Glazed Ham with Cloves

Name: Glazed Ham with Cloves
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 (8-10 lb) fully cooked bone-in ham; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup honey; 1/4 cup Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Highlighted under: Comfort Cravings Kitchen

This Glazed Ham with Cloves recipe combines sweet and savory flavors, making it a perfect centerpiece for any festive occasion.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-03T19:46:28.109Z

This Glazed Ham with Cloves recipe is a wonderful way to celebrate special occasions with family and friends. The combination of flavors creates a dish that is both comforting and elegant.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Sweet and savory glaze that caramelizes beautifully
Aromatic cloves add depth and warmth to the dish
Perfect for holiday gatherings and family feasts

      

The Perfect Holiday Centerpiece

Glazed Ham with Cloves is more than just a dish; it’s an experience that brings families together. The sweet and savory flavors blend harmoniously, creating a delightful aroma that fills your home. When presented at the dinner table, this ham becomes the star of the show, inviting everyone to gather around and indulge. Whether it’s Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any special occasion, this recipe creates lasting memories and traditions.

The visual appeal of the glazed ham, with its shiny, caramelized exterior and aromatic spices, makes it irresistibly inviting. The diamond score marks not only enhance the presentation but also allow the glaze to seep into the meat, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. This dish is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.

Flavor Profile and Ingredients

This recipe brilliantly combines a variety of flavors, each contributing to the overall taste. The brown sugar and honey provide the perfect sweetness, while the Dijon mustard adds a tangy kick. Ground cloves and cinnamon introduce warmth and complexity, making every slice a delightful surprise. Together, these ingredients work in harmony to create a glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, resulting in a mouthwatering crust.

Using a fully cooked, bone-in ham not only simplifies the cooking process but also enhances the flavor. The bone infuses the meat with additional richness as it cooks, ensuring that every bite is tender and juicy. This easy-to-follow recipe allows even novice cooks to achieve professional results, making it accessible for everyone.

Tips for the Best Glazed Ham

To achieve the best results, make sure your ham is at room temperature before placing it in the oven. This helps it heat evenly and ensures that the glaze adheres properly. Additionally, basting the ham with the reserved glaze every 30 minutes not only enhances flavor but also creates a stunning caramelization that makes the dish visually appealing.

For added depth, consider adding whole cloves to the scoring cuts on the ham. This not only enhances the aroma but also allows the clove flavor to infuse the meat. Remember, patience is key; allowing the ham to rest for 15 minutes after baking helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a moist and flavorful dish.

Ingredients

For the Glazed Ham

1 (8-10 lb) fully cooked bone-in ham
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Ham

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, making shallow cuts.

Make the Glaze

In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, cinnamon, and black pepper over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.

Glaze the Ham

Place the ham in a roasting pan and brush the glaze over the surface. Reserve some glaze for basting.

Bake the Ham

Bake the ham in the preheated oven for about 90 minutes, basting with the reserved glaze every 30 minutes.

Serve

Once the ham is heated through and caramelized, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your delicious glazed ham with your favorite sides!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Glazed Ham with classic sides like roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a refreshing salad. The sweet and savory profile of the ham complements a variety of flavors, making it versatile for any meal. You can also serve it with homemade bread or rolls for a hearty feast.

For a festive touch, consider garnishing the ham with fresh herbs or citrus slices. This not only adds color but also enhances the presentation. A side of cranberry sauce or apple chutney can provide a delightful contrast, balancing the sweetness of the glaze.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the glazed ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze portions for longer storage; just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the oven to preserve moisture.

To reheat, cover the ham with foil and heat at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through. Basting with some of the reserved glaze during reheating will help maintain its delicious flavor and keep it moist. Leftover ham is perfect for sandwiches, salads, or even breakfast dishes, making it a versatile ingredient.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with the glaze by adding your favorite spices or ingredients. For a spicier kick, incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper. Alternatively, swap honey for maple syrup for a different sweetness that pairs wonderfully with ham.

If you’re looking for a more tropical twist, consider adding pineapple juice to the glaze. This adds a fresh and fruity note that complements the savory flavors beautifully. Each variation brings a unique spin to the classic glazed ham, allowing you to customize it to your taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of ham?

Yes, you can use a boneless ham or a smoked ham for a different flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze glazed ham?

Yes, you can freeze glazed ham for up to 2 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly.

→ What sides go well with glazed ham?

Mashed potatoes, green beans, and a fresh salad are great sides to serve with glazed ham.