There’s something magical about a golden, honey-glazed ham emerging from the oven, caramelized edges, juicy slices, and a sweet aroma that instantly says home. Whether you’re planning an Easter feast, a cozy holiday gathering, or a special Sunday dinner, this honey-glazed ham recipe is the kind of showstopper that will have everyone coming back for seconds (and asking for your recipe).
In this post, we'll walk you through every step, from choosing the right ham to crafting the perfect glaze with high-quality single-source honey. I’ll even include helpful tips, creative variations, and delicious ideas for leftovers. Let’s get started on this unforgettable centerpiece dish.
Why You’ll Love This Honey-Glazed Ham
You’ll love this honey-glazed ham because it strikes the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and just a hint of spice. The honey and brown sugar caramelize beautifully in the oven, creating a glossy glaze that clings to every slice while sealing in moisture and flavor.
Whether it’s the star of your Easter table or a comforting Sunday dinner, this ham brings elegance without the stress, it’s incredibly simple to prepare, yet always looks and tastes like something special. The aroma alone, warm spices mingling with sweet honey and roasted ham, s enough to make mouths water before it even hits the table.
Another reason this ham stands out is its versatility. It’s just as impressive served hot with classic sides as it is sliced cold for sandwiches the next day. Plus, it reheats beautifully and yields plenty of leftovers for soups, scrambles, or hearty sliders.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or planning meals for the week, this honey-glazed ham offers flavor, ease, and comfort in every bite. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself returning to again and again, no matter the season.
How To Choose The Right Ham
When choosing the right ham, start by deciding between bone-in and boneless. Bone-in hams offer more flavor and moisture, making them perfect for a juicy, impressive main course. They also tend to have a beautiful presentation and the bone can be saved for soups later. Boneless hams are easier to slice and serve, which is great for more casual meals or when feeding a larger group.
Next, check if the ham is fully cooked or raw. Most store-bought hams are labeled “fully cooked” or “ready to eat,” which means you’re just reheating and glazing. If you're buying a spiral-sliced ham, it’s usually pre-cooked and cut for easy serving, ideal for this honey-glazed recipe. Look for a ham that’s around 8 to 10 pounds to serve 10 to 15 people comfortably.
How To Choose The Right Honey
Choosing the right honey is key to creating a glaze that’s rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced. For the best results, opt for raw or minimally processed honey that retains its natural depth and floral notes.
Clover honey is a classic choice for its mild sweetness, but if you want a deeper, more complex flavor, try wildflower varieties. Avoid using overly processed or flavored honeys, as they can overwhelm the dish or taste too artificial once heated.
For a truly exceptional glaze, consider using single-source honey from Ames Farm. Their raw, handcrafted honeys come from specific floral sources and regions, giving each jar a unique taste profile. Whether you choose their Basswood, Sweet Clover, or Buckwheat honey, you’ll be adding layers of flavor that elevate your ham from good to unforgettable. Using a quality honey like Ames Farm’s also ensures your glaze stays smooth, golden, and full of natural character.
Ingredients You Need For Honey-Glazed Ham
This recipe keeps things simple but flavorful, using a handful of pantry staples to create a rich, glossy glaze that complements the savory ham perfectly. Here's everything you'll need:
For the Ham:
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1 (8–10 lb) bone-in spiral-sliced ham: Fully cooked and ready to heat
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Whole cloves (optional): For studding and extra aroma
For the Honey Glaze:
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1 cup honey: Use a rich, floral honey like clover, wildflower, or Ames Farm’s single-source honey
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½ cup light brown sugar: Adds depth and enhances caramelization
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¼ cup Dijon mustard: Brings just the right tang
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2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Helps balance the sweetness
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter: For richness and shine
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Warm and comforting
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½ teaspoon ground cloves: Earthy and aromatic
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¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle, nutty warmth
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1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional): To thicken the glaze if desired
These ingredients come together to form a glaze that’s sweet, spiced, and perfectly sticky, ideal for basting over a tender, juicy ham.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making a honey-glazed ham might look fancy, but it’s actually very easy. With just a few steps, you’ll have a beautifully browned, flavor-packed centerpiece ready to impress your guests.
Step 1: Prep the Ham
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Unwrap your fully cooked spiral ham and discard any packaging materials, including the plastic disc often covering the bone. Place the ham cut-side down in a large roasting pan lined with foil for easy cleanup. If you want to add a traditional touch, you can stud the ham with whole cloves by inserting them at regular intervals across the surface.
Step 2: Make the Glaze
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup honey, ½ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons butter, and your spices: 1 tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp ground cloves, and ¼ tsp nutmeg. Stir continuously until the mixture is melted and smooth. If you’d like a thicker glaze, dissolve 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of water and whisk it in, allowing the glaze to simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens.
Step 3: Bake the Ham
Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake for about 1 hour. This gives the ham time to warm through without drying out. After the first hour, remove the foil and begin glazing.
Step 4: Glaze & Roast
Brush a generous layer of the honey glaze all over the ham, making sure it gets into the spiral slices. Return the ham to the oven uncovered and continue baking for another 30–45 minutes, glazing every 10–15 minutes to build that irresistible sticky coating. Watch as the glaze starts to caramelize and the edges turn golden brown.
Step 5: Broil for a Crispy Finish (Optional)
For a bit of extra caramelization, turn your oven to broil for the last 2–3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it—sugar burns fast! This step adds a beautiful finish and enhances the sweet-savory flavor.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and moist. Slice, serve with any extra glaze from the pan, and enjoy!
What to Serve with Honey-Glazed Ham
Honey-glazed ham is rich, savory, and just sweet enough, making it the perfect match for a variety of side dishes. Whether you're planning a holiday feast or a special Sunday dinner, pairing your ham with the right sides will round out the meal and impress your guests. Aim for a mix of flavors and textures: creamy, crunchy, fresh, and warm all have a place at the table.
Here are some classic and creative side dish ideas to serve with your honey-glazed ham:
Comforting Sides
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Scalloped potatoes: Creamy, cheesy layers that pair beautifully with ham’s sweetness
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Mashed sweet potatoes: A smooth, earthy side that enhances the honey glaze
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Macaroni and cheese: A kid-friendly favorite with extra indulgence
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Cornbread stuffing: Slightly sweet and perfect with savory meats
Vegetables
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Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze: Adds balance and crunch
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Green beans: A light, buttery option
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Glazed carrots: A sweet veggie side that complements the glaze
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Asparagus with lemon and parmesan: Bright and elegant
Breads and Extras
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Rolls: Buttery, fluffy rolls perfect for soaking up extra glaze
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Honey cornbread: A sweet-savory match for ham
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Cranberry sauce: Adds a tart contrast to the sweetness
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Deviled eggs: Classic and festive for any special occasion
Mix and match to create a menu that fits the season and your guests. Whether you go all out or keep it simple, these sides will make your honey-glazed ham the centerpiece of a truly satisfying meal.
Delicious Leftover Honey-Glazed Ham Ideas
One of the best parts about making a honey-glazed ham, aside from the amazing flavor, is all the delicious leftovers. This ham is just as tasty the next day and can be transformed into a variety of easy, mouthwatering meals. Whether you’re feeding your family throughout the week or planning brunch for a crowd, these ideas will help you get the most out of every slice.
Here are some favorite ways to repurpose leftover honey-glazed ham:
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Ham and Cheese Sliders: Layer ham and Swiss cheese on Hawaiian rolls, brush with garlic butter, and bake until warm and melty. Perfect for lunch, game day, or a quick dinner.
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Ham Fried Rice: A fast and flavorful way to use up ham and any leftover veggies. Just toss chopped ham into fried rice with eggs, green onions, and soy sauce.
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Ham and Potato Soup: Simmer diced ham with potatoes, onions, carrots, and cream for a comforting, hearty soup.
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Breakfast Scramble: Chop ham and add it to scrambled eggs with spinach, peppers, or cheese for a protein-packed breakfast.
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Ham and Mac & Cheese Bake: Stir chopped ham into macaroni and cheese, top with breadcrumbs, and bake for a bubbly, golden casserole.
Honey-Glazed Ham Variations
Looking to switch things up? There are plenty of easy ways to customize your honey-glazed ham to suit different tastes and occasions. For a citrusy twist, try adding fresh orange juice and zest to the glaze, it brings brightness and balances the sweetness beautifully. If you love a smoky, bold flavor, mix in a splash of bourbon or whiskey with the honey and brown sugar for a deeper, more complex glaze.
Prefer a little heat with your sweet? Stir in some red pepper flakes, hot honey, or a dash of hot sauce to give your glaze a subtle kick. You can also swap out Dijon mustard for spicy brown mustard or stone-ground mustard for extra tang. Each variation adds a unique flavor profile, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own!
Tips For Success
Want your honey-glazed ham to come out perfectly every time? These simple tips will help you avoid common mistakes and make sure your ham is tender, flavorful, and beautifully glazed.
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Let the ham come to room temperature before baking, about 30–60 minutes. This helps it cook more evenly throughout.
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Use a roasting pan with a rack if you have one. It allows the heat to circulate more evenly and prevents the bottom from getting soggy.
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Don’t skip the foil in the first hour. It traps moisture so the ham stays juicy while it heats through.
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Glaze often for maximum flavor. Applying the glaze in layers during the last 30–45 minutes helps build a glossy, caramelized crust.
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Watch the broiler closely. A few minutes is all it takes to crisp up the edges—but sugar can burn fast, so keep an eye on it!
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Use a meat thermometer. Your ham is ready when the internal temperature reaches 135–140°F (for pre-cooked hams).
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Let it rest after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping every slice tender and moist.
Follow these tips, and your honey-glazed ham will be a memorable main dish that’s just as good as (or better than!) anything from the deli counter.
Final Thoughts About Honey-Glazed Ham
A honey-glazed ham is more than just a meal, it’s a tradition, a centerpiece, and a delicious way to bring people together. With its golden, sticky-sweet glaze and tender, savory slices, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for holidays, family dinners, or any special occasion.
Whether you follow it step-by-step or try one of the tasty variations, you’ll end up with a dish that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. Don’t forget to savor the leftover, they’re just as irresistible the next day!
To truly elevate your glaze, consider using honey from Ames Farm. Their single-source, raw honeys are crafted with care and come in a variety of unique floral profiles that bring natural depth and complexity to your cooking. Whether you choose Basswood, Sweet Clover, or another variety, you’ll taste the difference real, high-quality honey makes. Visit Ames Farm to find the perfect jar for your next ham - and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions About Honey-Glazed Ham
1. How much ham should I plan per person?
Plan on about ½ to ¾ pound per person for a bone-in ham, especially if you want leftovers. For boneless ham, you can go with around ⅓ to ½ pound per person.
2. Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the glaze up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before brushing it onto the ham.
3. What’s the best way to keep ham moist while baking?
Cover it loosely with foil for the first hour of baking to lock in moisture. Then, glaze and bake uncovered for caramelization during the final 30–45 minutes.
4. Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?
Absolutely. Maple syrup offers a slightly different flavor profile, but it still creates a delicious glaze.
5. What’s the purpose of using cloves in the ham?
Cloves add a warm, aromatic spice that complements the sweetness of the glaze. Studding the ham with whole cloves also gives it a classic, elegant look.
6. How do I store and reheat leftover ham?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 325°F, covered with foil, until warmed through. You can also reheat slices gently in a skillet with a bit of glaze or broth.
