Bourbon Glazed Ham is a sweet and savory masterpiece that’s perfect for any festive gathering. This delightful dish combines the rich flavors of bourbon with a succulent ham, creating a memorable centerpiece for your holiday table. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving or hosting a holiday feast, this recipe will impress your guests and leave them craving more. With its glossy glaze and tender meat, Bourbon Glazed Ham transforms any occasion into a special celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Bourbon Glazed Ham

This Bourbon Glazed Ham is an easy bourbon ham recipe that brings together the best of flavors. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Rich and complex flavor from the bourbon-infused ham.
Perfectly sweetened with brown sugar for a delightful contrast.
Easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy hosts.
Great for large gatherings, serving up to 12 people.
Versatile enough to pair with various sides.
Can be made ahead, allowing for stress-free entertaining.
Gluten-free diet friendly, catering to various guests.
A classic bourbon glazed holiday ham that elevates any meal.

Ingredients for Bourbon Glazed Ham

Gather these items:

8 to 10 pounds fully cooked bone-in ham (Boneless ham can be substituted if preferred.)
3/4 cup bourbon (If non-alcoholic, substitute with apple cider.)
2 cups brown sugar (Light brown sugar can be substituted.)
1 tablespoon ground mustard (Yellow mustard works well as a substitute.)
1 tablespoon orange marmalade (Substitute with orange preserves or honey if desired.)
1/8 teaspoon ground coriander (Can replace with ground cumin if unavailable.)

How to Make Bourbon Glazed Ham Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F.
Step 2: Prepare the ham by placing it on a rack in a shallow roasting pan. Score the surface into diamond shapes, about 1/2 inch deep.
Step 3: Brush the ham generously with 2 tablespoons of bourbon and bake uncovered for 2 hours.
Step 4: Mix the glaze by combining brown sugar, ground mustard, orange marmalade, ground coriander, and the remaining bourbon in a bowl.
Step 5: Spoon the glaze mixture over the ham and bake for an additional 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
Step 6: Rest the ham for 15 minutes before slicing.

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Pro Tips for the Best Bourbon Glazed Ham

Keep these in mind:

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F.
Score the ham to allow the glaze to penetrate and enhance the flavor.
For the best bourbon glaze for ham, choose a quality bourbon with deep flavor notes.
Let the ham rest before slicing to retain its juices and tenderness.
For a spicy bourbon glazed ham, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze.

Best Ways to Serve Bourbon Glazed Ham

What goes well with Bourbon Glazed Ham? Here are some ideas:

Pair it with roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious plate.
Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes to balance the sweetness of the ham.
Combine with a fresh salad to add a refreshing crunch.

How to Store and Reheat Bourbon Glazed Ham

To store your Bourbon Glazed Ham, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. It can last for up to 5 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 325°F until warmed through, approximately 15-20 minutes. This is also a great meal prep option for busy weeks!

Frequently Asked Questions About Bourbon Glazed Ham

What’s the secret to perfect Bourbon Glazed Ham?

The secret lies in the bourbon glaze, which enhances the ham’s natural sweetness. Using quality bourbon for glazing ensures a flavorful result. A well-scored ham also allows the glaze to seep into the meat, creating a juicy and succulent dish.

Can I make Bourbon Glazed Ham ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the ham in advance by scoring and glazing it. Refrigerate it overnight, then simply reheat it before serving. This method is excellent for busy holiday gatherings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Bourbon Glazed Ham?

Avoid overcooking the ham by monitoring the internal temperature closely. Also, make sure to score the ham properly to allow the glaze to penetrate well. Using a quality bourbon will enhance your results significantly.

Variations of Bourbon Glazed Ham You Can Try

Here are some tasty variations to consider:

Substitute maple syrup for brown sugar for a maple bourbon glazed ham.
Try adding different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a unique twist.
For a spicy bourbon glazed ham, include some chili flakes in the glaze.
Use a honey bourbon glazed ham for an extra layer of sweetness.

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For more tips on preparing ham, check out this guide.

For information on the health benefits of ham, visit Healthline.

To learn more about bourbon and its uses in cooking, refer to The Spruce Eats.