Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this irresistible Sweet Orange Glazed Baked Ham! Imagine a perfectly cooked ham with a glistening, tangy-sweet glaze that will make your guests' mouths water the moment they walk into the kitchen. This show-stopping centerpiece is not just a meal, but a memorable dining experience that combines classic American comfort food with a burst of citrusy elegance.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 10 servings
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked ham (5-7 pounds)
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove the ham from refrigeration and allow it to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even heating.
- Place the ham fat-side up in a large roasting pan. If the ham has a thick fat layer, score the surface in a diamond pattern using a sharp knife, creating shallow cuts about 1/4 inch deep. This helps the glaze penetrate and creates an attractive presentation.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together orange juice, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Brush approximately half of the orange glaze over the entire surface of the ham, ensuring even coverage. Reserve the remaining glaze for basting during cooking.
- Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning. Place the ham in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
- Every 20-25 minutes, remove the ham from the oven and baste with additional glaze, rotating the pan to ensure even heating and glazing.
- During the last 15-20 minutes of cooking, remove the foil to allow the ham's surface to caramelize and develop a rich, golden-brown color. Continue basting with the remaining glaze.
- Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.
- Transfer the ham to a serving platter, garnish with fresh orange slices or herbs if desired, and carve into thin slices against the grain.
- Serve warm and enjoy the sweet and tangy orange-glazed ham with your favorite side dishes.
Tips
- Room Temperature Magic: Always let your ham sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even heating and prevent dry edges.
- Scoring Technique: Create those beautiful diamond-shaped cuts in the fat layer to help the glaze penetrate deeper and create a stunning presentation.
- Glaze Like a Pro: Baste frequently during cooking to build layers of flavor and achieve that gorgeous caramelized exterior.
- Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your ham reaches the perfect internal temperature of 140°F without overcooking.
- Resting Matters: Let the ham rest for 15-20 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, guaranteeing a moist and flavorful result.
- Garnish Bonus: Elevate your presentation by garnishing with fresh orange slices or herbs for that extra touch of elegance.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
