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.

Bourbon Brown Sugar Baked Ham: 9 Easy Steps for Perfect Results

Name: Bourbon Brown Sugar Baked Ham Recipe - Perfect Holiday Centerpiece
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 2 h 30 min
Total time: 3 h
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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; Ground cloves (optional); Cinnamon (optional); Fresh thyme (optional); Orange zest (optional)

Description

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Ground cloves (optional)

Cinnamon (optional)

Fresh thyme (optional)

Orange zest (optional)

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Instructions

1. Take the ham out of the fridge 30 minutes before baking to bring to room temperature

2. Pat the ham dry with paper towels

3. Score the ham’s surface in a diamond pattern with a sharp knife

4. Place the ham in a roasting pan with the fat side up

5. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C)

6. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup bourbon, 1 cup light brown sugar, 2 cinnamon sticks, and 1/4 cup yellow mustard

7. Simmer the glaze ingredients for 15-20 minutes until it thickens slightly

8. Brush the ham with mustard and sprinkle brown sugar on the surface

9. Cover the ham with aluminum foil and bake for about 2 hours

10. Baste the ham with the bourbon glaze every 15-20 minutes during cooking

11. Remove foil for the last 30 minutes to caramelize the glaze

12. Cook until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C)

13. Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute

Notes

Choose a high-quality, bone-in spiral ham for the best taste and texture

Keep the ham moist by covering it with foil most of the cooking time

The glaze can be prepared 3-4 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator

Store leftover ham in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2 months

For reheating, use 325°F oven for about 10 minutes per pound with foil covering

This recipe works perfectly for Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving, or any special gathering

Prep Time: 30
Cook Time: 150
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 6 oz
Calories: 320
Sugar: 28g
Sodium: 1840mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 85mg