Bourbon Baked Ham is a show-stopping main dish that’s perfect for special occasions and holiday gatherings. This recipe takes a classic baked ham and elevates it with a sweet, smoky bourbon glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. The combination of rich, savory ham with the bold flavors of bourbon, brown sugar, and mustard creates a dish that’s both indulgent and unforgettable. Whether you’re serving it as the centerpiece of your holiday table or for a celebratory dinner, this Bourbon Baked Ham is sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1 fully cooked, bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup bourbon
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Whole cloves for studding the ham (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- If desired, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern and stud the center of each diamond with a whole clove.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the bourbon, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, cinnamon, ground cloves, and nutmeg. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Continue to simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened slightly.
- Place the ham in a large roasting pan, cut side down. Brush the ham generously with the bourbon glaze.
- Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, basting with the glaze every 30 minutes.
- For the last 30 minutes of baking, remove the foil to allow the glaze to caramelize and the ham to develop a rich, golden-brown color.
- Once the ham is heated through and beautifully glazed, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Serve your Bourbon Baked Ham with the remaining glaze on the side, and enjoy this flavorful, festive dish that’s perfect for any special occasion!
