Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham

Spiral Ham glazed with brown sugar and honey is the perfect dish for holidays like Thanksgiving, Easter, or Christmas. This Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it a standout choice for your festive gatherings. The sweet glaze pairs wonderfully with the savory ham, creating a delightful contrast that everyone will love.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Ham
• For the Glaze
• Spices
• How to Make Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Honey Mixture
• Step 3: Prepare the Ham for Baking
• Step 4: Bake Covered
• Step 5: Create the Glaze
• Step 6: Simmer Until Thickened
• Step 7: Apply Glaze to Ham
• Step 8: Final Bake Uncovered
• How to Serve Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham
• On a Festive Platter
• With Fresh Bread Rolls
• Paired with Seasonal Vegetables
• As Part of a Holiday Brunch
• Accompanied by Sauces and Spreads
• How to Perfect Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham
• Best Side Dishes for Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham
• Reheating Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How long does it take to cook a Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham?
• Can I prepare Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham ahead of time?
• What should I serve with Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham?
• How do I cut a spiral ham correctly?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With simple steps, you’ll have a stunning centerpiece without stress.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of brown sugar and honey creates a rich, caramelized flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for holidays or any special occasion, this ham fits well on any dining table.
• Time-Saver: Cooking this spiral ham takes just 90 minutes, allowing you to focus on other dishes or enjoy time with family.
• Feeding a Crowd: Serves 12-15 people, making it ideal for large gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you need to prepare.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Roasting pan
• Aluminum foil
• Small pot
• Mixing bowl
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Roasting pan: Ensures even cooking and provides space for the glaze to collect.
• Aluminum foil: Helps retain moisture during the first part of cooking for tender meat.
• Basting brush: Essential for evenly applying the glaze over the ham for maximum flavor.

Ingredients

For the Ham

• 8-10 pound Spiral Ham

For the Glaze

• ⅓ cup Honey
• 1 cup Pineapple juice (divided)
• ½ cup Brown sugar (light brown)
• ½ cup Granulated sugar (white sugar)

Spices

• ½ teaspoon Garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon Paprika
• ½ teaspoon Ground clove
• ½ teaspoon Allspice
• ¼ teaspoon Seasoned salt

How to Make Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9 x 13 deep baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Honey Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together the honey and half of the pineapple juice until thoroughly combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Ham for Baking

Place your spiral ham into your baking dish. Pour the honey mixture over the ham, ensuring it seeps into each slice.

Step 4: Bake Covered

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.

Step 5: Create the Glaze

After removing the ham from the oven, carefully pour any juices from the baking dish into a small pot on medium heat. Add the remaining pineapple juice along with brown sugar, white sugar, garlic powder, paprika, ground clove, allspice, and seasoned salt.

Step 6: Simmer Until Thickened

Stir everything together until combined. Let it simmer over medium-low heat for about 15-20 minutes until it begins to thicken.

Step 7: Apply Glaze to Ham

Brush or spoon this delicious glaze mixture all over your ham.

Step 8: Final Bake Uncovered

Return the ham to the oven and cook uncovered for an additional 30 minutes. Enjoy your beautifully glazed spiral ham!

How to Serve Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham

Serving Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham is not just about the main dish; it’s about creating a delightful experience for your guests. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions that will elevate your meal.

On a Festive Platter

• Arrange slices of ham on a large platter, garnished with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley for color.
• Add some seasonal fruits such as oranges and pomegranates to enhance the visual appeal.

With Fresh Bread Rolls

• Serve warm, buttery bread rolls alongside the ham for a comforting touch.
• Consider offering a selection of whole grain and traditional white rolls to cater to all preferences.

Paired with Seasonal Vegetables

• Offer roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots to complement the sweetness of the glaze.
• A fresh garden salad can also balance the richness of the ham.

As Part of a Holiday Brunch

• Slice leftover ham for a delicious brunch option, served with eggs and pancakes.
• Include sides like fruit salad and yogurt to create a well-rounded meal.

Accompanied by Sauces and Spreads

• Provide tangy mustard or horseradish sauce as an extra flavor option.
• A sweet apple chutney can also pair beautifully with the glazed ham.

How to Perfect Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham

To ensure your Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

• Choose the right size: Select an 8-10 pound spiral ham for optimal cooking time and serving portions.
• Preheat properly: Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F before placing the ham inside.
• Baste regularly: Baste the ham every 15 minutes during the last 30 minutes of cooking for extra flavor and moisture.
• Rest before slicing: Allow the ham to rest for at least 15 minutes after baking, which helps retain juices when sliced.
• Use a meat thermometer: Check for an internal temperature of 140°F to ensure it’s heated through without drying out.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham

Pairing your Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham with delicious side dishes enhances your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting classic that complements the flavors of ham.
2. Green Bean Almondine – Fresh green beans sautéed with almonds add a crunchy texture and vibrant color to your plate.
3. Sweet Potato Casserole – A sweet side dish topped with marshmallows brings warmth and sweetness that pairs well with glazed ham.
4. Cornbread – Soft, buttery cornbread adds a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the dish.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Caramelized Brussels sprouts offer a slightly bitter taste that balances out the sweetness of the glaze.
6. Cranberry Sauce – Tart cranberry sauce provides a refreshing burst of flavor, cutting through the richness of the ham.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking a Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Ignoring the weight of the ham: Be sure to adjust cooking times based on the size of your spiral ham. A ham that weighs 8-10 pounds requires about 90 minutes of cooking time.
• Not using enough glaze: Make sure to generously apply the glaze both before and during cooking. This ensures maximum flavor absorption into each slice.
• Covering it too tightly: When covering the ham with foil, leave some space for steam to escape. This helps in achieving a beautifully caramelized exterior.
• Skipping the resting time: Allow your ham to rest after cooking for at least 15 minutes. This helps retain its juices and makes slicing easier.
• Overcooking or undercooking: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your ham reaches an internal temperature of at least 140°F for safety and optimal taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store your leftover Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• • Containers: Place the ham in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent moisture loss.

Freezing Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham

• • Duration: You can freeze your spiral ham for up to 2 months.
• • Containers: Wrap individual slices or pieces tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe bags to protect against freezer burn.

Reheating Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through (about 20 minutes).
• Microwave: Place slices in a microwave-safe dish, covering them with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of pineapple juice or glaze for moisture while warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to cook a Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham?

The cooking time for an 8-10 pound spiral ham is approximately 90 minutes at 350°F.

Can I prepare Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and glaze it ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

What should I serve with Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham?

Consider serving sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. These complement the sweet flavors beautifully.

How do I cut a spiral ham correctly?

Start from one end, slicing along the bones gently. This helps separate each slice without tearing apart the meat.

Final Thoughts

The Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Spiral Ham is not only perfect for special occasions but also offers versatility for everyday meals. Its sweet and savory flavor profile allows you to customize it with different spices or glazes. We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own!