Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham

Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham brings a beautiful mix of sweet and savory flavors that create a show-stopping centerpiece for any holiday gathering or family dinner. The combination of orange marmalade and bourbon elevates this dish, transforming a classic ham into something extra special. It boasts a sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, drawing everyone to the table with its rich aroma.

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Many people associate ham with dry or overly salty flavors, but not this one. The juicy, succulent meat pairs perfectly with the tangy orange and the sweet warmth from the bourbon, creating an unforgettable flavor experience with every bite. Whether it’s the festive season or a summer barbecue, this Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham is sure to please the crowd. It’s a recipe you’ll want to return to time and again, not just for its robust flavors but also for the delightful conversations it sparks around the dinner table. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple & Quick: With just 15 minutes of prep and a few easy steps, you’ll have a stunning ham ready to impress.
• Irresistible Flavor: The unique blend of orange, bourbon, and maple syrup gives this dish a mouthwatering sweet and savory profile.
• Eye-Catching Appeal: The glossy glaze creates a dazzling presentation that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
• Flexible Serving: Perfect for holiday feasts, potlucks, or even as a cozy Sunday dinner with family.
• Feed a Crowd: Generously serves 24, making it great for gatherings of all sizes and scales.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 3/4 cup orange marmalade: This adds the dish’s signature sweetness and a lovely citrus zest. Feel free to substitute with apricot preserves if needed.
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup: This contributes a rich, earthy sweetness that enhances the orange flavor. Do not use imitation syrup for the best results.
• 1/4 cup whole-grain Dijon mustard: It provides a tangy kick to balance the sweetness, creating a flavor profile that’s truly addictive.
• 1/4 cup bourbon: Adds depth and complexity to the glaze. For non-alcoholic options, you could use apple juice, although the flavor will differ.
• 2 tbsp lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice helps cut through the richness, providing brightness to the glaze. Bottled lemon juice works, but fresh is better.
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger: Just a hint of warmth and spice adds character to the glaze. Fresh ginger can be used for an extra punch.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: To season the ham perfectly and enhance all the other flavors.
• 1 bone-in half ham (about 6-10 lbs): A bone-in ham is ideal for flavor and juiciness. A spiral-cut ham can be used but remember to adjust the scoring.

How to Make Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham

1. Preheat the Oven: Move the oven rack to the lower third portion and preheat to 325°F. To make cleanup a breeze, line the bottom of a roasting pan with aluminum foil and set aside.
2. Prepare the Ham: Remove the ham from its packaging, and pat dry with a paper towel if it’s overly wet.
3. Make the Glaze: In a mixing bowl, add 3/4 cup orange marmalade, 1/4 cup pure maple syrup, 1/4 cup whole-grain Dijon mustard, 1/4 cup bourbon, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1/2 tsp ground ginger, and salt and black pepper to taste. Whisk everything together until well combined, and set aside.
4. Place the Ham in Roasting Pan: Carefully place the bone-in half ham, flat side down, on the roasting rack so that the fatty side is facing up.
5. Score the Ham: Gently score the surface of the ham in a criss-cross pattern, allowing the glaze to seep in (Note: Skip this step if you’re using a spiral-cut ham, as it will absorb the glaze just fine without scoring). Brush about 1/2 cup of the prepared glaze all over the scored ham to infuse it with flavor.
6. Cover with Foil: Loosely cover the ham with aluminum foil, ensuring it stays moist while baking.
7. Bake the Ham: Bake in your preheated oven for about 2 to 2.5 hours. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 125-130°F.
8. Prepare for Glazing: Once the ham reaches the desired temperature, carefully remove the roasting pan from the oven and peel back or remove the foil from the ham.
9. Increase Oven Temperature: Set your oven temperature to 425°F to allow for a glorious caramelization.
10. Glaze the Ham: Brush 6 tbsp of the glaze over the ham, then bake for an additional 20 minutes. Every 6-7 minutes, reapply another 6 tbsp of glaze, ensuring the ham gets beautifully coated and develops a deep, rich color.
11. Watch Closely: Keep an eye on the ham to make sure the glaze doesn’t burn but instead turns a gorgeous gold hue.
12. Let it Rest: Carefully remove the roasting pan from the oven and transfer the ham to a large cutting board. Tent the ham loosely with foil and let it rest for about 20 minutes before slicing into it. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring perfectly tender slices.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover ham in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to five days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices wrapped tightly in foil or a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply place the ham slices in a covered dish in the oven at 325°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. The texture might change slightly, but refreshing it with a drizzle of extra glaze or a bit of broth can help retain moisture.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

• Be sure to remove excess moisture from the ham, as this will help the glaze to stick better.
• Always score your ham for better flavor absorption unless it’s a spiral-cut ham; this makes a significant difference!
• Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking; transferring your ham to a cutting board too early could lead to juicy losses.
• If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you can prepare the glaze the day before and just bake the ham the next day for fresh flavors.
• Pair with seasonal sides like roasted vegetables or a crisp salad for the perfect meal balance.

Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham offers a delightful dish that marries traditional recipes with bold flavors, making it perfect for any season. Don’t hesitate to put your own twist on it—perhaps with a hint more bourbon or a different citrus blend. This is your opportunity to create something uniquely delicious. Enjoy the heady aromas, succulent slices, and the smiles you’ll see as everyone fills their plates!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different type of ham?

Absolutely! While bone-in half ham is recommended for its flavor and juiciness, you can also use spiral-cut ham, boneless ham, or even a smoked ham. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as pre-cooked hams will heat differently.

How do I know when the ham is done cooking?

Using an instant-read thermometer is the best way to ensure your ham is perfectly cooked. You’ll want the internal temperature to reach between 125°F and 130°F during the first baking phase, and any additional baking with the glaze should ideally be around 140°F.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the glaze a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it. Just remember to give it a good stir before applying it to the ham.

What sides pair well with Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham?

There are numerous delicious sides to consider! Roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole, or a vibrant salad are excellent choices. You can even serve it alongside your favorite homemade biscuits for a delightful meal!

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