Easy Baked Honey Glazed Ham for Holidays

Looking for the perfect holiday ham recipe? This honey glazed ham is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with its juicy, tender meat and sticky, flavorful glaze. Made with just a few pantry staples like brown sugar, honey, pineapple juice, and Dijon mustard, this oven-baked ham turns out beautifully caramelized and mouthwatering every single time. Whether you’re hosting Easter, Christmas, or just a cozy family dinner, this easy glazed ham will steal the spotlight on your table.

Why You’ll Love Honey Glazed Ham

• This ham has the most amazing sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. The mix of brown sugar, honey, pineapple juice, and Dijon mustard gives it layers of flavor that are irresistible. Every bite is juicy, tender, and full of holiday magic. It’s a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike!

• It’s incredibly easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. You don’t need any fancy cooking skills or equipment—just mix, brush, and bake. The glaze comes together in minutes and adds so much flavor. It’s perfect for beginner cooks who want to impress without stress.

• This recipe is a holiday favorite, but it’s also great for special Sunday dinners or family gatherings. It feeds a crowd and makes your whole kitchen smell amazing. Plus, it looks beautiful on a serving platter with citrus slices or herbs. It really makes any meal feel like a celebration!

• Leftovers are just as delicious and super versatile. You can use them in sandwiches, omelets, soups, or even fried rice. It reheats beautifully and keeps well in the fridge or freezer. You’ll love having extra ham on hand for easy meals later in the week.

• This ham is naturally gluten-free and fits right into a variety of diets. It’s made in the oven, so no need for any special appliances. You can even tweak the glaze to suit your taste—sweeter, tangier, or with a little spice. It’s flexible, foolproof, and totally delicious.

Ingredients For Honey Glazed Ham

• Bone-in Ham (10 lbs) – The star of the recipe! Fully cooked and bone-in for maximum flavor and juicy texture.

• Dark Brown Sugar (1¼ cups) – Adds deep molasses flavor and helps the glaze caramelize perfectly.

• Pineapple Juice (⅓ cup) – Brings a tropical tang that balances the sweetness.

• Honey (⅓ cup or more to taste) – Creates a sticky, shiny glaze and adds natural sweetness.

• Orange Zest & Juice (from ⅓ of a large orange) – Adds a burst of citrus flavor that brightens the glaze.

• Dijon Mustard (2 tablespoons) – Gives a little zip and depth to the sweet glaze.

• Ground Cloves (¼ teaspoon) – Adds warm spice that pairs perfectly with the ham.

• Lemon Juice (1½ teaspoons, optional) – Just a touch for more tang if desired.

For a printable card of the ingredients, check out the recipe card at the end of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Honey Glazed Ham

• Roasting Pan with Rack – Holds the ham securely and allows for even baking with proper air circulation.

• Saucepan – Used to simmer and thicken the sweet and tangy glaze.

• Whisk – Helps combine the glaze ingredients smoothly without any lumps.

• Citrus Zester or Grater – To zest the orange and add bright citrus flavor.

• Juicer (or use your hands) – For squeezing fresh orange and lemon juice.

• Basting Brush – To coat the ham evenly with the sticky glaze.

• Measuring Cups and Spoons – Essential for accurate ingredient portions.

How To Make Honey Glazed Ham

• Preheat your oven to 325°F and get your roasting pan ready with a rack.

• Place the ham on the rack and bake it uncovered for 2 hours.

• While it bakes, combine the brown sugar, pineapple juice, and honey in a saucepan.

• Zest and juice a bit of orange into the mixture, then whisk in Dijon mustard and ground cloves.

• Let the glaze come to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer until it thickens slightly.

• Taste the glaze—adjust the sweetness or tanginess by adding more honey or lemon juice.

• After 2 hours, take the ham out of the oven and brush it generously with the glaze.

• Return it to the oven and continue baking for 30 to 45 minutes, glazing every 10 minutes.

• When the glaze is golden and sticky, the ham is ready to serve!

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair this glazed ham with butter mashed potatoes, crispy roasted brussels sprouts, and buttery dinner rolls for a festive meal everyone will love.

• Serve alongside homemade mac and cheese, collard greens, and baked cornbread for a soul-warming Southern-style dinner.

• Slice it thin and offer it with fluffy scrambled eggs, cheese biscuits, and winter fruit salad for a hearty holiday brunch.

• Arrange orange and pineapple slices around the ham on a serving platter to enhance the presentation and tie in the flavors.

• Use leftovers to build an amazing sandwich with fluffy white bread, Swiss cheese, and a smear of honey mustard or sriracha mayo sauce.

Tips For Success

• Choose the right ham – Use a fully cooked, bone-in ham for the best flavor and juicy texture. The bone helps retain moisture and adds depth while roasting. Make sure your ham fits easily in your roasting pan with space for heat to circulate. Placing it on a rack ensures even cooking.

• Bake uncovered, then glaze – Since the ham is already cooked, your goal is to warm it through and get that sticky glaze. Bake it uncovered at 325°F for 2 hours, then glaze it every 10 minutes during the last 30–45 minutes. This allows the glaze to caramelize without burning. Repeated glazing adds that beautiful, shiny coating.

• Taste and adjust your glaze – Simmer the glaze until slightly thickened, then give it a taste. Add more honey if you want it sweeter, or a squeeze of lemon for extra tang. If you enjoy heat, try a pinch of cayenne or paprika. Customizing the glaze lets you control the flavor to suit your taste.

• Glaze generously and evenly – Use a basting brush to coat the entire ham with glaze—don’t be shy! Make sure to get into every nook and cranny. Glazing every 10 minutes helps the flavor build and caramelize perfectly. If it darkens too quickly, tent loosely with foil to prevent burning.

• Let it rest before slicing – After baking, let the ham rest for 10–15 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and makes slicing much easier. The meat will be moist and flavorful. Perfect for your main dish or leftovers the next day.

Variations and Substitutions

• Try different juices – Swap the pineapple juice for apple juice, orange juice, or even cranberry juice for a unique twist. Each brings its own fruity flavor and acidity. These small changes can make your ham taste totally different. Choose what you love or what you have on hand.

• Switch up the sweetener – No honey? You can use maple syrup, agave, or even molasses in the glaze. Each sweetener will bring a slightly different depth of flavor. Maple syrup makes it rich and cozy, while agave is light and smooth. Use the same amount and adjust to your taste.

• Use spicy mustard – Dijon adds a mild zing, but you can use spicy brown mustard or whole grain mustard instead. Spicy mustard will give your glaze an extra kick. Whole grain mustard adds a nice texture and a rustic look. It’s a fun way to change things up without losing the balance of flavors.

• Add extra spices – Feel free to experiment with warm spices like cinnamon, allspice, or even nutmeg. A pinch can add depth and warmth to the glaze. Smoky paprika or chili powder will bring a little heat and smoky flavor. Just a small amount makes a big difference.

• Make it sugar-free – For a lower sugar version, use a sugar substitute like monk fruit or Swerve in place of brown sugar. Make sure your honey alternative is heat-stable and safe for cooking. Taste and adjust as needed since sugar substitutes vary in sweetness. It’s a great option for low-carb or diabetic-friendly diets.

• Use spiral-sliced ham – If you’re short on time, a pre-sliced spiral ham works perfectly. The glaze seeps into the slices for extra flavor in every bite. Just be careful not to overbake it, since pre-sliced ham can dry out faster. Reduce cooking time slightly and glaze as usual.

Storage and Reheating

• Storing Leftovers – Let the ham cool completely, then store any leftovers in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in foil. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to store the ham slices with a little of the glaze to keep them moist. It’s perfect for quick meals throughout the week!

• Freezing Leftovers – You can freeze leftover ham for longer storage. Slice or cube the ham and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. It will stay fresh in the freezer for 3 to 4 months.

• Reheating in the Oven – To reheat, place the ham slices in a baking dish and cover with foil. Warm at 325°F for about 15–20 minutes, or until heated through. Adding a spoonful of glaze or a splash of broth helps keep the ham from drying out. Avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness.

• Reheating in the Microwave – For quick reheating, microwave ham slices in a microwave-safe dish covered with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. This works great for small portions or sandwiches. Just don’t overdo it—ham can dry out quickly in the microwave.

• Serving Cold – This ham is also delicious served cold! Slice it thin and add it to salads, wraps, or sandwiches. It’s perfect for easy lunches and doesn’t need any extra prep. A little leftover glaze makes the perfect dipping sauce!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ham ahead of time?

Yes, you can absolutely make this ham ahead of time. Simply follow the recipe and allow the ham to cool completely after baking. Once cooled, cover it tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before serving. To reheat, place the ham in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm it in a 325°F oven until heated through. You can even brush with a little extra glaze before reheating for an extra burst of flavor.

What’s the best way to keep the ham moist?

The key to keeping ham moist is to bake it uncovered at a low temperature and to glaze it often during the last part of cooking. Brushing the glaze on every 10 minutes helps seal in moisture and creates that sticky, flavorful crust. You can also cover the ham loosely with foil toward the end if it starts to darken too much. Letting the ham rest after baking helps the juices redistribute, keeping each slice juicy and tender.

Can I use a boneless ham?

Yes, you can substitute a boneless ham in this recipe. The cooking time may be slightly shorter, depending on the size and shape of the boneless ham. Boneless hams are usually more uniform and easier to slice, but they may not be quite as flavorful as bone-in versions. Be sure to check the internal temperature to ensure it’s heated through, and glaze it just as you would with a bone-in ham.

How do I know when the ham is done?

Since the ham is already fully cooked, you’re just reheating it to a safe internal temperature. The goal is to bring it up to about 140°F. Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the ham (without touching the bone) to check. The ham should also be nicely caramelized on the outside from the glaze and hot all the way through.

Can I use fresh pineapple juice?

Absolutely! Fresh pineapple juice works great and will give your glaze a bright, fresh flavor. You can squeeze it from a fresh pineapple using a juicer or blender, then strain out any pulp. If you’re using canned pineapple juice, make sure it’s unsweetened so you can control the sweetness of the glaze. Both options will work, so use whatever is most convenient.

What can I do with leftover ham?

Leftover ham is super versatile! You can slice it for sandwiches, dice it for omelets, add it to pasta, or stir it into soups. It’s also delicious cold in wraps or salads. For quick meals, keep pre-sliced pieces in the fridge and toss them into your favorite dishes for extra protein and flavor.

Can I double the glaze recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the glaze if you like extra sauce. Some people enjoy having more glaze to serve alongside the ham or to use on leftovers. Just keep the ratios the same and simmer the glaze until it thickens slightly. It stores well in the fridge and reheats quickly on the stove or in the microwave.

Other Easy Ham Recipes

Cheesy Ham Sliders – These oven-baked ham sliders are loaded with gooey melted cheese and buttery rolls—perfect for parties, potlucks, or an easy dinner.

Air Fryer Ham And Cheese Sandwich – Crispy on the outside and melty on the inside, this air fryer ham and cheese sandwich is the ultimate quick and satisfying lunch.

Other Easy Honey Recipes

Honey Milk Bread Toast – Soft, fluffy milk bread toasted to perfection and drizzled with sweet honey makes the coziest breakfast or afternoon treat.

Honey Spice Cake – This moist and tender honey spice cake is filled with warm flavors and makes a delicious dessert or coffee-time snack.

Greek Honey Sesame Snack Bars – These crunchy, naturally sweet sesame honey bars are a traditional Greek treat made with just two wholesome ingredients.

Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs – Juicy chicken thighs are coated in a tangy honey mustard sauce and baked to golden perfection for an easy family dinner.

Instant Pot Glazed Baby Carrots With Honey And Cinnamon – These tender baby carrots are pressure-cooked and glazed in a sweet cinnamon honey sauce that’s perfect for holiday meals or weeknight sides.

More Holiday Recipes

• Sweet Pineapple Casserole
• Cream Cheese Almond Cheese Ball
• Cranberry Orange Loaf Cake