfect maple glazed ham, understanding the basics is crucial. The marriage of sweet maple syrup with spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves forms the backbone of this delightful dish. These ingredients work together to enhance the natural richness of the beef ham, creating a depth of flavor that is both comforting and intriguing.

Maple syrup, the star of this recipe, brings a natural sweetness that complements the savory notes of the beef ham. It’s important to use a high-quality maple syrup to ensure the best results. The addition of brown sugar adds a caramel-like depth, while Dijon mustard introduces a subtle tang that balances the sweetness. A touch of orange juice brightens the glaze, bringing a hint of citrus that elevates the overall flavor profile.

Preparation/setup

Before you begin, gather all your ingredients and preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This step ensures everything is ready when you need it, making the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. Place the beef ham in a roasting pan, ensuring it fits comfortably to allow even cooking.

In a medium bowl, combine the maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, orange juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This glaze will serve as the flavorful coating that transforms the ham into a show-stopping centerpiece.

Technique for a Flavorful Maple Glazed Ham

Technique

Pour half of the prepared glaze over the ham, ensuring it is evenly coated. This initial glazing allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, infusing it with sweetness and spice. Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning while it bakes. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 1.5 hours, letting the heat work its magic.

After the initial baking period, remove the foil and pour the remaining glaze over the ham. This final glazing step ensures a glossy, flavorful finish. Increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes. Basting occasionally helps maintain moisture and enhances the glaze.

Tips/tricks

To achieve the perfect balance of flavor and texture, monitor the ham closely during the final baking stage. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) to guarantee it’s fully cooked. Letting the ham rest for 10 minutes after removing it from the oven allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender, juicy slice.

For additional inspiration, explore how sweet glazes can transform other meats with these Maple Glazed Venison Sausages or try the Sweet Maple Glazed Venison Jerky Bites.

Perfecting Your Maple Glazed Ham

Perfecting results

Achieving the ideal maple glaze involves the right balance of flavors and careful attention to cooking times. The key is to allow the glaze to caramelize without burning. Keeping a close eye during the final minutes of baking ensures you achieve a luscious, glossy finish that’s both visually appealing and delicious.

Experimenting with the spice levels can tailor the dish to your taste preferences. Adding more ginger for a spicier kick or increasing the orange juice for a citrusy twist can personalize the dish. The beauty of cooking lies in the ability to adapt recipes to your liking, creating a dish that speaks to your palate.

Troubleshooting/variations

If the glaze begins to darken too quickly, tent the ham with foil to prevent burning while allowing it to continue cooking. If you prefer a thicker glaze, simmer the remaining glaze on the stovetop to reduce it further before applying it to the ham.

For those seeking alternative cooking methods, explore how sweet glazes can elevate dishes like Maple Glazed Sweet Potatoes or try a different take with Sous Vide Pomegranate Glazed Chicken Legs.

Serving and Storing Your Maple Glazed Ham

Serving/presentation

Once the ham has rested, slice it into even portions and arrange it on a serving platter. The glossy glaze and aromatic spices make this dish an eye-catching centerpiece perfect for any occasion. The warm, inviting aroma will draw guests to the table, eager to savor each bite.

Pair the maple glazed ham with sides that complement its sweet and savory profile. Consider serving it alongside Pickle Butter Biscuits for a delightful contrast. The biscuits provide a buttery, tangy counterpoint to the rich, sweet ham, making every bite a harmonious blend of flavors.

Pairings/storage

For optimal flavor, enjoy the maple glazed ham fresh from the oven. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The ham can be reheated in the oven at a low temperature to preserve its moisture and flavor. It also makes a fantastic addition to sandwiches, adding a touch of gourmet to your lunch.

For those looking to extend the maple-flavored experience, consider trying these Brown Sugar Maple Glazed Deer Jerky or create a sweet treat with a twist with our Dunkin Donuts Glazed Donuts Recipe Copycat.

Conclusion

Creating a maple glazed ham is a rewarding culinary adventure that combines simple ingredients to produce a dish that’s both delicious and memorable. The harmony of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors makes it a versatile centerpiece for any meal, from festive gatherings to casual family dinners.

This dish exemplifies the joy of home cooking, transforming a classic favorite into something truly special with minimal effort. The process is straightforward, and the results are consistently impressive, making it a staple in any home cook’s repertoire.

With the right techniques, a bit of creativity, and a love for cooking, you can master the art of maple glazed ham. It’s a dish that brings people together, creating lasting memories and delightful moments around the table.

FAQs – Maple Glazed Ham