There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a Bourbon-Glazed Ham wafting through the house, instantly transforming a regular gathering into a festive celebration. I’ll never forget the first time I served this dish; my friends practically pinned me down, begging for the recipe. It was a delightful marriage of savory and sweet, where the rich flavor of bourbon melds beautifully with the brown sugar and a hint of orange marmalade.
Imagine slicing into that perfectly glazed exterior, revealing a tender, juicy ham within. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or just want to elevate your weekend dinner, this easy-to-follow recipe will impress your guests without keeping you tied to the kitchen for hours. Trust me, the praise you’ll receive is worth every minute! Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
Why is Bourbon-Glazed Ham the Perfect Dish?
Delightful Aroma: As it bakes, the scent of bourbon and spices fills your home, inviting everyone to gather around the table.
Savory-Sweet Combination: The blend of brown sugar, mustard, and orange marmalade gives a rich flavor that is utterly irresistible.
Impressive Presentation: Scoring the ham creates beautiful diamond shapes that make this dish a feast for the eyes.
Effortlessly Simple: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can serve a gourmet dish without the hassle.
Crowd-Pleasing Favorite: Perfect for holidays or special occasions, this recipe is sure to earn rave reviews from your guests.
Elevate your culinary skills with this lovely recipe that brings comfort and joy!
Bourbon-Glazed Ham Ingredients
• You’ll love how simple these ingredients come together to create magic!
For the Ham
- Fully cooked bone-in ham – This 8 to 10-pound ham is crucial for that classic flavor and tenderness.
For the Glaze
- Bourbon – Divided into three-quarters cup, this adds a rich, smoky sweetness to the dish.
- Brown sugar – Two cups of packed brown sugar create that delightful caramelization on the ham.
- Ground mustard – One tablespoon enhances the savory profile, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
- Orange marmalade – One tablespoon lends a zesty kick that complements the bourbon-glazed ham perfectly.
- Ground coriander – Just an eighth teaspoon adds a surprising depth to the flavor profile.
Bring joy to your dining table with this Bourbon-Glazed Ham recipe that everyone will love!
How to Make Bourbon-Glazed Ham
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Prepare the Ham: Place the fully cooked bone-in ham on a rack in a shallow roasting pan. Score the surface in diamond shapes, about 1/2 inch deep, to allow the glaze to soak in beautifully.
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Brush with Bourbon: Brush the scored ham with 2 tablespoons of bourbon. This step adds an aromatic flavor right from the start. Bake uncovered in a preheated oven at 325°F for 2 hours.
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Mix the Glaze: While the ham bakes, combine the remaining bourbon, brown sugar, ground mustard, orange marmalade, and ground coriander in a small bowl. Stir until smooth, creating a luscious glaze.
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Glaze the Ham: After the initial baking, spoon the prepared glaze generously over the ham. This layer will create that decadently sweet and sticky crust as it bakes further.
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Final Bake: Return the glazed ham to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until a meat thermometer reads 140°F. This ensures every bite is perfectly heated through and bursting with flavor.
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Rest Before Slicing: Once finished, let the ham stand for 15 minutes before slicing. Allowing it to rest ensures the juices redistribute for maximum tenderness in each slice.
Optional: Garnish with fresh orange slices for an extra pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Bourbon-Glazed Ham
Fridge: Store leftover Bourbon-Glazed Ham in an airtight container or tightly wrapped with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Freezer: If you want to preserve it longer, wrap the ham slices securely in foil or freezer-safe bags, and freeze for up to 2 months. This way, you can enjoy this delectable dish beyond the holiday season!
Reheating: To reheat, place the slices in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm them in a preheated oven at 325°F until heated through. This method keeps the ham juicy and delicious.
Serving Tip: Always remember to let it rest after reheating, ensuring the flavors of the Bourbon-Glazed Ham stay as vibrant as ever!
Bourbon-Glazed Ham Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful recipe by adding your unique twist!
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a warm, zesty flavor that brings a little heat to the sweetness.
Picture serving this at your next family gathering, where every bite surprises the palate with a slow burn. -
Maple-Glazed: Swap out the brown sugar for an equal amount of maple syrup for an earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the bourbon.
This twist adds a touch of autumn to your dish, perfect for cozy gatherings. -
Herb-Infused: Add fresh rosemary or thyme to your glaze to incorporate a fragrant herbal note that elevates the overall profile.
Imagine the aromas filling your kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. -
Citrus Burst: Include the zest of a lemon or lime in your glaze for an extra zing that cuts through the richness.
This bright touch can bring a refreshing contrast to the savory ham! -
Peach Preserves: Replace the orange marmalade with peach preserves for a fruity twist that adds a unique sweetness.
The peachy flavor can transport you to summer, especially when served during warmer seasons. -
Vegan Option: Use a plant-based ham alternative and substitute bourbon with apple cider for an equally delightful vegan rendition.
This version allows everyone to enjoy the flavors without compromising on taste! -
Ginger Zest: Add a teaspoon of freshly grated ginger to the glaze for an exotic twist that intrigues the senses.
The warm spice will enchant your guests and invite them to ask for more details on how you made this dish magical!
Make Ahead Options
You can make your Bourbon-Glazed Ham a breeze with some advance prep! Start by scoring the ham and applying the initial bourbon brush up to 24 hours ahead, then cover and refrigerate to keep it fresh. Additionally, mix the glaze ingredients (brown sugar, mustard, marmalade, coriander, and the remaining bourbon) and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When it’s time to serve, simply take the ham out, apply the glaze, and bake as directed. This way, you ensure your dish remains just as delicious while saving precious time on busy occasions!
Expert Tips for Bourbon-Glazed Ham
• Choose Quality Ham: Opt for a fully cooked bone-in ham from a trusted source to ensure the best flavor and tenderness.
• Score Properly: Make sure to score the ham deeply enough (1/2 inch), allowing the glaze to penetrate and flavor the meat without cutting too deep into the bone.
• Bourbon Balance: Use a smooth bourbon that you enjoy drinking, as this will significantly influence the taste of your Bourbon-Glazed Ham.
• Resting Time Matters: Don’t skip the resting time after baking; this helps the juices reintegrate for each slice, preventing dryness.
• Avoid Burnt Glaze: Keep an eye on the glaze during the final baking; if it’s getting too dark, you may need to cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning.
What to Serve with Bourbon-Glazed Ham?
Imagine a table filled with flavors that complement the sweet, smoky richness of your Bourbon-Glazed Ham, creating a delightful feast for the senses.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery, creamy texture of mashed potatoes provides a comforting base that pairs beautifully with the saucy ham.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These little green gems get caramelized and crispy, offering a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the glaze.
- Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, honey-glazed carrots enhance the flavor profile while adding a pop of color to your plate.
- Crispy Green Bean Almondine: The nuttiness of toasted almonds brings a delightful crunch, balancing the rich, succulent ham’s flavors.
- Savory Cornbread: This slightly sweet, buttery bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious glaze, making every bite memorable.
- Mixed Green Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette: A fresh salad dressed in zesty flavors brightens the plate and complements the ham beautifully.
- Chardonnay: A chilled glass of wine with crisp acidity refreshes your palate, making it the perfect drink to enjoy alongside your ham.
- Apple Pie a la Mode: Finish the meal on a sweet note with warm apple pie and a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a comforting ending to the feast.
- Chocolate Tart: For an indulgent dessert, the rich chocolate in a tart form contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the ham.
- Peach Iced Tea: This refreshing drink adds a fruity twist, perfectly balancing the meal and keeping everyone cool and happy.
Bourbon-Glazed Ham Recipe FAQs
What type of ham should I use for Bourbon-Glazed Ham?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and tenderness, choose a fully cooked bone-in ham weighing between 8 to 10 pounds. This cut gives you that classic juicy texture and rich taste that makes this dish truly special.
How should I store leftover Bourbon-Glazed Ham?
Very simple! Store any leftover ham in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, you can savor those delicious flavors for your next meal!
Can I freeze Bourbon-Glazed Ham? If so, how?
Definitely! To freeze your leftover ham, slice it into portions and wrap each piece tightly in foil or place them in freezer-safe bags. Make sure to eliminate as much air as possible. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!
What should I do if my glaze burns during cooking?
Oh no! If you notice that the glaze is getting too dark while baking, don’t hesitate to cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil to shield it from the direct heat. It allows the ham to finish cooking without burning the sweet coating. Just keep an eye on it so it comes out perfectly!
Are there any dietary considerations for Bourbon-Glazed Ham?
Certainly! When preparing Bourbon-Glazed Ham, it’s important to consider guests with dietary restrictions. The recipe contains bourbon, which is not suitable for everyone, especially kids or those avoiding alcohol. You can replace bourbon with apple cider or a sugar-free glaze for those who prefer a non-alcoholic version without sacrificing the deliciousness. Always check for allergies related to ingredients like mustard and marmalade before serving.
How long does it take to reheat the ham properly?
To reheat, preheat your oven to 325°F. Place the ham slices in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm them for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are heated through. This method ensures that the ham stays moist and flavorful. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving to retain its delicious juices!
Savory Bourbon-Glazed Ham for a Show-Stopping Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Ham: Place the fully cooked bone-in ham on a rack in a shallow roasting pan. Score the surface in diamond shapes, about 1/2 inch deep, to allow the glaze to soak in beautifully.
- Brush with Bourbon: Brush the scored ham with 2 tablespoons of bourbon. Bake uncovered in a preheated oven at 325°F for 2 hours.
- Mix the Glaze: While the ham bakes, combine the remaining bourbon, brown sugar, ground mustard, orange marmalade, and ground coriander in a small bowl. Stir until smooth.
- Glaze the Ham: After the initial baking, spoon the prepared glaze generously over the ham.
- Final Bake: Return the glazed ham to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until a meat thermometer reads 140°F.
- Rest Before Slicing: Let the ham stand for 15 minutes before slicing.
