What type of ham is best for making Bourbon Glazed Ham?

For Bourbon Glazed Ham, a bone-in, fully cooked ham shank is ideal because it offers better flavor and an attractive presentation. Bone-in hams retain moisture well during cooking. However, if you prefer convenience, boneless ham can also be used, though it may be less flavorful. Spiral-cut hams can work too, but scoring is not necessary with this type.

Can I use any bourbon for the glaze, or does it need to be a specific brand?

You can use any bourbon available in your pantry for the glaze. There’s no need to buy an expensive or specific brand since the bourbon mainly adds a subtle depth of flavor and caramelization. Choose a bourbon you enjoy drinking to ensure the glaze tastes pleasant.

How do I prepare the ham before applying the Bourbon glaze?

If you have a bone-in ham with the skin removed, score the surface about ¼ inch deep in a 1-inch diamond pattern. This helps the glaze penetrate and caramelize nicely. Avoid scoring if using a spiral-cut ham, as it’s already sliced for even cooking and glaze absorption.

What oven temperature and cooking time should I use for Bourbon Glazed Ham?

Start by roasting the ham covered at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes to warm it through. Then increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C), uncover the ham, and baste it with the bourbon glaze every 15 minutes. Continue roasting for 60-75 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 150°F (65°C).

How long can I store leftover Bourbon Glazed Ham, and what is the best way to reheat it?

Leftover Bourbon Glazed Ham can be stored in the refrigerator for 5 to 6 days if wrapped properly. To reheat, place it in a roasting pan with a little water, cover with foil, and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until warmed through. Individual slices can also be reheated quickly in the microwave.

Bourbon Glazed Ham Recipe For Delicious Holiday Meals

Name: Bourbon Glazed Ham
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h 15 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 8 to 10 lb bone-in ham (shank or butt end), not sliced; – 1/2 cup pure maple syrup; – 1/2 cup dark brown sugar; – 1/3 cup bourbon; – 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce; – 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard; – 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; – 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; – 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, diced

Ingredients

– 8 to 10 lb bone-in ham (shank or butt end), not sliced

– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup

– 1/2 cup dark brown sugar

– 1/3 cup bourbon

– 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

– 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

– 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, diced

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Instructions

1-Remove the ham from the refrigerator 2 hours before cooking. If the skin is on, peel it away while keeping the fat layer intact, then score the ham in a 1-inch diamond pattern about 1/4 inch deep to help the glaze penetrate.

2-Preheat the oven to 350°F. Add 2 cups of water to the bottom of a roasting pan with a rack, place the ham cut-side down on the rack, and loosely cover with foil. Roast for 45 minutes to build moisture and tenderness.

3-In a small saucepan, combine the bourbon, maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and ground cloves. Bring to a gentle simmer while whisking, then simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and whisk in the butter until the mixture is glossy, creating a flavorful glaze.

4-Remove the ham from the oven and increase the temperature to 400°F. Brush the ham with 1/4 of the glaze, return to the oven for 15 minutes, then continue cooking for 60 to 75 minutes. Brush with the remaining glaze every 15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 150°F for perfect doneness.

5-Let the ham rest for 30 minutes before slicing away from the bone to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.

Last Step:

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Notes

💧 Adding water to the roasting pan creates steam to keep the ham moist during the initial roasting.
🌡️ Check doneness with a meat thermometer to reach an internal temperature of 150°F for perfect cooking.
🧻 Use foil to cover the ham if browning too quickly to prevent burning the glaze.

Author: Brandi Oshea
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Roasting, Glazing
Cuisine: American
Diet: Omnivore

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (about 120g)
Calories: 450 kcal
Sugar: 18 g
Sodium: 900 mg
Fat: 30 g
Saturated Fat: 10 g
Carbohydrates: 20 g
Fiber: 0 g
Protein: 35 g
Cholesterol: 110 mg