Thanksgiving wouldn’t be complete without a glorious ham at the center of the table, right? I can’t tell you how many wonderful memories I have of gathering around with family, the aroma of a perfectly glazed Thanksgiving ham filling the air, and the excited chatter about what everyone brought to the feast. This recipe is my go-to because it’s not only delicious, but it’s also super easy to prepare! Trust me, with just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of love, you’ll have an irresistible ham that will wow your guests. Plus, the sweet and tangy glaze makes every bite a delightful experience. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make this holiday season extra special with a ham that’s as memorable as the company you keep!

Ingredients List

For the perfect Thanksgiving ham, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 whole ham (8-10 pounds), bone-in for maximum flavor
• 1 cup packed brown sugar, to create that sweet caramelized crust
• 1/2 cup honey, adding a lovely sticky sweetness
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, for a little tanginess that balances the sweetness
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, to brighten up the flavors
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves, bringing warm, aromatic notes
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, adding a hint of spice
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, for a subtle kick
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, to enhance all those delicious flavors

Make sure you have everything ready to go before you start—trust me, it makes the process so much smoother!

How to Prepare Thanksgiving Ham

Preparing a Thanksgiving ham might sound intimidating, but I promise it’s a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a show-stopping centerpiece for your holiday feast. Let’s dive right in, shall we?

Prepping the Ham

First things first, let’s get that oven preheated to 325°F (165°C). This is crucial because you want your ham to cook evenly and thoroughly. While that’s heating up, grab your ham and place it on a sturdy cutting board. Now, it’s time to score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This isn’t just for looks; scoring allows the glaze to seep into those lovely cuts, enhancing the flavor and ensuring that every bite is packed with goodness!

Making the Glaze

Now for the fun part—making the glaze! In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, black pepper, and salt. I love to use a whisk to mix it all together until it’s smooth and glossy. Just imagine that sweet and tangy aroma wafting through your kitchen—yum! Once it’s well mixed, brush the glaze generously over your scored ham, making sure to get it into those little diamond crevices. This is where the magic happens!

Baking the Ham

Time to bake! Place your beautifully glazed ham in a roasting pan and cover it loosely with foil to keep it moist while it cooks. Pop it in the oven and let it bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Don’t forget to baste the ham every 30 minutes with the juices that form in the pan—it’s key to keeping it juicy and flavorful! About 30 minutes before it’s done, carefully remove the foil to allow the glaze to caramelize and develop that gorgeous, sticky crust. Trust me, this step is what will make everyone at the table go “Wow!”

Serving the Ham

Once the ham is done baking, it’s important to let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice is tender and juicy. When you’re ready to serve, use a sharp knife to carve it into slices, following the natural lines of the meat. Arrange those slices on a beautiful platter, and don’t be shy about drizzling any remaining glaze over the top for an extra touch of indulgence. Your guests will be swooning over this stunning Thanksgiving ham, I guarantee it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare, even for novice cooks!
• Perfect for holiday feasts, making your Thanksgiving table shine.
• Deliciously glazed with a sweet and tangy flavor that everyone will adore.
• Feeds a crowd—ideal for family gatherings and celebrations.
• Leftovers are just as tasty, perfect for sandwiches or breakfast!
• Versatile enough to pair with your favorite sides, from mashed potatoes to roasted veggies.
• Creates a beautiful presentation that’s sure to impress your guests.
• Filling your home with the irresistible aroma of holiday cooking!

Tips for Success

Want to make sure your Thanksgiving ham turns out absolutely perfect? I’ve got some handy tips that will help you nail it every time! Here’s what I’ve learned from my own holiday cooking adventures:

• Choose the Right Ham: Look for a bone-in ham, as it tends to be more flavorful and moist compared to boneless options. A ham weighing between 8-10 pounds is ideal for feeding a crowd without being overwhelming.
• Bring It to Room Temperature: Before cooking, let your ham sit out for about 30 minutes. This helps it cook more evenly, resulting in a perfectly juicy texture.
• Score Strategically: Remember to score the ham in a diamond pattern, but don’t cut too deep—just enough to allow that glaze to penetrate. It makes a world of difference in flavor!
• Don’t Skip Basting: Basting every 30 minutes is crucial! It keeps the ham moist and helps that glaze develop a beautiful caramelization. Trust me, your effort will pay off!
• Use a Meat Thermometer: For the best results, check the internal temperature of the ham. You want it to reach at least 140°F (60°C) for safe and delicious eating.
• Let It Rest: After baking, don’t rush to slice! Letting the ham rest for 15 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is tender and full of flavor.
• Experiment with Glazes: Feel free to get creative! While the classic glaze is fantastic, you can mix it up with orange juice, maple syrup, or even a splash of bourbon for a unique twist.
• Pair It Right: Think about your sides! This ham pairs beautifully with roasted veggies, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a tangy cranberry sauce. It’s all about balance!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be a Thanksgiving ham pro in no time. Happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now that you’ve enjoyed your delicious Thanksgiving ham, you might find yourself with some leftovers—lucky you! Storing ham properly is key to keeping it tasty for days to come. Here’s how to do it:

First, allow the leftover ham to cool down to room temperature before storing. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. This will help keep the moisture in and prevent any unwanted odors from creeping in from the fridge. You can store your leftover ham in the refrigerator for up to a week.

If you want to keep it even longer, go ahead and freeze those leftovers! Just make sure to slice the ham first, as this makes it easier to thaw and reheat later. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Properly stored, your ham can last in the freezer for up to two months.

When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is a breeze! For best results, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the sliced ham in a baking dish, add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist, and cover it with foil. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. If you’re in a hurry, you can also pop individual slices in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, but be careful not to overdo it—nobody wants dry ham!

With these simple storage and reheating instructions, you’ll be able to savor your Thanksgiving ham long after the holiday. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Nutritional Information

Let’s talk about the numbers behind your delicious Thanksgiving ham! While I always believe that enjoying good food is about the experience and flavors, it’s nice to know what we’re putting on our plates. Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values for a serving size of one slice:

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Sugar: 15g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 15g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the size and preparation of your ham. So, while you’re indulging in that sweet and savory goodness, you can feel good knowing you’re also getting some protein in the mix. Enjoy every delicious bite!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making the perfect Thanksgiving ham? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common inquiries I hear, along with my trusty answers:

How long does it take to cook a Thanksgiving ham?

Great question! Generally, you should plan for about 15-18 minutes of cooking time per pound at 325°F (165°C). So, for an 8-10 pound ham, you’re looking at roughly 1.5 to 2 hours. Just remember to baste it every 30 minutes for maximum flavor!

Can I use a different type of glaze?

Absolutely! While the brown sugar and honey glaze is a classic, you can get creative! Try using maple syrup for a richer sweetness, or even a spicy mustard glaze for a kick. The options are endless, so feel free to experiment!

What should I do if my ham is too salty?

If your ham ends up on the salty side, don’t fret! You can balance it out by serving it with sweeter sides, like a fruit chutney or a sweet potato casserole. This contrast can really enhance the overall meal!

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Just mix the glaze ingredients together and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to use them. Give it a good stir before brushing it onto your ham, and you’re good to go!

Is it necessary to cover the ham while baking?

Yes, covering the ham with foil during the first part of the baking process helps keep it moist and prevents it from drying out. Just remember to remove it during the last 30 minutes to let that glaze caramelize beautifully!

Can I use a pre-cooked ham?

Definitely! If you’re short on time, using a pre-cooked ham is a fantastic option. Just heat it according to the package instructions and add your glaze during the last 30 minutes for that delicious finish!

What sides pair well with Thanksgiving ham?

Oh, so many delicious options! Think creamy mashed potatoes, tangy cranberry sauce, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. The sweet and savory notes of the ham really shine alongside these classic sides!

I hope these answers help you feel more confident in your Thanksgiving ham journey! If you have any other questions, feel free to reach out—I love sharing the joy of cooking with fellow food lovers!

Thanksgiving Ham: 7 Secrets for Unforgettable Flavor

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 10 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A delicious Thanksgiving ham recipe that is easy to prepare and perfect for your holiday feast.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 whole ham (8–10 pounds)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern.
3. In a bowl, mix brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cloves, cinnamon, pepper, and salt.
4. Brush the glaze over the ham.
5. Place the ham in a roasting pan and cover it with foil.
6. Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes.
7. Remove the foil for the last 30 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
8. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

Notes

• Choose a bone-in ham for more flavor.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Reheat ham slices in the microwave or oven.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: thanksgiving ham, holiday ham, glazed ham