There’s something magical about the first slice of a Honey Baked Ham with Orange Glaze. The golden crust, sticky and fragrant with citrus and spice, sets the tone for any holiday feast. This ham is a true Southern treasure—sweet, tangy, and rich with bold flavor. I still remember my grandmother’s kitchen on Thanksgiving morning: the aroma of honey and orange wafting through the air while everyone waited impatiently for the ham to finish baking. This recipe captures that same nostalgic warmth, blending the comfort of tradition with a touch of gourmet flair. Let’s uncover the secrets behind this unforgettable centerpiece.
The Story Behind the Perfect Honey Baked Ham with Orange Glaze
A Family Tradition with a Twist
When I first learned to make Honey Baked Ham with Orange Glaze, it was out of love for my family’s holiday traditions. Growing up, our table was never complete without that glossy ham at the center—its surface caramelized to perfection. My father used to brush on layer after layer of glaze, each one deepening the shine. Now, I’ve added my twist: a splash of orange juice and a hint of Dijon mustard for balance.
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Honey Baked Ham with Orange Glaze
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A sweet and savory Honey Baked Ham with Orange Glaze, combining honey, orange marmalade, and warm spices for the ultimate holiday centerpiece.
Ingredients
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8–10 lb bone-in ham
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1 cup honey
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¾ cup orange marmalade
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½ cup orange juice
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¼ cup Dijon mustard
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½ cup brown sugar
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¼ tsp ground cinnamon
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¼ tsp ground cloves
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¼ tsp ground nutmeg
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1 tsp Bayou City Lemon Pepper
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Orange slices (for garnish)
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Fresh rosemary (for garnish)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
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Score the ham in a diamond pattern and place it in a roasting pan with orange juice.
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Combine honey, orange marmalade, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and spices in a saucepan. Simmer for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Brush the ham generously with the glaze, cover loosely with foil, and bake.
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Baste every 30 minutes with additional glaze to build a rich coating.
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When the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C), uncover and brush with the final glaze.
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Bake uncovered for 15 more minutes, garnish with orange slices and rosemary, rest for 15 minutes, then serve.
Notes
Prepare glaze up to 2 days in advance for a deeper flavor.
Use a thermometer to avoid overcooking the ham.
Store leftovers wrapped tightly in foil for up to 5 days.
Reheat gently with a splash of orange juice for best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Baked
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 1120 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 29 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
Why Honey and Orange Are the Perfect Pair
The harmony of honey and orange isn’t just delicious—it’s symbolic. Honey represents abundance and warmth, while orange brings brightness and renewal. Together, they elevate the humble ham into a celebration-worthy masterpiece. This Honey Baked Ham Recipe embraces that balance: a sweet foundation of honey, a zesty kick from citrus, and an aromatic layer of cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whether it’s Christmas, Easter, or Thanksgiving, this dish has the power to turn a simple meal into a memory. For those who love Ham Recipes Baked or Lomo de Cerdo Recetas, this version offers the best of both worlds—Southern soul and classic European depth.
Ingredients and Their Flavor Harmony
Selecting the Star: The Ham
The best Honey Baked Ham begins with a bone-in ham, about 8–10 pounds. The bone not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the meat moist during baking. Look for a fully cooked, uncut ham—spiral-cut versions tend to dry out faster.
Creating the Glaze Magic
Here’s what transforms this ham from simple to spectacular:
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Honey – Sweetness that caramelizes beautifully under heat.
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Orange Juice – Freshly squeezed for brightness.
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Orange Marmalade – Adds depth and subtle bitterness.
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Dijon Mustard – Sharp and tangy contrast.
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Brown Sugar – Encourages that deep amber glaze.
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Cinnamon, Cloves, Nutmeg – Infuse cozy warmth.
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Bayou City Lemon Pepper – Brings a zesty, peppery note.
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Fresh Rosemary & Orange Slices – For aroma and presentation.
Flavor Breakdown Table
| Ingredient | Purpose in the Recipe |
|---|---|
| Honey | Adds natural sweetness and sticky texture |
| Orange Juice | Brings tangy brightness |
| Marmalade | Enhances glaze richness |
| Dijon Mustard | Balances sweetness with spice |
| Brown Sugar | Deepens caramelization |
| Warm Spices | Layered warmth and aroma |
| Lemon Pepper | Subtle heat and zest |
| Rosemary & Oranges | Visual appeal and herbal freshness |
Together, these ingredients form the heart of the Honey Baked Ham Glaze—a blend that clings to every slice and creates that signature glossy crust.
How to Make Honey Baked Ham with Orange Glaze
Step 1: Prepare and Score the Ham
Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the ham on a roasting rack in a pan. Using a sharp knife, score the surface in a diamond pattern. This allows the glaze to penetrate deeply, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.
Step 2: Craft the Glaze
In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of honey, ¾ cup of orange marmalade, ½ cup of orange juice, ¼ cup of Dijon mustard, ½ cup of brown sugar, and the spices (¼ tsp each of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg). Simmer on low until slightly thickened—around 10 minutes.
Step 3: Bake and Baste
Pour a little orange juice into the base of the pan. Brush the ham with glaze, cover loosely with foil, and bake. Every 30 minutes, uncover and baste again with the warm glaze. The repetition builds that irresistible sticky coating.
Step 4: Final Glaze and Garnish
When the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C), remove the foil and brush with the last layer of glaze. Add orange slices and rosemary sprigs. Bake uncovered for the final 15 minutes until the ham gleams like amber glass.
This technique creates the luscious, slightly crisp edges that define a true Honey Glazed Ham. Every slice reveals layers of flavor—sweet, smoky, citrusy, and perfectly balanced.
Serving and Pairing Ideas
How to Serve Like a Chef
Once your Honey Baked Ham with Orange Glaze rests for 15 minutes, slice thinly against the grain. Serve it warm with classic Southern sides like creamy mac and cheese, cornbread dressing, or roasted sweet potatoes. Each bite carries that sticky, honeyed crust that glows under candlelight—a hallmark of any festive table.
Perfect Pairings for Every Occasion
This ham isn’t just for holidays. Its versatility makes it perfect for Sunday dinners and leftovers. Try it in:
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Honey Glazed Ham Sandwiches with brie and arugula
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Breakfast Hash with sweet potatoes and runny eggs
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Salads with cranberries and pecans
And if you’re planning your next Thanksgiving Cooking session, consider pairing this ham with Thanksgiving Recipes Side Dishes like green bean casserole or baked mac and cheese. The contrast of savory sides with sweet citrus glaze creates an unforgettable balance.
A glass of sparkling cider or chilled Riesling enhances the flavor even more, bringing the honey and orange notes to life. Serve it family-style for that warm, inviting touch that makes everyone linger a little longer around the table.
Tips, Variations & Make-Ahead Secrets
Expert Tips for Perfect Results
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Don’t rush the glaze. Let it thicken slightly; this ensures it adheres beautifully.
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Baste generously. Every coat deepens the shine and flavor.
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Keep moisture. Add a cup of orange juice or water to the roasting pan to prevent dryness.
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Use a thermometer. Ham is ready when it hits 140°F.
Tasty Variations
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Maple Twist: Swap honey for maple syrup for a rustic sweetness.
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Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper or smoked paprika.
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Pineapple Citrus Glaze: Combine pineapple juice with the orange base for a tropical accent.
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Spanish Fusion: Add a splash of sherry vinegar or a dash of pimentón de la Vera for a nod to Lomo de Cerdo Recetas.
Make-Ahead Tip
You can prepare the glaze 2 days ahead and refrigerate it. On the day of baking, simply warm it up and baste. The flavors will have deepened, making the glaze even richer.
Storage Tip
Wrap leftovers tightly in foil. They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days. For sandwiches, gently reheat slices in a skillet with a touch of butter and orange juice—your kitchen will smell incredible all over again.
FAQ Section
Can I use boneless ham instead of bone-in?
Yes, though bone-in offers better flavor. Reduce baking time slightly for boneless versions.
How do I keep my ham from drying out?
Add liquid (like orange juice) to the pan and baste often. Cover loosely with foil to retain steam.
What’s the best way to reheat Honey Baked Ham?
Wrap slices in foil and warm at 275°F for 10–15 minutes. Avoid microwaving—it can toughen the texture.
Can I make the glaze without mustard?
Sure! Substitute apple cider vinegar for tang without spice.
Is this good for Thanksgiving or Christmas?
Absolutely. It’s one of the best Thanksgiving Cooking ideas and pairs beautifully with all holiday sides.
Conclusion
There’s no denying the allure of a beautifully glazed Honey Baked Ham with Orange Glaze. Each slice tells a story—of warmth, family, and the kind of comfort only food can deliver. The blend of honey, orange, and spice transforms a simple ham into an unforgettable feast. Whether you’re serving it on Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Sunday supper, this dish brings joy to every bite. So roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and let your kitchen fill with the scent of citrus and caramelized honey. This is more than a recipe—it’s a delicious celebration of togetherness.
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