Name: Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham: A Sweet & Savory Holiday Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 90 min
Total time: 125 min
Ingredients: 8-10 pounds bone-in ham (fully cooked); 1 cup pure maple syrup; 1/2 cup bourbon (choose a bourbon you enjoy drinking); 1/2 cup packed brown sugar; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon salt; 10 pieces whole cloves (for studding the ham)

As I stood in the kitchen, the smell of maple syrup and bourbon began to dance through the air, igniting memories of family gatherings and shared meals. That’s the magic behind this Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham—a holiday ham recipe that brings warmth and joy to the dinner table. Not only is this oven-baked ham a remarkable centerpiece for special occasions, but its sweet, spiced glaze makes it an absolute crowd-pleaser. The best part? Prep takes just 20 minutes, leaving you plenty of time to connect with loved ones. Imagine the delight on their faces as you serve up perfectly glazed slices, perfectly moist and bursting with flavor. Are you ready to turn your next gathering into a feast they’ll never forget?

Why is Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham Irresistible?

Irresistible Flavor: The unique blend of maple syrup and bourbon creates a sweet, tangy flavor profile that’s hard to resist.

Time-Saving Delight: With just 20 minutes of prep, you can focus more on enjoying time with loved ones instead of being stuck in the kitchen!

Showstopper at Any Table: Serve this holiday ham recipe as the centerpiece and watch it steal the show at every gathering.

Moist and Tender: Baking the ham ensures it stays juicy and flavorful, while basting with the homemade glaze deepens the richness.

Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with classic sides like mashed potatoes or even on a sandwich for leftovers—this ham does it all!

Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham Ingredients

Get ready to create a holiday masterpiece with these essential ingredients!

For the Ham

Bone-in ham – About 8-10 pounds of fully cooked ham ensures maximum flavor and tenderness.

For the Glaze

Pure maple syrup – This adds a rich sweetness that perfectly complements the savory notes.
Bourbon – Choose a bourbon you enjoy drinking for a depth of flavor in the glaze.
Packed brown sugar – Sweetens the glaze and helps caramelize it during baking.
Dijon mustard – Adds a subtle tanginess that balances the sweetness of the maple syrup.

For the Spices

Ground cinnamon – Infuses a warm, inviting aroma that enhances the overall flavor.
Ground cloves – Imparts a lovely spiced note; a little goes a long way!
Black pepper – Adds a touch of heat to balance the sweetness.
Salt – Enhances all the flavors and ensures a well-seasoned ham.

For Decoration (Optional)

Whole cloves – Insert into the scored ham for visual appeal and added flavor during the last moments of cooking.

Now, gather these ingredients and prepare to create an unforgettable Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). While it heats, prepare a roasting pan by placing a roasting rack inside. This setup lifts the ham off the bottom, allowing for even cooking and perfect glaze coverage. As the oven warms, you can gather your ingredients and excitement for this delightful Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham.

Step 2: Score the Ham
If your bone-in ham has a thick skin, take a sharp knife and score the surface in a diamond pattern. This simple technique not only enhances the presentation but also allows the savory maple bourbon glaze to better penetrate the meat. Visualize the diamond shape as you slice, ensuring it reaches just through the surface fat without cutting too deeply into the meat.

Step 3: Place the Ham in the Oven
Position the scored ham cut side down on the roasting rack within the pan. To keep it moist while baking, cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil. This initial cooking phase will take about 1.5 hours, during which the ham will begin to warm up, making it ready for its flavorful transformation with the glaze.

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze
While the ham cooks, make the delicious glaze. In a medium saucepan, combine the maple syrup, bourbon, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, black pepper, and salt. Heat over medium, whisking occasionally until the mixture simmers gently and the sugar dissolves, about 5-7 minutes. This rich glaze will provide that irresistible flavor to your Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham.

Step 5: Glaze the Ham
After the initial 1.5 hours, carefully remove the ham from the oven. Remove the foil and brush a generous coating of your homemade glaze over the entire surface of the ham. This step is essential for achieving that mouthwatering, caramelized exterior. The tantalizing aroma will fill your kitchen, signalling that you're close to serving this festive dish.

Step 6: Finish Cooking the Ham
Return the glazed ham to the oven and roast for an additional 30 minutes. Every 10 minutes, baste the ham with any remaining glaze to enhance the flavor and ensure a beautifully glossy finish. You’ll know it’s ready when the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Keep an eye on that luxurious glaze as it begins to caramelize, turning into a deep golden color.

Step 7: Decorate with Whole Cloves
For a final touch of elegance, if desired, take some whole cloves and stud them into the intersections of the scored diamond pattern. Do this during the last 15 minutes of cooking. This not only adds flavor but also gives your Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham a stunning presentation that is sure to impress your guests.

Step 8: Let It Rest
Once your ham is beautifully glazed and caramelized, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This important step lets the juices redistribute, keeping each slice tender and moist. As the ham rests, the delightful aroma will continue to entice everyone in the room.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, slice the ham into hearty servings and arrange them on a warm platter. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the slices for that extra touch of sweetness and flavor. This Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham is now ready to be the star of your holiday table, bringing smiles and satisfied appetites to all who gather.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious hours during meal prep! You can score the ham and prepare the glaze up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the scored ham covered tightly in the refrigerator to prevent drying out, and keep the glaze in an airtight container. When you're ready to serve, preheat your oven and bake the ham as instructed, brushing it with the glaze for that irresistible caramelized finish. Just remember to increase baking time slightly, as the ham will be chilled from the fridge. This method ensures you enjoy a delicious centerpiece with minimal last-minute stress!

How to Store and Freeze Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham

Fridge: Store any leftover slices of Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the ham moist and flavorful.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the ham slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They will stay good for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw the ham in the fridge overnight. Warm it gently in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to retain moisture.

Vacuum Sealing: If you have a vacuum sealer, use it for freezing the ham to extend its freshness and prevent freezer burn.

Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham Variations

Feel like putting your own spin on this delightful dish? Here are some scrumptious ideas to elevate your Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham!

Pineapple Twist: Add crushed pineapple to the glaze for a tropical sweetness that complements the savory ham beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Introduce a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the glaze for a delightful heat that contrasts with the sweetness. Your taste buds will dance with this unexpected twist!
Herbal Infusion: Enhance the glaze with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic flavor profile. The earthy notes of herbs can bring a lovely depth to your ham.
Maple-Bourbon Substitute: Use apple cider in place of bourbon for a family-friendly version. It will still offer a lovely sweet flavor but with a mild tang that everyone can enjoy.
Citrus Zest: Incorporate orange or lemon zest into the glaze for a zesty brightness. The citrus notes will add a refreshing contrast and brighten the overall flavor.
Mustard Variations: Swap Dijon mustard for spicy brown mustard or whole grain mustard for different flavor notes. Both options will lend a pleasing texture and a bit of spice.
Sweet and Smoky: Add a touch of smoked paprika to the glaze for a smoky sweetness that perfectly complements the ham's flavor. This twist will transport your dish to another level!
Maple Reduction: For a deeper maple flavor, reduce maple syrup on the stove before adding it to the glaze. This intensifies the sweetness and richness, making each bite absolutely irresistible.

Explore these variations and let your creativity shine in the kitchen! Whether you choose to add a touch of spice or bring in new flavors, your Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham will surely be a highlight of any gathering. Pair it with classic sides like roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal everyone will love!

Expert Tips for Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham

Score Properly: Scoring the ham in a diamond pattern is essential to allow the glaze to penetrate the meat, enhancing that delectable flavor.

Don’t Skip Basting: Basting the ham every 10 minutes during the final cooking phase ensures a glossy, flavorful exterior. Don’t let the glaze sit too long without attention!

Resting Time Matters: Letting the ham rest for at least 15 minutes after baking is crucial; this allows the juices to redistribute, preventing dry slices.

Glaze Consistency: If your glaze seems too thin, simmer it for a few extra minutes to achieve the perfect thickness for coating your Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham.

Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the internal temperature of the ham; remove it once it reaches 140°F (60°C) to maintain moisture and tenderness.

What to Serve with Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham

As the tantalizing aroma of the ham lingers in the air, it's the perfect time to think about what sides will accompany your feast.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These velvety potatoes soak up the maple bourbon glaze's sweetness, making for a comforting pairing.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness and crispy edges beautifully offset the rich flavors of the ham, adding a delightful crunch.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots mirror the ham's sweet glaze, bringing extra color and vibrant flavors to your table.
Garlic Green Beans: The crispness of sautéed green beans, infused with garlic, adds sharpness to balance the sweetness of the glazed ham.
Cranberry Sauce: This tangy, fruity sauce cuts through the ham's richness and brightens up every bite, a classic holiday complement.
Cornbread: Soft, moist cornbread with a hint of sweetness pairs perfectly, capturing the essence of comfort food alongside your centerpiece.
Apple Pie: For dessert, a warm slice of apple pie provides a sweet ending while echoing the flavors of your holiday feast.
Spiced Apple Cider: This warm drink enhances the meal with cozy spices, elevating the festive atmosphere around your dinner table.

Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best ham?
Absolutely! When selecting a fully cooked bone-in ham, look for one that’s firm to the touch with a vibrant color. Avoid any hams with dark spots all over, which may indicate spoilage. A unique marbling of fat can enhance the flavor, making your Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham even more delicious!

How should I store leftover ham?
Very! Store any leftover slices of your Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham in an airtight container to keep it moist and flavorful for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. If you have more leftovers than you can eat, you can always freeze slices for later enjoyment!

Can I freeze the ham, and if so, how?
Of course! To freeze your Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham, tightly wrap the slices in plastic wrap first, making sure there’s no air trapped inside. Then, place them in a freezer bag or a vacuum-sealed bag to prevent freezer burn. It can stay deliciously preserved for up to 3 months.

What if my glaze turns out too thin?
No worries! If your glaze is too thin, you can easily fix it by continuing to simmer it gently over medium heat for an extra 3-5 minutes. This allows it to thicken further. Just keep whisking occasionally and you’ll have that perfect consistency for your Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham.

Does this recipe cater to any dietary restrictions?
Very! If you're making this Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham for guests with dietary concerns, substituting the bourbon with apple juice or a non-alcoholic whiskey brand can make it suitable for those avoiding alcohol. Plus, ensure that your Dijon mustard is gluten-free if needed, as not all brands are!