Honey Glazed Baked Ham with a Crispy Caramelized Crust Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To achieve the ultimate caramelized crust, you can turn on the oven broiler for the last 2 to 3 minutes of baking.

If you do this, watch the ham constantly, as the high sugar content in the honey glaze can transition from perfectly caramelized to burnt in a matter of seconds. Keep the oven rack in the middle position to prevent direct contact with the broiler element.

When carving the ham, cut horizontal slices across the grain down to the bone, then cut vertically along the bone to release the slices.

This technique ensures clean, uniform portions and makes the most of the meat. Save the leftover ham bone to flavor future soups, stews, or stocks, as it contains an incredible amount of rich, smoky flavor.

Variations

• Maple Glaze: Replace the honey with maple syrup for a deeper, woodsy sweetness that caramelizes beautifully.
• Spiced Honey Glaze: Stir a pinch of ground cinnamon and cloves into the warm honey before brushing for a festive holiday aroma.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze sliced ham wrapped tightly in foil and placed in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheat

Reheat slices in a baking dish with a splash of water, covered with foil, at 325°F (163°C) until warm.

Allow any leftover ham to cool completely at room temperature for no more than two hours before storing. Place the sliced ham or larger portions in an airtight container, or wrap them tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil.

Store the container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Leftover glaze and pan drippings can be stored in a separate small container to spoon over the meat when reheating.

You can prepare by scoring the ham the night before and keeping it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. The honey can also be measured out ahead of time. When ready to bake, let the ham sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to take the chill off before placing it in the preheated oven.

Serving ideas

Serve the warm, sliced ham on a large platter surrounded by roasted vegetables or fresh herbs for an elegant presentation.

Drizzle the warm pan drippings directly over the sliced meat just before serving to add extra moisture and flavor. Offer additional warm honey glaze on the side in a small pitcher so guests can customize their sweetness.

This sweet and savory ham pairs exceptionally well with classic holiday side dishes. Consider serving it alongside creamy mashed potatoes, roasted green beans, or freshly baked dinner rolls. The contrast between the rich, caramelized crust and savory sides creates a wonderful combination that is sure to satisfy every guest at your table.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Honey Glazed Baked Ham with a Crispy Caramelized Crust

Prep 15 minCook 1 h 30 minRest 15 minTotal 2 hServes 12

Ingredients

• 8 lb fully cooked bone-in ham, scored in a criss-cross pattern
• 1 cup honey

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the fully cooked bone-in ham in a 9x13-inch glass baking dish. Use a sharp knife to score the surface of the ham in a criss-cross diamond pattern, cutting about one-quarter inch deep. Ensure the scoring is even across the top of the ham.
2. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to retain moisture. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, allowing the ham to warm through slowly without drying out. This slow-heating process keeps the meat tender.
3. In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the honey until it becomes thin, fluid, and easy to brush. Do not let the honey boil or scorch, as this will ruin its natural sweetness. Remove from heat immediately once warmed.
4. Remove the ham from the oven and carefully discard the aluminum foil. Spoon or brush half of the prepared warm honey over the scored surface of the ham, ensuring the sweet glaze gets deep into the cuts.
5. Return the ham to the oven uncovered. Bake for another 15 to 20 minutes, basting with the remaining honey and pan juices every 10 minutes, until the crust is caramelized and bubbling. Watch closely to prevent the sugars from burning.
6. Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest in the baking dish for 15 minutes. Transfer to a cutting board, slice through the caramelized crust, and serve warm with the rich pan drippings.

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

285

Protein

25 g

Carbohydrates

23 g

Fat

7 g

Fiber

0 g

Sugar

23 g

Sodium

1100 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.