Glazed Ham with Cloves

Name: Glazed Ham with Cloves
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 6-8 pounds); 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup honey; 1/4 cup Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; Whole cloves (for studding the ham)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Glazed Ham with Cloves is a show-stopping centerpiece for any festive occasion. The sweet and savory glaze, enhanced with aromatic cloves, creates a dish that is both visually stunning and deliciously satisfying.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-03T17:30:27.391Z

This Glazed Ham with Cloves is not just a meal; it's a tradition. Perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions, this dish brings warmth and joy to any table. The combination of sweet and spicy flavors will delight your guests and leave them asking for seconds.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The perfect blend of sweetness and spice
A beautiful centerpiece for any dining table
Leftovers are just as delicious!

      

The Perfect Holiday Dish

When it comes to holiday celebrations, the Glazed Ham with Cloves stands out as a true showstopper. Its rich flavors and beautiful presentation make it the ideal centerpiece for festive gatherings. The sweet glaze, paired with aromatic spices, creates a delightful contrast that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether it’s Christmas, Easter, or any special occasion, this ham is sure to impress your family and friends.

Not only is this dish visually stunning, but it also carries a sense of tradition. Many families have their unique recipes for glazed ham, making it a dish steeped in nostalgia. With this recipe, you can create new memories while honoring those cherished family traditions.

Tips for the Best Glazed Ham

To ensure your Glazed Ham with Cloves turns out perfectly, start with a high-quality, fully cooked bone-in ham. This type of ham provides rich flavor and a succulent texture that enhances the overall dish. Pay attention to the size; a 6-8 pound ham is ideal for feeding a crowd, ensuring everyone can enjoy a hearty serving.

Scoring the surface of the ham not only gives it an appealing look but also allows the glaze to penetrate deeper, infusing the meat with flavor. Using whole cloves to stud the ham adds a beautiful touch and elevates the aroma as it cooks. Remember to baste regularly to achieve that glossy, caramelized finish.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

One of the best things about this Glazed Ham with Cloves is that the leftovers are just as delicious as the main dish. After your feast, store any remaining ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it can last for up to a week, making it a convenient option for quick meals throughout the week.

When it comes to reheating, slice the ham into even portions and place it in a baking dish. Cover with foil to retain moisture and reheat in the oven at a low temperature. You can also add a splash of broth or water to the dish to keep the meat juicy. Enjoy your delicious leftovers in sandwiches, salads, or as a main course.

Ingredients

For the Glazed Ham

1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 6-8 pounds)
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Whole cloves (for studding the ham)

These ingredients will help you create a beautifully glazed ham that is bursting with flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Ham

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, cut side down. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern and stud with whole cloves.

Make the Glaze

In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.

Glaze the Ham

Brush the glaze generously over the surface of the ham. Reserve some glaze for later basting.

Bake the Ham

Bake the ham in the preheated oven for about 90 minutes, basting with the reserved glaze every 30 minutes, until heated through and caramelized.

Serve

Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

This glazed ham is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite at your family gatherings!

Pairing Suggestions

To complement the rich flavors of the Glazed Ham with Cloves, consider serving it alongside classic sides such as roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad. These dishes balance the sweetness of the glaze with their savory and fresh elements, creating a well-rounded meal.

For beverages, a fruity red wine or a spiced cider can enhance the dining experience. The acidity in these drinks cuts through the richness of the ham, providing a refreshing contrast that elevates every bite.

Variations to Try

While the traditional recipe for Glazed Ham with Cloves is delightful, don't be afraid to experiment with different flavors. For a tropical twist, try adding pineapple juice to your glaze or even studding the ham with pineapple slices. This adds a unique sweetness and brightness that pairs beautifully with the savory ham.

If you prefer a bit of heat, consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or using a spicy mustard in place of Dijon. This can create an exciting contrast that will surprise and delight your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of ham?

Yes, you can use a boneless ham or a different flavor profile, but cooking times may vary.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze glazed ham?

Yes, you can freeze glazed ham. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with glazed ham?

Glazed ham pairs well with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.