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As the holiday season approaches, my mind drifts to the tantalizing aroma of a perfectly glazed ham wafting through the air. The anticipation of gathering around the table, filled with loved ones, is an experience like no other. This Thanksgiving Honey Glazed Ham is my go-to recipe, transforming a simple spiral-sliced ham into a festive centerpiece that delights everyone. With its luscious, caramelized glaze, each tender slice holds a world of flavor, bringing warmth and comfort reminiscent of family traditions.

What I love most about this dish is how effortlessly it comes together, allowing me to focus on what really matters—making memories with my nearest and dearest. No need to rush around the kitchen; this slow-cooked marvel practically takes care of itself. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook eager to impress, this recipe is sure to elevate your holiday feast and leave your guests talking about it long after the last crumb has been enjoyed. So, let’s dive in and explore how to create this deliciously sweet ham that will make your Thanksgiving unforgettable!

Why love this Thanksgiving Honey Glazed Ham?

Simplicity at its best: You’ll only need a handful of ingredients to create this memorable dish that shines at any gathering.
Taste explosion: The delightful blend of honey, brown sugar, and spices creates a luscious glaze that elevates the natural flavors of the ham.
Effortless cooking: Slow-cooked to perfection, this recipe allows you to spend quality time with friends and family while your ham bakes.
Versatile serving options: Perfect for the holiday table, it also makes for fabulous leftovers in sandwiches or as a savory addition to breakfast dishes.
Crowd-pleaser: This dish is sure to impress, making it ideal for holiday celebrations and festive gatherings. You will be the star of Thanksgiving with this showstopper on your table!

Thanksgiving Honey Glazed Ham Ingredients

For the Ham
• Spiral-Sliced Ham – This is the star of the show, offering easy serving and satisfying protein for your feast.

For the Glaze
• Honey – Provides sweetness and stickiness for that mouthwatering crust; maple syrup can be a great alternative for a unique flavor!
• Brown Sugar – Adds a lovely depth and helps caramelize the glaze; coconut sugar is a fantastic refined sugar substitute.
• Dijon Mustard – Introduces a tangy balance to the sweetness; yellow mustard works well if that’s what you have on hand.
• Unsalted Butter – Contributes richness to the glaze; for a dairy-free option, olive or coconut oil can be used.
• Ground Cloves – This spice enhances the overall flavor profile; feel free to use allspice for a gentler touch.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Offers acidity to balance the sweetness; you can swap it for white vinegar or lemon juice in a pinch.
• Black Pepper – Adds a hint of warmth; adjust according to your taste preference for a mild or spicy kick.

How to Make Thanksgiving Honey Glazed Ham

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This ensures even cooking for your ham, setting the stage for a perfectly glazed centerpiece.
Position the spiral-sliced ham flat side down in a large roasting pan lined with foil. This will help with easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
Combine honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, unsalted butter, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, and black pepper in a saucepan. Heat gently until smooth; this aroma will start to fill your kitchen!
Brush half of the lovely glaze over the ham, making sure to get it in between the slices. Cover the ham with foil to lock in moisture.
Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, basting every 30 minutes with pan juices to keep it juicy and flavorful. Your patience will be rewarded!
Uncover the ham, slather on the rest of the glaze, and bake uncovered for an additional 30-45 minutes. You’re looking for a beautiful caramelization on top!
Rest the ham for 20 minutes before slicing and serving. This step is essential for keeping those delicious juices locked in each slice.

Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for a festive touch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Honey Glazed Ham

Fridge: Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to keep it fresh and flavorful.

Freezer: If you need to store it longer, slice the ham and place it in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 325°F (163°C), covered in foil, until warmed through. This ensures your Thanksgiving Honey Glazed Ham remains moist and tender.

Leftover Ideas: Use leftover ham for scrumptious late-night sandwiches or add it to breakfast casseroles for a delightful twist.

Thanksgiving Honey Glazed Ham Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this delicious centerpiece! Let your creativity shine and make it your own.

Citrus Twist: Substitute honey with orange marmalade for a bright, zesty flavor that adds a refreshing kick.
Tropical Addition: Add a splash of pineapple juice to the glaze for a delightful tropical sweetness that complements the ham beautifully.
Maple Magic: Swap honey for pure maple syrup to give the glaze a rich, earthy sweetness that pairs wonderfully with pork.
Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the glaze for a subtle heat that balances the sweetness.
Nutty Crunch: Top the caramelized ham with chopped pecans or walnuts during the last few minutes of baking. This adds a crunchy texture and rich nutty flavor.
Bourbon Boost: For an adult twist, mix in a tablespoon of bourbon to the glaze for a warm depth of flavor that will impress your guests.
Smoky Flavor: Introduce a hint of smoked paprika into the glaze for a delightful smoky essence that adds another dimension to your Thanksgiving Honey Glazed Ham.
Herbaceous Touch: Stir in finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the glaze; this adds freshness and a beautiful aroma, enhancing the overall flavor experience.

Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Honey Glazed Ham

Scoring the Ham: Score the fat in a diamond pattern before adding the glaze. This allows better absorption of the Thanksgiving Honey Glazed Ham, enhancing flavors.
Basting Matters: Regularly baste your ham every 30 minutes during baking. This keeps it moist and flavorful, ensuring every bite remains succulent.
Resting is Key: Allow your ham to rest for 20 minutes after cooking. This crucial step helps retain the juices, making each slice rich and tender.
Perfect Glaze Finish: For an extra caramelized finish, broil the ham for a minute or two at the end. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Choose the Right Pan: Ensure your roasting pan is large enough to hold the ham comfortably. An overcrowded pan can lead to uneven cooking and less effective basting.

Make Ahead Options

These Thanksgiving Honey Glazed Ham preparations are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the glaze (honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and spices) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine all the glaze ingredients in a saucepan, allow it to cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. As for the ham, you can score the surface and apply half of the glaze, covering it with foil, and refrigerate it up to 3 days before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, proceed with the baking instructions as directed—just remember to baste and glaze halfway through and enjoy a stress-free feast with just as delicious results!

What to Serve with Thanksgiving Honey Glazed Ham?

Creating a memorable Thanksgiving feast revolves around ensuring that every dish complements your showstopper ham.

Fluffy Mashed Potatoes: This creamy classic wraps your taste buds in comfort, offering a savory balance to the sweet glaze of the ham.
Green Bean Casserole: A holiday staple packed with crunchy fried onions, providing a delightful contrast in texture that pairs well with the ham’s softness.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized to perfection, the slight bitterness of these greens cuts through the sweetness of the glaze, creating a harmonious plate.
Sweet Potato Casserole: Topped with marshmallows or pecans, this dish adds a sweet note, making your Thanksgiving table a delightful mix of flavors.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of homemade cranberry sauce brightens each bite, enhancing the honeyed goodness of the ham with refreshing acidity.
Savory Stuffing: A seasoned stuffing filled with herbs and savory vegetables can soak up the fantastic drippings from the ham, amplifying the flavors.
Buttery Cornbread: Soft and sweet, this cornbread adds warmth and comfort to your meal, balancing the richness of the ham and highlighting its festive flair.
Mulled Cider: A warm and spiced drink that beautifully echoes the holiday spirit, it’s a comforting choice to sip alongside your feast.
Pumpkin Pie: End on a sweet note with a slice of classic pumpkin pie, blending spices that echo the flavors of Thanksgiving and leaving everyone satisfied.

Thanksgiving Honey Glazed Ham Recipe FAQs

What type of ham is best for this recipe?
You’ll want to use a spiral-sliced ham for this Thanksgiving Honey Glazed Ham. It’s convenient to serve and ensures a juicy, flavorful dish. Look for one that has a good marbling of fat, which will help keep the ham moist during cooking.

How should I store leftovers?
After your feast, wrap leftover ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you think you won’t finish it within that time, I recommend slicing it and placing it in an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag to freeze for up to 2 months.

Can I freeze the ham, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze your Thanksgiving Honey Glazed Ham, slice it into portions and layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container or zip-top bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing. Label and date it, so you can enjoy it within the recommended 2-month period. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What can I do if my glaze isn’t thickening?
If your glaze seems too thin after combining the ingredients, no worries! You can thicken it by simmering it on low heat for a few extra minutes until it coats the back of a spoon. Just remember to stir constantly to prevent burning! If you ever find the glaze too thick, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or water to loosen it up.

How can I adjust this recipe for dietary restrictions?
There are substitutes available to accommodate various dietary needs! For a dairy-free version, use olive oil or coconut oil instead of unsalted butter. If you need a sugar alternative, consider using coconut sugar instead of brown sugar. You could also swap out honey for maple syrup for a different flavor profile if you’re looking for a vegan option.

Can pets eat ham leftovers?
While a small amount of plain, cooked ham is generally safe for dogs, be cautious! Avoid giving your pets ham that includes seasonings, like the glaze in this recipe, as ingredients like onion and garlic can be harmful to them. Always check with your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your pet’s diet!