I once found myself in the middle of a bustling holiday kitchen, surrounded by laughter and the comforting aroma of spices as family members prepped for our annual feast. Amidst the chaos, a stunning Copycat Honey Baked Ham stood as the star of the table, its warm, sweet scent drawing us all in. This recipe is a lifesaver for anyone looking to recreate that magic at home. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it’s also adaptable—whether you prefer the oven, a slow cooker, or your trusty Instant Pot, this dish will blissfully transform your gatherings. With its sticky glaze and tender meat, this ham becomes the ultimate centerpiece that promises to impress your loved ones. Are you ready to bring the taste of holiday nostalgia to your home? Let’s dive into the details of this delightful dish!
Why is this ham recipe a must-try?
Budget-Friendly: This Copycat Honey Baked Ham is a wallet-friendly way to serve an impressive dish at your holiday gathering.
Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you’re a fan of traditional oven roasting or prefer the convenience of a slow cooker or Instant Pot, this recipe has got you covered for any occasion.
Irresistible Glaze: The sticky honey and butter glaze brings a mouthwatering sweetness and a gorgeous caramelized finish that your guests will rave about—just like the classic favorite!
Time-Saving Options: With easy preparations and various cooking methods, you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your family and friends.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Its tender, juicy texture and robust flavor ensure that this ham will be the star attraction on your table, leaving everyone wanting seconds!
For more delicious recipes, check out our Soft Baked Maple donuts or Baked French Dip biscuits for your next gathering!
Copycat Honey Baked Ham Ingredients
• Create your masterpiece with these essential items!
For the Ham
• Spiral-cut ham – An 8 lbs bone-in or boneless ham makes for the perfect base; look for “pre-cooked” for convenience.
For the Glaze
• Butter – 2 tablespoons melted for richness and helping caramelize the glaze. Margarine can be used as a substitute if needed.
• Honey – 1/3 cup provides essential sweet notes for that signature glaze; maple syrup is a delightful alternative for a unique twist.
• Granulated Sugar – 1 1/2 cups for the spice mixture enhances the overall sweetness; brown sugar can deepen the flavors.
For the Spice Mixture
• Nutmeg – 1/2 teaspoon adds warm, spicy notes to the glaze; feel free to adjust based on your taste preferences.
• Cloves – 1/2 teaspoon, another aromatic spice to elevate the flavor profile; modify according to preference.
• Cinnamon – 1/2 teaspoon to bring in warm undertones; blend with other spices for a robust taste.
• Onion Powder – 1/2 teaspoon introduces savory flavor to harmonize the sweetness; use garlic powder for an interesting twist.
• Paprika – 1/4 teaspoon complements the flavors beautifully; adjust according to availability and preference.
• Ginger – 1/4 teaspoon for a warm spice note; can be omitted if preferred.
• Allspice – 1/4 teaspoon to round out the flavor profile; serves as a great addition or substitute if you want a spicy kick.
Embrace the joy of cooking and note how these ingredients make your Copycat Honey Baked Ham a delightful highlight for any festive gathering!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Copycat Honey Baked Ham
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C) and positioning the rack in the lower third. While the oven warms, line a large roasting pan with heavy-duty foil and apply a light coating of cooking spray. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking, making it easier to serve your mouthwatering Copycat Honey Baked Ham later.
Step 2: Place the Ham
Once preheated, carefully place your spiral-cut ham in the prepared roasting pan with the flat side facing down. This allows the juices to soak into the meat as it cooks. Cover the ham loosely with more foil, ensuring it’s sealed enough to retain moisture throughout the cooking process.
Step 3: Mix the Glaze
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and honey, stirring until well blended. This delicious mixture is essential for creating the sweet, shiny glaze on your ham. Using a brush or spoon, evenly coat the entire surface of the ham with the glaze, ensuring every inch is covered to achieve that tantalizing sticky finish.
Step 4: Add Water and Bake
Pour 1 cup of water into the bottom of the roasting pan to create steam during baking, which helps keep the ham moist. Cover the pan tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 2.5 hours, or roughly 20 minutes per pound. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) for perfectly warm and tender ham.
Step 5: Prepare the Spice Mixture
While the ham is baking, mix the granulated sugar, nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon, onion powder, paprika, ginger, and allspice in a bowl. This spice blend will enhance your Copycat Honey Baked Ham’s flavor and create a delightful crust as it finishes cooking. Set the mixture aside for later use.
Step 6: Apply the Spices
Once the ham has finished its baking time, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle half of the spice mixture generously over the surface. Ensure that you only cover the top so it can sparkle nicely when broiled. This will infuse the savory notes of the spices into the ham as it crisps up.
Step 7: Broil for Caramelization
Set your oven to broil and place the ham back in, monitoring closely as it caramelizes. Broil for about 5-10 minutes, watching for the glaze to bubble and turn a beautiful golden brown. This step makes the outside sticky and nicely crisp, giving the ham an irresistible texture.
Step 8: Glaze and Final Broil
In a small saucepan, combine the remaining spice mixture with any drippings from the pan, simmering the blend until it thickens slightly. Drizzle this glaze over the ham for an extra layer of flavor just before a final quick broil for 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning, as the sugars can caramelize quickly.
Step 9: Rest and Serve
Once caramelized beautifully, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute for tender, moist slices. Your Copycat Honey Baked Ham is now ready to shine on your table as a delicious centerpiece!
Make Ahead Options
These Copycat Honey Baked Ham preparations are perfect for busy cooks who want to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the ham up to 24 hours in advance by glazingly brushing it with the butter and honey mixture and then securely covering it in the refrigerator. The spice mixture can also be prepped ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply take the ham out, let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes, and then follow the baking and broiling instructions as directed for a deliciously tender and sticky ham just like from the store, but homemade with love!
Copycat Honey Baked Ham: Customization Ideas
Feel free to personalize this delicious ham recipe with your favorite flavors and substitutions!
- Dairy-Free: Replace butter with coconut oil for a similar richness without the dairy.
- Sweetener Swap: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a unique, earthy sweetness.
- Citrus Zest: Add orange or lemon zest to the glaze for a bright, fresh twist that’s delightful.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate cayenne pepper to the spice mixture for a zesty heat that balances the sweetness.
- Fruit Infusion: Mix in crushed pineapple into the glaze for an additional layer of flavor and juiciness.
- Herbal Touch: Try adding fresh rosemary or thyme to the spice mix for a sophisticated, aromatic note.
- Syrup Alternative: Experiment with agave syrup as a lighter sweetener option for a healthier profile.
- Texture Twists: For added crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the glaze just before broiling for a nutty finish.
As you embark on your culinary adventure, don’t forget to check out our other favorites like Cinnamon Roll Honeybun or Ricotta Pistachio Honey to complement your meals!
What to Serve with Copycat Honey Baked Ham
The flavors of a honey-glazed ham call for delightful accompaniments that enhance your meal experience.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The fluffy texture and buttery taste of mashed potatoes beautifully contrast the sticky glaze, making every bite a comfort food dream.
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Honey Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness echoes the ham’s glaze and adds vibrant color to your plate, inviting everyone to dig in.
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Savory Green Beans: The crispiness and freshness of green beans balance the rich flavors of the ham, offering a delightful crunch that completes the meal.
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Warm Dinner Rolls: Soft and pillowy rolls for sopping up that luscious glaze create a satisfying experience, perfect for sharing around the table.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad with citrus vinaigrette brings brightness and acidity to the richness of the ham, ensuring a well-rounded meal.
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Bourbon Peach Iced Tea: This refreshing drink, with hints of peach and a dash of bourbon, pairs wonderfully by contrasting the sweet and savory notes of your festive ham.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with classic cookies that evoke nostalgia, pairing perfectly with the comforting flavors of the evening.
By thoughtfully choosing your sides and drinks, you create a memorable feast that captures the warmth of family gatherings!
Expert Tips for Copycat Honey Baked Ham
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Dry the Ham: Ensure the ham is thoroughly dried with paper towels before applying the honey mixture for better glaze adherence and a beautifully caramelized exterior.
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Cooking Method Matters: For slow cooker enthusiasts, cook on low for 4-5 hours, basting occasionally to develop flavor. Instant Pot users should trim the ham to fit, use 1 cup of apple juice, and set to high for 16 minutes.
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Watch the Glaze: Keep a close eye on the glaze during the final broil; it can burn quickly. Removing it from the oven promptly will give you that perfect, sticky finish.
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Spice to Taste: Adjust the combinations of nutmeg, cloves, and allspice in the spice mixture to suit your palate; it’s all about personal preference.
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Use Leftovers Wisely: If you have ham leftovers, try repurposing them in sandwiches, salads, or even breakfast scrambles to enjoy this delicious Copycat Honey Baked Ham for days!
Storage Tips for Copycat Honey Baked Ham
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and prevent drying.
Freezer: If you have a lot of leftover ham, slice it and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, for freezing up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F or in the microwave until warmed through. To preserve the glaze, cover with foil while reheating in the oven.
Keep it Moist: Add a splash of apple juice or water to the dish when reheating to keep your Copycat Honey Baked Ham juicy and flavorful!
Copycat Honey Baked Ham Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ham for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the Copycat Honey Baked Ham, I recommend looking for a spiral-cut ham that’s around 8 lbs, either bone-in or boneless. Make sure it’s labeled “pre-cooked” for convenience, as these are often juicier and simpler to prepare—perfect for any occasion!
What’s the best way to store leftovers from the ham?
After your delightful feast, store any leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This will help maintain its flavor and moisture. If you need it to last longer, consider slicing it and wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil for freezing, where it can last up to 3 months without losing quality.
Can I freeze Copycat Honey Baked Ham? How?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Copycat Honey Baked Ham, slice it into portions for easy reheating. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. This double-wrapping technique prevents freezer burn and keeps the ham flavorful. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
What can I do if my glaze doesn’t caramelize?
Very! If you find that your glaze isn’t caramelizing as expected, make sure you’re monitoring closely when broiling, as this can burn quickly. Additionally, ensure that you’ve coated the ham evenly with the honey mixture and the spice blend. If it still lacks that sticky finish, you can place it back under the broiler for an extra minute or two—always keep a watchful eye!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Of course! Always check for allergies with your guests. This recipe contains honey, which is fine for most but should be avoided by those who need to control sugar intake. For a gluten-free option, confirm that your spices and glazes are gluten-free as some processed items can contain gluten.
Can I adjust the spices if I’m not a fan of certain flavors?
Absolutely! One of the joys of this recipe is the flexibility. If you prefer milder flavors, feel free to reduce the quantity of cloves, nutmeg, or cinnamon to suit your taste. On the other hand, if you love a kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or experimenting with other spices in the mix. It’s all about making it just right for you!
Copycat Honey Baked Ham: Sweet, Sticky, and So Easy to Make
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and prepare a large roasting pan lined with heavy-duty foil and lightly sprayed with cooking spray.
- Carefully place your spiral-cut ham in the pan with the flat side facing down and cover loosely with foil.
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and honey until well blended, then coat the ham evenly with this glaze.
- Add 1 cup of water to the roasting pan and cover tightly with foil. Bake for about 2.5 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
- While baking, combine granulated sugar, nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon, onion powder, paprika, ginger, and allspice in a bowl.
- After baking, remove the foil and sprinkle half of the spice mixture over the ham.
- Broil the ham for about 5-10 minutes, watching closely as it caramelizes to a golden brown.
- Mix the remaining spice mixture with any drippings from the pan and drizzle over the ham, then broil for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Let the ham rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
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