Spiked Honey Baked Ham Glaze

This Spiked Honey Baked Ham Glaze takes a classic holiday favorite to the next level. Infused with the rich sweetness of honey, the deep caramel notes of brown sugar, and a touch of your favorite spirit, this glaze creates a beautifully caramelized crust on your ham. Perfect for festive occasions or a special family dinner, this boozy glaze adds an irresistible balance of sweet, savory, and slightly smoky flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The combination of honey and brown sugar creates a rich, glossy glaze.
• A splash of liquor (such as bourbon, rum, or whiskey) enhances the depth of flavor.
• Simple to make with pantry-friendly ingredients.
• Perfect for holiday gatherings, but easy enough for any special meal.
• Creates a crispy, caramelized crust while keeping the ham juicy and tender.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Honey
• Brown sugar
• Dijon mustard
• Apple cider vinegar
• Butter
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground cloves
• Black pepper
• Bourbon, rum, or whiskey (your choice)
• Orange zest (optional, for extra brightness)

Directions

1. Prepare the glaze – In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper.
2. Simmer the mixture – Let the glaze cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens slightly.
3. Add the liquor – Reduce the heat to low and carefully stir in the bourbon (or your chosen spirit). Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to cook off some of the alcohol while keeping the rich flavor.
4. Glaze the ham – Brush the glaze over a pre-cooked ham and bake at 325°F for 1.5-2 hours, basting every 20 minutes. For a caramelized crust, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
5. Serve – Let the ham rest before slicing and serving. Drizzle extra glaze over the top for more flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Enough glaze for a 7-10 lb ham
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
• Citrus Twist – Use orange juice instead of apple cider vinegar for a fruitier glaze.
• Maple Bourbon Glaze – Swap half the honey for pure maple syrup.
• No Alcohol Version – Replace the liquor with apple cider or extra vinegar for a rich but booze-free glaze.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover glaze in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave before using.

FAQs

What type of alcohol works best in this glaze?

Bourbon, dark rum, or whiskey all add a rich depth of flavor.

Can I use this glaze on other meats?

Yes! It works great on pork tenderloin, chicken, or even roasted vegetables.

How do I get a thick, sticky glaze?

Let the glaze simmer until it slightly reduces and thickens before applying to the ham.

Can I make this glaze ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat before using.

Do I need to remove the alcohol completely?

Simmering will cook off some of the alcohol while keeping the flavor, but if you want it completely alcohol-free, use apple cider or broth instead.

Can I use white sugar instead of brown sugar?

Brown sugar adds more depth, but white sugar can be used in a pinch.

How do I get a caramelized crust on my ham?

Broil the ham for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking for a deep golden crust.

Is this glaze too sweet?

The apple cider vinegar and mustard balance the sweetness, but you can reduce the sugar slightly if needed.

Can I freeze the glaze?

Yes, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before use.

Can I use this glaze for grilling?

Absolutely! Brush it on meat during the last few minutes of grilling to prevent burning.

Conclusion

This Spiked Honey Baked Ham Glaze is a game-changer for holiday dinners and special occasions. The blend of sweet honey, warm spices, and a boozy kick creates an unforgettable flavor that pairs beautifully with ham. Whether you’re using bourbon, rum, or whiskey, this glaze will make your ham the highlight of the meal. Try it with different variations and enjoy a rich, caramelized masterpiece!

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