Bourbon Brown Sugar Baked Ham Recipe – Perfect Holiday Centerpiece

Looking for a glazed holiday ham that will wow your guests? My Bourbon Brown Sugar Baked Ham recipe turns a simple Christmas ham into a memorable dish. It mixes rich bourbon with deep brown sugar, making a festive ham that’s both elegant and tasty.

This recipe is simple yet packed with flavor. It’s designed for home cooks to make a dish that rivals restaurants with little effort. Whether it’s for a family get-together or a special holiday meal, this ham will be the highlight of the event.

Key Takeaways

• Perfect for holiday gatherings and special occasions
• Combines sweet bourbon and rich brown sugar flavors
• Easy to prepare with impressive results
• Works great with bone-in fully cooked ham shanks
• Can be prepared ahead of time for stress-free entertaining

Ingredients for Bourbon Brown Sugar Baked Ham

Creating the perfect southern style ham starts with the right ingredients. My bourbon glazed spiral ham recipe needs premium components. These will turn an ordinary meal into a holiday centerpiece.

Making a great brown sugar ham glaze requires quality and balance. I’ll guide you through the key ingredients and tools. This will make your maple bourbon ham unforgettable.

Essential Ingredients for Success

• 9-pound bone-in ham (preferably not pre-sliced)
• 2 cups brown sugar
• 1 cup high-quality bourbon
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 3 tablespoons yellow mustard
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Optional Flavor Enhancers

To make your ham even tastier, try these optional ingredients:

• Ground cloves
• Cinnamon
• Fresh thyme
• Orange zest

Essential Kitchen Tools

Category	Required Tools
Preparation	Large mixing bowl, whisk, measuring cups
Cooking	Roasting pan, meat thermometer, basting brush
Optional	Aluminum foil, kitchen twine

For more inspiration, check out this amazing bourbon glaze recipe. Preparing your ingredients well will make a ham that wows your guests.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Baking

Making a bourbon glazed ham is all about precision and care. I’ll guide you through the key steps to turn a regular ham into a showstopper. My bourbon brown sugar ham glaze recipe will take your baked ham to the next level.

Preparing the Ham for Baking

Before you start with the glaze, prepare your ham well. Here’s what to do:

• Take the ham out of the fridge 30 minutes before baking
• Pat the ham dry with paper towels
• Score the ham’s surface in a diamond pattern with a sharp knife
• Put the ham in a roasting pan with the fat side up

Mixing the Bourbon Brown Sugar Glaze

The key to a great baked ham with bourbon glaze is the glaze itself. Mix together:

• 1 cup bourbon
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1/4 cup yellow mustard

Simmer these ingredients in a saucepan for 15-20 minutes until it thickens a bit. The smell of this holiday bourbon ham recipe will make your kitchen warm and inviting.

Baking and Glazing Your Ham

Heat your oven to 325°F. Brush the ham with mustard and sprinkle brown sugar on it. Cover it with aluminum foil and bake for about 2 hours. Pro tip: Baste the ham with the bourbon glaze every 15-20 minutes for extra flavor.

When the ham’s internal temperature hits 145°F, take it out of the oven. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to spread, making the ham moist and delicious. It will be the star of your holiday meal.

Tips for Serving and Storing Leftovers

After making the perfect southern bourbon baked ham, it’s key to serve and store it right. My maple bourbon glazed ham recipe is great for now and later. Storing and reheating it right keeps the flavors and texture just right.

Perfect Side Dishes to Accompany the Ham

Pair your sweet bourbon ham with creamy scalloped potatoes or roasted veggies. A tangy green salad can cut the richness of the glaze. Don’t forget buttery cornbread or soft dinner rolls to round out the meal.

Storing Leftover Ham

Storing your ham needs care. Let it cool down before putting it in the fridge. Use aluminum foil or an airtight container. It stays good in the fridge for 5-6 days, and up to 4 months in the freezer.

Reheating for Maximum Flavor

Reheating leftover ham needs to be done gently. Heat your oven to 325°F and cover the ham with foil. Warm it for about 10 minutes per pound, adding a bit of liquid to keep it moist. Only slice what you’ll eat to keep the rest fresh.

FAQ

What type of ham works best for this recipe?

Choose a high-quality, bone-in spiral ham for the best taste and texture. A fully cooked, pre-sliced ham ensures even cooking. It also makes glazing easier between slices.

Can I substitute the bourbon in the glaze?

You can swap bourbon with apple or orange juice, or more maple syrup. But bourbon gives a unique flavor. For a non-alcoholic version, bourbon-flavored extract works well.

How long should I bake the ham?

Bake a pre-cooked ham for 10-14 minutes per pound at 325°F (165°C). For an 8-10 pound ham, bake for 1.5 to 2 hours. Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to reach 140°F (60°C).

How do I prevent the ham from drying out?

Keep the ham moist by covering it with foil most of the time. Remove the foil for the last 30 minutes to caramelize the glaze. Baste the ham with the glaze to add moisture and flavor.

How long can I store leftover ham?

Store refrigerated ham for 3-4 days in an airtight container or plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months. Cool the ham completely before storing and reheat well before serving.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the glaze 3-4 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat it gently before applying to the ham.

What are the best side dishes to serve with this ham?

Serve with roasted sweet potatoes, green bean casserole, scalloped potatoes, or a fresh winter salad. The ham’s sweet and savory flavors complement both roasted veggies and creamy sides.

Is this recipe suitable for other holidays beside Christmas?

Definitely! This Bourbon Brown Sugar Baked Ham is great for Easter, Thanksgiving, New Year’s, or any big family gathering. Its flavor is versatile and pleases crowds all year.

Can I use a different type of sugar in the glaze?

Brown sugar is best for its rich flavor, but you can try other sugars. Dark brown sugar adds a deeper taste, while light brown or white sugar with molasses works too.

How do I know when the glaze is at the right consistency?

The glaze should coat the back of a spoon but pour easily. If you make a path with your finger, it should stay clear. This takes about 10-15 minutes of simmering.

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