Bourbon Marmalade and Ginger Glazed Ham for Festive Gatherings

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Kacper Recipes Team

There s something fantastically cozy about the scent of bourbon mingling with sweet marmalade and ginger wafting through the house. I discovered this brilliant combination on a rainy afternoon while searching for a unique twist on a classic dish. As I glazed a pre-cooked leg of ham, the anticipation grew I knew I was in for a culinary gem that would elevate any holiday gathering.

This bourbon marmalade and ginger glazed ham isn t just about taste; it s about the visuals the rich, caramelized exterior beckoning your guests, promising a tender bite underneath. Perfect for those who yearn for homemade meals bursting with flavor rather than the monotonous fast food options. Join me as I guide you through crafting this show-stopping centerpiece that s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. It s time to impress with a dish that not only sings of simplicity but also leaves everyone raving long after the dinner plates have been cleared!

Why choose bourbon marmalade and ginger glazed ham?

Unique flavor explosion: The marriage of bourbon, marmalade, and ginger creates an extraordinary taste experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Visually stunning: With its glossy, caramelized finish, this ham is a feast for the eyes, making it the ideal centerpiece for your festive gatherings.

Simple yet sophisticated: This easy-to-follow recipe allows home cooks of any skill level to craft a gourmet dish without the stress.

Perfect for leftovers: Enjoy the rich, flavorful meat in sandwiches or salads, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

Crowd-pleaser: Impress family and friends with a deliciously unique twist on traditional ham that s perfect for any occasion.

Holiday delight: Whether it s Christmas or Easter, this festive dish is sure to become a beloved tradition in your home.

Ingredients for bourbon marmalade and ginger glazed ham

For the Ham

• Whole leg of ham with bone in The star of the dish, providing a savory base; ensure it s pre-cooked and pre-cured for ease.

For the Glaze

• Bourbon Infuses a warm, rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet elements of the glaze.
• Marmalade Adds sweetness and a citrusy zing, making it perfect for achieving that glossy finish. Substituting with orange preserve can also work well!
• Fresh ginger Provides a zesty kick to complement the sweetness; feel free to adjust to taste.
• Honey Enhances the glaze s stickiness and sweetness; maple syrup can be used as an alternative if desired.
• Mustard (Dijon or yellow) Offers a tangy balance to the sweetness of the glaze. Brown mustard can add a richer depth.
• Brown sugar Helps create a caramelized crust; white sugar works too but with less complexity.

Optional Enhancements

• Cloves For aromatic depth, cloves can be added; however, they are optional. You might substitute with allspice if you prefer!
• Cayenne pepper A pinch can add a surprising kick, stimulating the taste buds!
• Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme) Sprinkling these on top before baking can provide a delightful contrast to the sweet glaze.

How to Make Bourbon Marmalade and Ginger Glazed Ham

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325 °F (163 °C). This ensures an even and thorough cooking process, making your ham beautifully warm and perfectly glazed.

2. Score the ham: Using a sharp knife, carefully score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This allows the glaze to penetrate deeper, enhancing the flavor and resulting in a gorgeous caramelization.

3. Prepare the glaze: In a mixing bowl, combine bourbon, marmalade, fresh ginger, honey, mustard, and brown sugar. Stir until well mixed. The aromas will be heavenly just wait until you taste it!

4. Brush the glaze: Generously brush the prepared glaze over the surface of the scored ham. Make sure to get it into the cuts as well, ensuring an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful finish.

5. Bake the ham: Place the ham in a roasting pan and bake it uncovered for about 1.5 hours. Baste the ham every 20 minutes with more glaze for that sticky, caramelized look and flavor.

6. Let it rest: When the internal temperature reaches 140 °F (60 °C), remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for about 20-30 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your ham juicy and flavorful.

Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra layer of flavor and a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Bourbon Marmalade and Ginger Glazed Ham

• Rest Time Matters: Allow the ham to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. This promotes even cooking and keeps the meat juicy.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: Check for doneness with a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 140 °F (60 °C) for perfectly warm ham without drying it out.

• Mind the Glaze: When basting with the glaze, keep an eye on it towards the end of cooking; sugars can burn quickly. Adjust the heat if necessary to prevent charring.

• Score Deeply: Make sure to score adequately deep into the ham s surface. This helps the bourbon marmalade and ginger glaze penetrate better for a richer flavor profile.

• Leftover Storage: After your festive gathering, refrigerate leftover ham in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Enjoy it cold in sandwiches or warm it up in a skillet!

• Get Creative: Don t hesitate to experiment with the glaze ingredients. Adding spices like cayenne or fresh herbs can elevate your bourbon marmalade and ginger glazed ham to new heights!

Make Ahead Options

These Bourbon Marmalade and Ginger Glazed Ham preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time on festive meals! You can prepare the glaze up to 24 hours in advance simply mix the bourbon, marmalade, ginger, honey, mustard, and brown sugar, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. The ham itself can be scored and seasoned a few hours before cooking, helping the flavors meld together beautifully. When you re ready to serve, just brush the glaze on the ham, bake it for about 1.5 hours, and enjoy the same delicious results as if it were freshly made! This makes entertaining a breeze, allowing you more time to enjoy the company of your loved ones.

Variations & Substitutions for bourbon marmalade and ginger glazed ham

Feel free to get creative with this delightful dish by customizing it to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs!

• Vegan-Friendly: Substitute the ham with a plant-based roast; ensure to adjust cooking timing accordingly for a perfect glazed finish.

• Fruit Punch: Swap marmalade for your favorite fruit preserves like apricot or cherry for a fruity twist that brightens the flavors.

• Zingy Upgrade: Add a splash of lime or orange juice to the glaze for an added citrus kick that will invigorate every bite!

• Heat Lover s Delight: Incorporate fresh or dried jalapeños into the glaze for a surprising and delightful spicy twist, perfect for adventurous eaters.

• Nutty Texture: Sprinkle crushed pecans or walnuts over the glazed ham before baking for an additional layer of crunch and great flavor contrast.

• Sweet & Spicy: Mix in a teaspoon of chili powder with the glaze to introduce a warm heat that perfectly balances the sweet flavors.

• Citrus Infusion: Consider adding a bit of zest from lemon or orange to the glaze; this little tweak can amplify the overall flavor profile.

• Sweetener Swap: If preferred, use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a less processed sweetness that still caramelizes beautifully.

Exploring these variations allows you to make this dish uniquely yours while still celebrating the original flavors and essence of bourbon marmalade and ginger glazed ham!

What to Serve with Bourbon Marmalade and Ginger Glazed Ham?

This dish is a stunning centerpiece, inviting a symphony of flavors to your holiday table.

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery richness of mashed potatoes complements the sweet and zesty notes of the ham perfectly.

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness offers a delightful contrast to the ham s sweetness, creating a well-rounded plate.

• Honey-Glazed Carrots: These naturally sweet carrots will echo the glazed ham while adding a lovely pop of color to your table.

• Cranberry Sauce: The tanginess of cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of the ham, bringing a refreshing brightness to every bite.

• Garlic Bread: Toasty, buttery garlic bread is an inviting addition, perfect for soaking up any leftover glaze on your plate.

• Fresh Garden Salad: Light and crisp, a salad featuring mixed greens and vinaigrette provides balance and freshness that harmonizes beautifully with the rich ham.

For the perfect way to end your meal, consider serving a Classic Pumpkin Pie. Its warm spices and creamy texture will harmonize nostalgically with the festive experience you ve created.

How to Store and Freeze Bourbon Marmalade and Ginger Glazed Ham

Fridge: Refrigerate leftover glazed ham in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Be sure to cover tightly to keep the flavors intact.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the ham in plastic wrap and then foil or place in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing taste quality.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy your bourbon marmalade and ginger glazed ham, reheat in the oven at 325 °F (163 °C) until warmed through, basting with extra glaze if desired for moisture.

Avoid Room Temperature: Always avoid leaving the ham at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain freshness and safety.

Bourbon Marmalade and Ginger Glazed Ham Recipe FAQs

What type of ham should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely, using a whole leg of pre-cooked and pre-cured ham is essential for this recipe. This ensures you have a stable foundation for the savory and sweet flavors of the bourbon marmalade and ginger glaze. Make sure to choose a quality ham for the best taste!

How should I store leftover glazed ham?
To store leftover bourbon marmalade and ginger glazed ham, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Just remember to cover it tightly to lock in those delicious flavors!

Can I freeze leftover ham?
Yes, you can! Wrap the leftover ham in plastic wrap and then cover it with foil or put it into a freezer-safe bag. This way, your bourbon marmalade and ginger glazed ham can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing quality. When you re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat it in the oven at 325 °F (163 °C).

How do I reheat the ham without drying it out?
To reheat your ham while keeping it moist, preheat your oven to 325 °F (163 °C). Place the ham in a roasting pan covered with foil to retain moisture. You can also baste it with extra glaze before reheating. Heat it until thoroughly warmed, about 20-30 minutes, depending on the size.

What should I do if my glaze burns?
If you notice your glaze starting to burn, don t panic! Simply cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil to protect it from the heat. You can also reduce the oven temperature slightly to allow for even cooking without the sugars burning.

Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
It s important to be mindful of dietary restrictions! The bourbon marmalade and ginger glazed ham contains gluten and may be high in sodium. If cooking for guests with allergies, be sure to check the ingredients in your marmalade and mustard. You can also adjust the types of sweeteners used based on individual preferences.