Delicious Honey Baked Ham That Will Wow Your Guests

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Kacper Recipes Team

Every holiday season, our home is filled with the irresistible aroma of Honey Baked Ham, instantly transforming the atmosphere into one of warmth and celebration. There s something truly special about slicing into a perfectly baked ham, its juices glistening with a rich, sweet glaze that invites everyone to gather around the table. This dish brings together tender, spiral-cut slices of ham infused with smoky hickory goodness, all topped with a glossy concoction of honey, brown sugar, and warm spices that creates an exquisite balance of flavors.

I discovered this delightful recipe after a family gathering where my aunt brought her famous version, and I knew I had to add my twist to it. Whether it s for a festive feast or a cozy Sunday dinner, this Honey Baked Ham is not only simple to prepare but also a surefire way to impress your guests. With straightforward steps and an opportunity to customize the glaze to your taste, you ll create a centerpiece that makes every occasion feel special. Let s bring joy to your holiday table with this unforgettable dish that s bound to become a beloved tradition!

Why is Honey Baked Ham a Must-Try?

Irresistible aroma: Your kitchen will be filled with mouthwatering scents that make it hard to resist gathering the family around the table.
Minimal effort: With just a few simple steps, you ll have a stunning centerpiece ready for any occasion.
Flavor explosion: The combination of sweet honey and warm spices creates a unique taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Customizable glaze: Adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences, whether you prefer a citrusy hint or extra spices. Pair this dish with sides like roasted vegetables for the perfect meal.

Honey Baked Ham Ingredients

For the Ham

• Fully Cooked Spiral Sliced Ham (8-10 lb) Main protein source; tender and ready to heat. Look for ham without added water for best flavor.

For the Glaze

• Unsalted Butter (2 Tbsp) Enhances richness in glaze. Can substitute with olive oil or margarine for a dairy-free version.
• Honey (1/2 cup) Provides sweetness and essential flavor for the glaze. Maple syrup can work in a pinch, but will alter taste.
• Light Brown Sugar (1/2 cup, packed) Adds sweetness and depth to the glaze. Dark brown sugar can be used for a stronger molasses flavor.
• Dijon Mustard (1 Tbsp) Offers tang to balance sweetness in the glaze. Yellow mustard is a milder substitute.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper (3/4 tsp) Offers spice and warmth. White pepper may be used for a milder alternative.
• Ground Cinnamon (1/4 tsp) Adds warmth and contrast to sweetness. Nutmeg can be considered for different flavor notes.
• Ground Ginger (1/4 tsp) Enhances the spice complexity of the glaze. Fresh ginger works well if grated.
• Ground Cloves (1/8 tsp) Contributes to warming spice flavor. Can omit if preferred or substitute with allspice.
• Fresh Orange Zest (1/2 tsp, optional) Provides a citrusy brightness. Omitting will result in a milder glaze.

How to Make Honey Baked Ham

1. Soak Ham: Begin by covering your ham in plastic or foil. Submerge it in hot water for two 45-minute sessions. This helps bring the ham to room temperature, ensuring even cooking.

2. Preheat Oven: Adjust your oven rack to the lowest position and preheat it to 250 °F (121 °C). This low temperature allows for slow, gentle cooking that enhances the flavors.

3. Prepare Ham: Unwrap your ham and carefully remove any bone cover. Place the ham in an oven bag, tie it securely, and cut slits in the top. This will help maintain moisture during cooking.

4. Bake Ham: Position the ham in a roasting pan and bake it until the internal temperature hits 100 °F (38 °C), which should take around 1 to 1.5 hours. Your ham will start to smell delightful!

5. Make the Glaze: In the final 15 minutes of baking, melt the butter in a saucepan. Mix in the remaining glaze ingredients until the sugar dissolves. Let the mixture cool slightly to thicken.

6. Glaze Ham: Increase your oven temperature to 375 °F (190 °C). Coat the ham with half the glaze and bake it for 5 minutes. Then, apply the remaining glaze and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the glaze to caramelize beautifully.

7. Rest & Serve: Remove the ham from the oven and tent it with foil, letting it rest for 10 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, making every slice tender and flavorful when you carve it up!

Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an added touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Honey Baked Ham Variations

Feel free to experiment and make this delightful dish your own with these fun twists and substitutions!

• No Orange Zest: Skip the zest for a simple yet sweet glaze, allowing the honey and spices to shine.
• Fruit Juice Fusion: Swap honey with a mix of pineapple or apple juice for a refreshing, fruity glaze.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh rosemary or thyme to the glaze for a fragrant herbal note that elevates the ham s flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the glaze for a subtle heat that contrasts nicely with the sweetness.
• Maple Twist: Substitute honey with maple syrup; it adds a unique flavor that pairs beautifully with ham.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the glazed ham before the final bake for a delightful crunchy texture.
• Smoky Flavor: Brush the ham with a few drops of liquid smoke in the glaze for an intense, smoky finish that complements the sweetness.
• Citrus Medley: Add the zest of lemon or lime along with orange to create a cheerful citrus blend that adds brightness to the glaze.

Feel inspired to mix and match these variations to create a Honey Baked Ham that s uniquely yours!

Expert Tips for Honey Baked Ham

• Choose Quality Ham: Always select a ham labeled as natural juices without added water for the best flavor and texture in your Honey Baked Ham.

• Keep it Moist: Using an oven bag helps retain moisture during cooking, ensuring your ham remains juicy rather than drying out.

• Don t Rush Glazing: Allow the glaze to cool slightly before applying; a thicker consistency will adhere better and enhance the caramelization process.

• Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to avoid undercooking or overcooking; the ideal internal temperature for fully heated ham is 140 °F (60 °C).

• Serve with Sides: Pair your Honey Baked Ham with light, fresh sides like a crisp salad or roasted vegetables to create a balanced meal that complements the rich flavors.

How to Store and Freeze Honey Baked Ham

Fridge: Store leftover Honey Baked Ham in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps it moist and ready to enjoy later.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. This helps maintain its delicious flavor.

Reheating: When ready to serve, thaw the ham in the fridge overnight and reheat it gently in the oven at 325 °F (163 °C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.

Portion Control: Consider slicing the ham before freezing for easier, portioned reheating later. This makes serving a breeze during busy days!

What to Serve with Honey Baked Ham?

To complete your meal and elevate the dining experience, consider these delightful pairings that will beautifully complement your Honey Baked Ham.

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture pairs perfectly with the sweet and savory notes of the ham, creating a comforting side that everyone loves.

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These slightly bitter greens, caramelized to perfection, add a lovely crisp contrast to the sweetness of the ham, enhancing the meal s flavor profile.

• Apple Cider Glazed Carrots: The natural sweetness of carrots glazed with apple cider brings a delightful fruitiness that harmonizes well with the rich ham, making for a festive side.

• Crisp Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing crunch to balance the richness of your main dish.

• Garlic Bread Rolls: Soft and warm, these rolls are perfect for mopping up any delicious remnants of your honey glaze and juice on the plate.

• Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds a light, sweet element that contrasts beautifully with the savory ham, providing a refreshing end to the meal.

• Red Wine: A glass of lightly chilled red wine complements the sweetness and spices of the ham, enhancing the overall dining experience.

• Chocolate Cake: This rich dessert rounds off the meal on a sweet note, providing a perfect indulgence after the savory main course.

• Pumpkin Pie: Seasonal and spiced, this classic dessert harmonizes wonderfully, evoking memories of festive gatherings and warm family dinners.

Make Ahead Options

These Honey Baked Ham preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can fully prepare your ham and glaze up to 24 hours in advance. First, complete steps 1-5 (soaking, preheating, preparing, and baking the ham) and let the ham cool completely. Afterward, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it. The glaze can also be made and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the ham gently, glaze it using the final steps (increasing the oven to 375 °F and baking), and enjoy your flavorful Honey Baked Ham just as delicious as if it were freshly made!

Honey Baked Ham Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting a spiral sliced ham?
Absolutely! When selecting a fully cooked spiral sliced ham, always look for one labeled as natural juices without added water. This ensures superior flavor and texture. To help you choose, pick a ham that feels firm and isn t too wet; this means it hasn t been overly processed.

How should I store leftover Honey Baked Ham?
I recommend storing leftover Honey Baked Ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Ensure it s cooled down before sealing it tightly to keep it fresh. If you intend to enjoy it later than that, freezing is a great option!

Can I freeze Honey Baked Ham, and if so, how?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze Honey Baked Ham! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then seal it in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can store it for up to 2 months. When you re ready to use it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently to keep it juicy.

Why does my glaze not stick to the ham?
If your glaze isn t sticking as it should, it might be too thin. To fix this, allow your glaze to cool slightly after cooking it, as a thicker consistency will adhere much better to the ham. Additionally, ensure you re applying it at the right time coating it right before the final bake helps the glaze to caramelize nicely.

Is Honey Baked Ham suitable for pets?
While the ham itself can be safe for pets in small amounts, it often contains honey and spices that may upset their stomachs. It s best to avoid sharing it with them entirely and stick to treats specifically designed for pets. Always keep an eye out for any ingredients that could be harmful, like excessive seasonings.

Can I make this Honey Baked Ham recipe in advance?
Very! You can prepare and glaze your Honey Baked Ham up to one day in advance. Simply cover it and store it in the fridge. When you re ready to impress your guests, reheat it gently in the oven for the best results. This makes hosting less stressful and keeps the flavor intact!