Every holiday season, there’s an unmistakable anticipation that fills the kitchen as families gather around the table. One dish that always steals the spotlight is, without a doubt, a beautifully glazed Honey Baked Ham. The moment you whip up this Copycat Honey Baked Ham, the sweet aroma of honey mingling with a hint of spice is enough to make your mouth water.
This recipe offers a delightful twist on the classic version, perfect for anyone looking to recreate that festive magic without breaking the bank. Imagine a perfectly caramelized crust that crackles as you slice, revealing moist, flavorful meat beneath—this is not just a meal; it’s an experience. With just a few simple ingredients, you can impress your loved ones with a dish that tastes gourmet but is effortless to make. Join me as we embark on a culinary journey that transforms an ordinary ham into a centerpiece worthy of any gathering!
Why is Copycat Honey Baked Ham so irresistible?
Nostalgic Flavors: This recipe evokes treasured memories of holidays spent with family and friends.
Simplicity: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have an impressive dish on your table without the stress.
Eye-Catching Presentation: The beautiful caramelized crust not only delights the palate but also makes for a stunning centerpiece that will wow your guests.
Versatility: Perfect for holiday feasts, casual dinners, or even sandwiches, this ham is as adaptable as it is delicious.
Budget-Friendly: Enjoy the luxurious taste of honey-baked ham without the hefty price tag of store-bought options.
Crowd-Pleasing Hero: Whether it’s a family gathering or a friendly get-together, this ham is guaranteed to steal the show and leave everyone wanting more!
Copycat Honey Baked Ham Ingredients
For the Glaze
• Honey – Adds sweetness to the glaze; maple syrup can be used for a different sweetness profile.
• Unsalted Butter (melted) – Provides richness and helps the glaze adhere; use salted butter cautiously or reduce salt elsewhere.
• Dijon Mustard – Adds tang and depth to the glaze; yellow mustard can be used for a milder flavor.
• Onion Powder – Enhances flavor with a mild onion taste; fresh onions can be used if preferred.
• Sweet Paprika – Adds mild sweetness and color; smoked paprika can give a deeper taste.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Provides heat and balances sweetness; adjust according to taste preference.
• Ground Cinnamon, Ground Ginger, Ground Cloves, Ground Nutmeg – Contributes warm spice notes to enhance flavor complexity; omit or adjust based on personal spice tolerance.
For the Ham
• (8-lb.) Smoked Half Bone-in Spiral-Cut Ham – Key ingredient for juicy results; use bone-in to prevent drying out during cooking.
• Granulated Sugar – Creates a crispy crust when caramelized; brown sugar can be used for a richer flavor.
How to Make Copycat Honey Baked Ham
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Preheat: Set your oven to 325°F (160°C). This ensures a proper cooking environment for your spiral-cut ham, helping it stay juicy and flavorful.
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Mix the Glaze: In a mixing bowl, combine honey, melted unsalted butter, Dijon mustard, onion powder, sweet paprika, freshly ground black pepper, and spices. Stir until smooth and well blended, creating a delightful mixture ready to enhance your ham.
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Glaze the Ham: Generously coat the surface of your spiral-cut ham with the prepared glaze. Make sure to get into the crevices to allow the flavors to infuse deeply into the meat.
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Bake Covered: Place the glazed ham in a roasting pan and cover it tightly with foil. Bake for about 2 hours, basting with the glaze every 30 minutes for that extra layer of flavor and moisture.
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Caramelize the Crust: After 2 hours, remove the foil, sprinkle granulated sugar evenly over the glazed surface, and increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes, or until the crust turns a beautiful golden brown and crunchy.
Optional: Serve with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of extra ground pepper for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Copycat Honey Baked Ham
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Choose the Right Ham: Always opt for a bone-in, spiral-cut ham to ensure it stays moist and flavorful throughout the cooking process.
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Baste Often: Make sure to baste your ham every 30 minutes during the first two hours. This keeps the meat juicy and enhances the glaze’s flavor.
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Watch the Sugar: Keep a close eye on the sugar while caramelizing. It should turn a deep golden brown, but if it begins to burn, reduce oven temperature slightly.
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Perfect Glaze Distribution: Ensure to fill in every crevice of the ham with the glaze. This allows every bite to be packed with that rich flavor, typical of a great copycat honey baked ham.
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Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust spices based on your personal preference, keeping in mind the warm spice notes enhance the flavor complexity beautifully.
Storage Tips for Copycat Honey Baked Ham
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Room Temperature: Enjoy leftover ham within 2 hours of cooking to prevent spoilage; this helps keep the flavors fresh and safe for eating.
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This keeps the Copycat Honey Baked Ham moist and ready for delicious meals.
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Freezer: Freeze any leftover ham pieces in airtight freezer bags for up to 3 months. Be sure to label the bags with the date for easy tracking!
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Reheating: To reheat, wrap the ham in foil and place it in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through, ensuring the flavors remain vibrant and juicy.
Copycat Honey Baked Ham Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own with these exciting variations!
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Tropical Twist: Add crushed pineapple to the glaze for a sweet and tangy flavor that brightens the dish. This little addition can elevate your ham with a hint of summer vibes.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in some red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a delightful heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness. Just a pinch can transform the flavor profile and make your ham unforgettable.
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Maple Magic: Substitute maple syrup for honey in the glaze for a rich, caramel-like flavor that brings warmth to your dish. Imagine that deep, rich sweetness capturing the spirit of coziness.
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Citrusy Zing: Add orange juice or zest to the glaze for a refreshing burst of citrus flavor. This light twist helps bring balance to the sweet and savory elements of the ham.
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Herby Infusion: Mix in some fresh rosemary or thyme to the glaze for an aromatic herbaceous touch. The earthiness of these herbs complements the sweetness perfectly, creating layers of flavor.
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts over the glaze before baking for a delightful crunch and flavor contrast. The warmth from the nuts with each bite adds a delicious texture.
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Ginger Boost: Incorporate fresh grated ginger into the glaze for an invigorating zing. This spicy addition harmonizes beautifully with the warm spices and adds a new dimension to your ham.
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Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika instead of sweet paprika for a deeper, smokier profile that enhances the ham’s richness. This twist can evoke memories of summer barbecues right in your kitchen!
Make Ahead Options
These Copycat Honey Baked Ham preparations are perfect for busy home cooks! You can prepare the glaze up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix together the honey, melted butter, Dijon mustard, and spices, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its vibrant flavor. Additionally, you can glaze the ham (after placing it in the roasting pan) up to 3 days ahead; just cover it well and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, bake the ham as directed, ensuring to baste it during cooking for that succulent taste. With these make-ahead tips, you can enjoy a delicious, stress-free holiday feast with just as much flavor!
What to Serve with Copycat Honey Baked Ham?
Every meal deserves a perfect partner, and this delicious ham is no exception. Let’s explore the ideal side dishes and drinks that elevate your dining experience.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery, rich flavors of these fluffy potatoes create a comforting contrast, perfect for soaking up that lovely glaze.
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Green Beans Almondine: Fresh green beans sautéed with almonds add a delightful crunch and vibrant color, brightening your plate and palate.
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Sweet Potato Casserole: Its sweet, creamy flavor and that toasted marshmallow topping make for a fabulous sweet contrast that pairs beautifully with the savory ham.
Indulging in these sides not only enhances the meal but brings a festive feel to your gathering. The varying textures and flavors ensure every bite is as memorable as the last.
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Cranberry Sauce: A tangy contrast to the ham’s sweetness, this sauce brightens each bite, making for a refreshing accompaniment.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: The natural sweetness of caramelized carrots complements the honeyed glaze of the ham, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
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Apple Cider: This thirst-quenching drink provides a crisp, fruity finish that pairs beautifully with the richness of the ham, leaving your guests satisfied.
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Pumpkin Pie: Conclude your meal with this warm autumn classic; its spices and sweetness mirror the flavors of your honey baked ham, ensuring a delightful end to the feast.
Copycat Honey Baked Ham Recipe FAQs
What type of ham should I use for a Copycat Honey Baked Ham?
Absolutely! For this recipe, I highly recommend using a bone-in spiral-cut ham, as it retains moisture during cooking and provides a more flavorful result. The bone helps keep the meat juicy, while spiral cuts allow the glaze to penetrate deeply, ensuring every slice is packed with that irresistible sweet and smoky flavor.
How should I store leftovers from my Copycat Honey Baked Ham?
Very simply! Make sure to let your ham cool to room temperature within 2 hours of cooking. Then, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. Properly stored in the refrigerator, your ham can last for up to 5 days. This way, you’ll have delicious, ready-to-eat meals on hand throughout the week!
Can I freeze leftover Copycat Honey Baked Ham?
Of course! Freezing leftover ham is a great way to extend its life. Just slice the ham into individual portions, and place them in airtight freezer bags. Be sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. You can keep it frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, place the ham in the fridge overnight, and it will be ready to reheat and enjoy.
How can I reheat my Copycat Honey Baked Ham without drying it out?
Very important! To reheat your ham while keeping it moist, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Wrap the leftover ham in aluminum foil to retain moisture and place it in the oven. Heat for about 20-30 minutes, depending on the thickness, until it’s warmed through. This gentle reheating method ensures the glaze remains intact, and the ham stays juicy.
What should I do if my glaze isn’t caramelizing properly?
No worries! If your glaze isn’t caramelizing as expected, check the oven temperature. During the final 30 minutes of baking, make sure your ham is set to a higher temperature, around 375°F (190°C). Additionally, ensure that the sugar you sprinkle over the ham is evenly distributed. If it’s burning too quickly, lower the temperature slightly to achieve that beautifully golden crust without overcooking.
Are there any dietary restrictions I should be aware of when making Copycat Honey Baked Ham?
Absolutely! This recipe contains standard ingredients like honey, butter, and mustard, which may not be suitable for those with allergies to dairy or certain condiments. Always double-check the brand of Dijon mustard to ensure it meets dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, particularly the spices. Adjust the recipe as necessary for dietary preferences!
Unforgettable Copycat Honey Baked Ham with a Caramelized Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine honey, melted unsalted butter, Dijon mustard, onion powder, sweet paprika, freshly ground black pepper, and spices. Stir until smooth and well blended.
- Generously coat the surface of your spiral-cut ham with the prepared glaze.
- Place the glazed ham in a roasting pan and cover it tightly with foil. Bake for about 2 hours, basting with the glaze every 30 minutes.
- After 2 hours, remove the foil, sprinkle granulated sugar evenly over the glazed surface, and increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes, until the crust is golden brown.