When the holidays roll around or family gatherings are on the horizon, there’s something undeniably enchanting about the thought of a beautifully glazed ham gracing the table. The moment I first tasted a Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham, I was captivated by the unexpected burst of citrus mingling with the warmth of spices and the rich sweetness of honey and brown sugar.
This dish not only looks like a showstopper—it’s surprisingly simple to prepare, even for those busy weeknights when you want to impress without the stress. The sizzle of the honey glaze caramelizing under the broiler creates a tantalizing aroma that fills the house, promising a feast that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Join me in crafting this delightful recipe that promises to be the highlight of your meal, turning every bite into a celebration of flavor!
Why will you love this Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham?
Irresistible flavor: The blend of honey, bourbon, and spices creates a taste that’s both sweet and savory, making your taste buds dance with joy.
Effortless elegance: Impress your guests without the complexity—this dish requires minimal effort for maximum flavor payoff.
Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this ham brings a touch of festivity to your table.
One-pan convenience: Easy cleanup is a breeze as you prepare everything in one baking dish.
Crowd-pleaser: With ten servings, this recipe is perfect for gatherings, ensuring no one leaves the table hungry.
This dish is a fantastic way to elevate your cooking, so make sure to try it out and impress your loved ones!
Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham Ingredients
For the Ham
• Spiral Ham – 1 lb per person, ensuring everyone enjoys a generous portion.
• Chicken Broth – 1 cup adds moisture and a savory base for the glaze.
For the Glaze
• Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice – 1 cup for a vibrant citrus flavor that complements the bourbon.
• Brown Sugar – 1½ cups provides rich sweetness, balancing the tang of the orange.
• Honey – 1 cup enhances the glaze’s stickiness and brings warmth to the dish.
• Butter – 4 tbsps for creating a luscious, velvety sauce that clings to the ham.
• Bourbon or Rum – 1/8 cup adds depth with its smoky notes; choose bourbon for an authentic touch!
For the Spices
• Ground Allspice – 1 tsp introduces a warm complexity to the flavor profile.
• Cinnamon – 1 tsp adds a comforting, familiar scent that warms the heart.
• Ground Ginger – 1 tsp brings a slight zing that brightens the overall taste.
• Ground Clove – 1 tsp infuses a deep aromatic quality, enhancing the festive feel of the ham.
For the Garnish
• Oranges Sliced – 2 oranges for a beautiful presentation and extra fruity zest on the table.
This Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham is meant to turn your gatherings into cherished memories with every bite!
How to Make Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham
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Preheat your oven to 300°F. This gentle heat will help keep the ham juicy while allowing the flavors of the glaze to develop beautifully.
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Place the spiral ham in a large baking dish and pour in the chicken broth. Add the orange slices to the bottom of the pan, then cover it tightly with foil to lock in the moisture.
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Cook the ham in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, or until it’s heated through and steam is emerging from under the foil—this means it’s perfectly tender.
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Combine orange juice, brown sugar, butter, honey, spices, and bourbon in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture reduces slightly, becoming syrupy and aromatic.
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Remove the ham from the oven and pour half of the glaze over the top. Allow it to bake for an additional 15 minutes, letting the flavors infuse.
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Broil the ham on high for about 5 minutes, or until the glaze is bubbling and caramelized to a golden brown, creating that irresistible shiny finish.
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Serve the ham with the remaining orange bourbon glaze honey sauce drizzled on top for an extra burst of flavor.
Optional: Garnish with additional orange slices to enhance the presentation and add freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham
Fridge: Store leftover ham in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: Wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a 325°F oven until warmed through; add a splash of orange juice to keep it moist.
Leftover Uses: Incorporate any remaining Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham into sandwiches or salads to prevent waste and enjoy the delightful flavors longer!
Expert Tips for Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham
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Choose Quality Ham: Opt for a high-quality spiral ham for the best flavor and texture. Avoid pre-sliced or overly processed options to ensure juiciness.
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Adjust Sweetness: Taste the glaze before pouring it over the ham. If it’s too sweet, add a splash more orange juice to balance the flavors in your Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham.
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Watch the Broil: Keep a close eye while broiling; it can go from perfectly caramelized to burnt quickly. The goal is a glossy finish without overdoing it.
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Rest the Ham: Allow the ham to rest for about 10 minutes after baking before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a moist and tender serving.
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Use Leftovers Wisely: If there’s any ham left, enjoy it in sandwiches or salads the next day—it’s so delicious, you’ll want to savor it longer!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham ahead of time is a fantastic way to streamline your meal planning, especially when entertaining. You can prepare the glaze up to 3 days in advance by combining orange juice, brown sugar, butter, honey, spices, and bourbon in a saucepan and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The spiral ham can also be seasoned with chicken broth and orange slices up to 24 hours before cooking, simply covering it tightly with foil in the fridge to maintain its moisture. When you’re ready to serve, cook the ham as directed and warm the glaze on the stove before basting the ham. This method ensures that your ham remains just as delicious, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests while still delivering an impressive feast!
Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham Variations
Feel free to mix things up and make this dish your own with these exciting twists.
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Maple Glaze: Swap honey with pure maple syrup for a deliciously different sweetness. The rich flavor pairs beautifully with the spices.
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Citrus Mix: Use a blend of grapefruit and lemon juice instead of orange for a tangy, zesty kick. This will brighten the glaze and add complexity.
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Spicy Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze for a delightful heat that contrasts the sweetness beautifully. It’s a surprising layer of flavor!
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Pineapple Twist: Substitute half of the orange juice with pineapple juice for a tropical flair. The sweet and tart combo takes your ham to a whole new level!
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh rosemary or thyme into the glaze for an aromatic undertone. These herbs elevate the flavor profile, creating a delightful herbaceous note.
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Gluten-Free: Ensure your bourbon and broth are gluten-free for a safe adaptation for celiac friends. There are plenty of great brands available that fit the bill.
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Brown Sugar Alternative: Use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute to make this glaze a bit healthier without compromising on taste. Enjoy the same rich flavor with fewer calories!
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Honey Replacement: For a vegan twist, replace honey with agave nectar. It provides a similar sweetness and sticks beautifully to the ham.
Let your creativity soar, and make this Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham a reflection of your own culinary style!
What to Serve with Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham?
Nothing complements a luscious ham quite like a medley of sides that excite the palate and elevate your meal.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery goodness that pairs beautifully with the sweet glaze, absorbing all those delightful flavors.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy and caramelized, they offer a perfect balance to the savory-sweet ham while providing a satisfying texture contrast.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness enhances the glaze on the ham, creating a harmonious flavor profile that feels festive.
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Cranberry Sauce: The tartness cuts through the richness of the ham, providing a refreshing zing that wakes up every bite.
For a full experience, consider pairing the ham with a crisp salad. A refreshing citrus salad with mixed greens, feta cheese, and a light vinaigrette adds brightness and freshness to your plate.
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Sparkling Apple Cider: A delightful non-alcoholic option that beautifully complements the flavors of the ham while offering a festive fizz.
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Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: For dessert, this classic brings tropical sweetness and a tender crumb, rounding out your meal with a nostalgic touch.
Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose a spiral ham?
When selecting a spiral ham, aim for a high-quality option that is fully cooked and labeled as “bone-in” for better flavor and texture. Look for fresh hams with no dark spots or signs of spoilage. Ideally, go for about 1 lb per person to ensure your guests enjoy generous servings.
How should I store leftover Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham?
Absolutely! Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, storing it in the freezer, where it can last for up to 3 months while maintaining its delicious flavors.
Can I freeze Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham? How do I do it?
Yes, you can freeze the ham! Follow these steps:
- Allow the ham to cool completely after cooking.
- Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to eliminate air exposure.
- Next, wrap it again in aluminum foil for extra protection.
- Label the package with the date and freeze it.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat at 325°F until warmed through.
What should I do if my glaze is too runny?
If your glaze turns out too runny, don’t fret! Simply continue to simmer it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency. This can take about 5-10 minutes. The goal is to have a nice syrupy glaze that clings beautifully to the ham.
Are there any dietary considerations for Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham?
For those with dietary restrictions, consider offering an alcohol-free version. You can simply replace bourbon with apple juice or additional orange juice for a non-alcoholic glaze. Additionally, check with guests about allergies related to honey or specific spices to ensure everyone can enjoy this flavorful dish!
How do I reheat leftover Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham?
To reheat the ham, first thaw it in the refrigerator if frozen. Preheat your oven to 325°F. Place the ham in a baking dish, adding a splash of orange juice or broth to keep it moist. Cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out, and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Serve with any remaining glaze for that extra punch of flavor!
Irresistible Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham for Your Next Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 300°F.
- Place the spiral ham in a large baking dish and pour in the chicken broth. Add the orange slices to the bottom of the pan, then cover it tightly with foil.
- Cook the ham for 20-30 minutes, until heated through.
- Combine orange juice, brown sugar, butter, honey, spices, and bourbon in a saucepan over medium heat until syrupy.
- Remove the ham and pour half of the glaze over it. Bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Broil on high for about 5 minutes until caramelized.
- Serve with remaining glaze drizzled on top.