Why Make This Recipe
Perfect Honey Glazed Spiral Ham with Pineapple Mustard Sauce is a delicious dish that everyone will love. The combination of sweet honey, tangy mustard, and juicy pineapple creates a mouth-watering flavor that makes any meal feel special. This recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings, family feasts, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. Plus, it’s easy to make and sure to be a hit at your table.
How to Make Perfect Honey Glazed Spiral Ham
Ingredients
- 8 to 10-pound pre-cooked spiral-sliced ham
- ½ cup (120 ml) honey
- ¼ cup (60 ml) Dijon mustard
- â…“ cup (70 g) packed brown sugar
- ½ cup (120 ml) pineapple juice (from canned pineapple)
- 6 to 8 canned pineapple rings
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, pineapple juice, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, and black pepper. If you like a bit of heat, add cayenne pepper.
- Place the spiral ham cut-side down on a roasting rack inside a roasting pan. If needed, secure the pineapple rings on top using toothpicks.
- Using a basting brush, coat the ham generously with the honey glaze, making sure some glaze gets between the spiral slices.
- Roast the ham uncovered for about 60 minutes, basting every 15 minutes with the remaining glaze until it bubbles and thickens to a beautiful amber color.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 140°F (60°C).
- Remove the ham from the oven and tent loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Meanwhile, prepare the pineapple mustard sauce by simmering reserved pineapple juice, a tablespoon of mustard, and a teaspoon of honey in a small saucepan until slightly thickened (about 5 minutes).
- Serve the ham warm or at room temperature with pineapple rings and drizzle the pineapple mustard sauce over the slices.
How to Serve Perfect Honey Glazed Spiral Ham
This ham is best served warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature. Slice the ham and arrange it on a serving platter with the pineapple rings. Drizzle the pineapple mustard sauce over the ham slices for a pop of flavor. Pair it with side dishes like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Perfect Honey Glazed Spiral Ham
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make sure to keep the ham slices covered to prevent them from drying out. Leftover ham can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze any leftover slices for longer storage. Just wrap them tightly, and they will last for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Tips to Make Perfect Honey Glazed Spiral Ham
- Use a basting brush to apply the glaze evenly for the best flavor.
- If you’re unsure about the cooking time, check the temperature earlier to avoid overcooking.
- Adding cayenne pepper gives the glaze a nice kick, but you can leave it out for a milder taste.
- For an extra touch, you can garnish the ham with freshly chopped herbs before serving.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by experimenting with different spices and glazes. Try adding maple syrup instead of honey for a different sweetness, or include herbs like rosemary or thyme for additional flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a smaller ham for this recipe?
Yes, you can adjust the cooking time based on the size of your ham. Just make sure to check the internal temperature for safety.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Most honey, mustard, and spices used are gluten-free, but be sure to check labels, particularly for Dijon mustard and any packaged ingredients.
Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just warm it up before using it on the ham.
