Irresistible Maple-Bourbon Glazed Holiday Ham Recipe

There’s something magical about the aroma of a Maple-Bourbon Glazed Holiday Ham with Cranberry Relish wafting through the house. The sweet, sticky glaze paired with the tartness of cranberry creates a symphony of flavors that dances on your taste buds. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that turns any ordinary gathering into an unforgettable feast.

Imagine slicing into this succulent ham, revealing juicy layers glistening with that rich, caramelized glaze. The combination of maple syrup and bourbon brings warmth and depth, while the cranberry relish adds a refreshing zing. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just trying to impress your in-laws, this showstopper will have everyone begging for seconds.

I still remember the first time I made this ham for my family—my father’s eyes widened like saucers as he took his first bite. “This should be illegal,” he said between mouthfuls, prompting laughter around the table.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Bone-In Ham: Choose a quality bone-in ham for richer flavor and better moisture retention during cooking.

• Maple Syrup: Opt for pure maple syrup to enhance the glaze’s natural sweetness and depth.

• Bourbon: Select a good bourbon; it adds a warm note that balances perfectly with the sweetness.

• Dijon Mustard: A touch of Dijon mustard adds a delightful tang to cut through the sweetness.

• Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are best for the relish; they provide vibrant color and tartness.

• Orange Zest: Fresh orange zest brightens up the relish and complements the ham beautifully.

• Brown Sugar: Use light brown sugar to enhance caramelization without overpowering other flavors.

• Ground Cinnamon: A pinch of cinnamon introduces warm spices that evoke cozy holiday memories.

• Cloves: Whole cloves add aromatic depth—just remember to remove them before serving!

• Pineapple Juice: A splash of pineapple juice in the glaze brings extra moisture and tropical notes.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Maple-Bourbon Glazed Holiday Ham with Cranberry Relish

Preheat Your Oven : Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) while you prepare your ham. The goal is low and slow cooking for optimal tenderness.

Prepare the Ham : Score the surface of your ham in a diamond pattern using a sharp knife. This helps the glaze seep into those delicious nooks and crannies.

Create Your Glaze : In a mixing bowl, whisk together maple syrup, bourbon, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and cloves until smooth. This intoxicating blend will make you want to dive right in!

Glaze Your Ham : Brush half of your glorious glaze over the ham evenly using a basting brush. Make sure it gets into all those scored areas—those flavors need to mingle!

Bake Away : Place your glazed ham on a roasting rack inside a shallow pan. Bake uncovered for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, basting every 30 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).

Make Cranberry Relish : While your ham bakes away like a champ, combine fresh cranberries, orange zest, sugar, and pineapple juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until cranberries burst and mixture thickens—about 10-15 minutes.

When you pull that stunning Maple-Bourbon Glazed Holiday Ham out of the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes before carving, you’ll see how perfection looks—golden brown with crisp edges calling out for attention! Serve it up alongside that vibrant cranberry relish for an explosion of flavor that’ll leave everyone raving long after dinner plates are cleared.

Enjoy every bite of this deliciously festive dish during your next holiday gathering or special occasion!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve a perfectly glazed ham, start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern to allow the glaze to penetrate. Then, bake for about 15-18 minutes per pound, brushing with maple-bourbon glaze every 30 minutes for maximum flavor and caramelization. In the last 30 minutes, add the cranberry relish on top to enhance flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your ham with different glazes! Swap bourbon for rum or add mustard for tanginess. You can also mix in some orange zest or chopped nuts into your cranberry relish for added texture and flavor. Experimenting keeps it fresh every time you make this dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover Maple-Bourbon Glazed Holiday Ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, place slices in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm them in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through. This preserves moisture and keeps the ham juicy.

The first time I made this ham for Christmas dinner, my family couldn’t stop raving about it! My cousin even suggested I should start a holiday tradition because it turned out so well; I still chuckle thinking about her enthusiasm!

FAQ

How do I choose the right ham?

Selecting a quality ham is essential! Look for bone-in hams as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. A fully cooked ham is convenient since you only need to heat it through, while an uncooked or partially cooked one requires more preparation time but offers deeper flavor possibilities.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the glaze and cranberry relish a day in advance. Simply store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. On cooking day, just glaze your ham and pop it into the oven; it’s a great way to save time during busy holiday preparations!

What can I serve with my glazed ham?

Pair your Maple-Bourbon Glazed Holiday Ham with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or creamy coleslaw for a delightful meal experience. For something sweeter, consider serving honey-glazed carrots or scalloped potatoes; they complement the savory notes of the ham beautifully.

Can I freeze leftover glazed ham?

Absolutely! Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in an airtight freezer bag. Frozen ham can stay good for up to three months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Conclusion for Maple-Bourbon Glazed Holiday Ham with Cranberry Relish

In conclusion, this Maple-Bourbon Glazed Holiday Ham with Cranberry Relish is an impressive yet approachable dish perfect for any occasion. From mastering your cooking process to adding personal touches that suit your taste, each step contributes to its deliciousness. With proper storage techniques and clever side pairings, you’ll create unforgettable meals that leave everyone coming back for more!