Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham

Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham Recipe That’ll Warm Your Heart

As the leaves turn golden and the air fills with the sweet scent of cinnamon and spice, we naturally gravitate toward dishes that bring comfort and joy. One such dish I adore is Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham. This delightful recipe has been in my family for generations, a centerpiece at our holiday gatherings, filling our home with an inviting aroma that hugs you like a warm blanket. When I see that charcoal spiral-cut ham nestled on the table, I’m instantly whisked back to my childhood, surrounded by laughter and love. Prepare to create your own cozy memories with this easy-to-follow recipe for a tender, succulent ham glazed with an unforgettable maple bourbon sauce. This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham is perfect for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or special occasions. It’s a show-stopping centerpiece that will impress your guests.
• Easy to Make: With minimal effort and time, you can achieve a restaurant-quality dish that feels homemade and heartfelt.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet maple syrup and rich bourbon (or apple juice, if you prefer) creates a warm and indulgent glaze that infuses each slice with flavor.
• Versatile: Serve this ham for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday dinner, a cozy Sunday family meal, or an impressive potluck contribution.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the glaze in advance, and reheat it before basting the ham, making it a fantastic option for stress-free entertaining.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham

• 1 pre-cooked spiral ham (8-10 pounds)
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick / 113 g)
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed (200 g)
• 1/2 cup bourbon (substitutable with apple juice or chicken broth)
• 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup

How to Make Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F and position the rack in the lower third.
2. Place the spiral ham cut side up in a roasting pan.
3. Rub the Dijon mustard over the entire surface of the ham, making sure to get into the crevices.
4. In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, kosher salt, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, dry mustard, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the ham.
5. Roast the ham in the oven for about 30 minutes to warm it through.
6. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar, bourbon (or apple juice), and maple syrup, cooking until the glaze thickens and becomes glossy.
7. Baste the ham with the warm glaze, then cover loosely with foil. Continue roasting for about 2 hours until the internal temperature reaches 140°F, basting every 30 minutes with more glaze.
8. Pour the remaining glaze over the ham 10 minutes before removing it from the oven for a final touch of flavor.
9. Let the ham rest for about 15 minutes before slicing it. This helps to keep it juicy and tender.

Fun Ways to Customize It

• Tropical Twist: Add crushed pineapple to the glaze for a zesty, tropical flair that brightens the flavors.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in some chipotle powder or red pepper flakes for an electrifying heat that perfectly complements the sweetness.
• Herb Infusion: Enhance the glaze with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch that feels vibrant and garden-fresh.
• Cranberry Drizzle: Incorporate homemade cranberry sauce into the glaze for a sweet-tart balance that adds a delightful pop of color and flavor.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

• Make-Ahead Advice: Prepare the glaze the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just warm it up before basting to save time during your event.
• Kings of Storage: Leftover ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
• Slicing Secrets: For the best slices, use a sharp carving knife and cut against the grain. This will ensure each piece is tender and easy to enjoy.
• Basting Bonus: Feel free to increase the amount of glaze you prepare if you want extra sauce for serving. It’s irresistible drizzled over mashed potatoes or draped on sandwiches!

Nutrition Information per Serving

• Serving Size: 3 oz
• Calories: 250
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Sugars: 15g
• Fat: 12g
• Protein: 15g
• Sodium: 800mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Prepare the glaze in advance, and warm it up just before you need to baste the ham.

Can I use different ingredients?
Absolutely! If you want to skip the alcohol, apple juice or chicken broth works beautifully.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

How long does it last?
Leftover ham can be enjoyed for about a week when stored properly in the refrigerator.

A Cozy Closing Note

This Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham is not just a recipe; it’s a warm reminder of family traditions, laughter, and celebrating the moments that matter most. The sweet, savory aroma wafting through your home as it roasts will pull everyone in, making it easy to create cherished memories around the table. Save this Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham to your Holiday board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat! Enjoy every delicious bite!