Honey-Glazed Ham: The Ultimate Easter Crowd-Pleaser

Easter dinner just isn’t complete without a show-stopping centerpiece, and this Honey-Glazed Ham is here to steal the spotlight! With its perfect balance of sweet honey, savory ham, and a glossy finish that screams springtime elegance, this dish is a holiday staple for a reason.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping for leftovers (hello, ham sandwiches!), this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Plus, it’s simple enough for beginners but impressive enough to wow your guests. Ready to make your Easter table Pinterest-perfect? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Honey-Glazed Ham

• Sweet & Salty Bliss: The honey glaze caramelizes into a sticky, golden crust that pairs beautifully with the juicy, smoky ham.
• Feeds a Crowd: One ham goes a long way—perfect for Easter gatherings or meal prep.
• Springtime Vibes: Pairs like a dream with fresh sides like glazed carrots or roasted asparagus.
• Leftover Magic: Sandwiches, soups, or breakfast scrambles—your week just got tastier!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything to whip up this Easter classic. Simple, pantry-friendly, and oh-so-flavorful!

• 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (8-10 lbs)—the star of the show!
• ½ cup honey—for that sticky, sweet glaze.
• ¼ cup brown sugar—adds depth and caramelization.
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard—a tangy kick to balance the sweetness.
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter—for richness and shine.
• 1 tsp ground cloves—warm, aromatic spice that screams holiday.
• ½ tsp black pepper—a subtle bite.
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar—brightens the glaze and cuts through the richness.
• Optional: pineapple slices or cloves for studding—for that retro vibe and extra flavour.

How to Make Honey-Glazed Ham (Step-by-Step)

Follow these simple steps to transform your ham into a glossy, flavor-packed masterpiece. Preheat your oven and let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Prep the Ham

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
• Place the ham in a large roasting pan, cut side down. If you’re feeling fancy, score the surface in a diamond pattern (about ¼-inch deep) to let the glaze seep in. Stud with whole cloves or lay pineapple slices on top for extra flair.

Step 2: Make the Honey Glaze

• In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
• Stir in honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, black pepper, and apple cider vinegar. Whisk until smooth and bubbly (about 3-4 minutes). Set aside to cool slightly—this glaze is liquid gold!

Step 3: Glaze It Up

• Brush half the glaze generously over the ham, making sure it drips into those scored cuts or between spiral slices. Reserve the other half for basting.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

• Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake for 1.5-2 hours (about 15 minutes per pound), until it’s warmed through (internal temp should hit 140°F/60°C for pre-cooked hams).
• Every 30 minutes, baste with pan juices and a bit more glaze for that sticky, caramelized finish.

Step 5: Final Glaze & Caramelize

• Remove the foil, crank the oven to 400°F (200°C), and brush on the remaining glaze. Bake for another 15-20 minutes, uncovered, until the top is golden and slightly crispy.

Step 6: Rest & Serve

• Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes under foil to lock in those juices. Slice and serve with your favorite spring sides—think roasted veggies or mashed potatoes!