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Close-up of a richly caramelized, sliced bone-in ham with a bourbon honey glaze, garnished with fresh greens and orange slices, with apples visible in the soft background.

Bourbon Honey Baked Ham

This Bourbon Honey Baked Ham is glazed to perfection with a sweet and smoky mix of honey, brown sugar, and bourbon. A showstopping main dish that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

Ham
  • 1 fully cooked spiral-cut ham about 8–10 lbs (3.6–4.5 kg)
  • 1/2 cup water for roasting pan
Bourbon Honey Glaze
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar packed
  • 1/4 cup bourbon
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves

Equipment

  • Roasting Pan
  • Small saucepan
  • Basting Brush

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham cut-side down in a roasting pan and pour ½ cup water into the bottom. Cover loosely with foil.
  2. Bake the ham for 1½ to 2 hours, or about 15 minutes per pound, until heated through.
  3. Meanwhile, make the glaze: In a small saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, bourbon, Dijon mustard, vinegar, cinnamon, and cloves. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the glaze thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
  4. Remove ham from the oven and increase temperature to 400°F (200°C). Uncover and brush a generous layer of glaze over the ham.
  5. Return to oven and bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, basting with more glaze every 5 minutes, until caramelized and sticky.
  6. Rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with extra glaze on the side.

Notes

If you prefer a stronger bourbon flavor, increase the bourbon to ⅓ cup. You can also make the glaze ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 3 days—just reheat before brushing on the ham.