The Holiday Showstopper

Inspired by Momy Cooks, Erren’s Kitchen, and Tasty, this Honey Mustard Glazed Ham is the ultimate holiday showstopper. Glazed ham has long been a centerpiece for Easter, Christmas, and Thanksgiving, gracing tables with its impressive presentation and irresistible aroma. The beauty of this dish lies in its balance: the natural savoriness of ham paired with a glaze that blends sweet honey, tangy mustard, and caramelized brown sugar. Together, they create a glossy finish that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. Beyond its flavor, glazed ham is practical—it feeds a crowd, reheats beautifully, and pairs effortlessly with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and dinner rolls. Whether served as the main attraction at a holiday feast or repurposed into sandwiches and breakfast hashes the next day, Honey Mustard Glazed Ham embodies tradition, comfort, and celebration, making it a timeless favorite for festive gatherings.

What Is Honey Mustard Glaze Ham?

Honey Mustard Glazed Ham is a fully cooked ham baked with a sticky, flavorful glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. The glaze combines honey’s sweetness with the sharp tang of Dijon mustard, balanced by brown sugar for depth. As the ham bakes, the glaze forms a glossy, golden crust that enhances both flavor and presentation. The result is a dish that delivers savory richness with a sweet and tangy finish. This versatile centerpiece pairs well with traditional sides like potatoes, green beans, or rolls, but also shines in creative leftovers such as sandwiches or breakfast dishes. Whether bone-in spiral or whole smoked ham, the honey mustard glaze elevates the meat into something festive and indulgent. It’s a dish that feels celebratory yet approachable, perfect for holiday tables where tradition meets irresistible flavor.

Ingredient Overview

The success of Honey Mustard Glazed Ham lies in its carefully chosen ingredients:

Ham: Bone-in spiral ham or whole smoked ham are ideal. Bone-in cuts provide deeper flavor and juicier slices.
Glaze base: Honey, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar form the foundation, balancing sweetness and tang.
Flavor boosters: Garlic, cloves, soy sauce, and fruit juices (pineapple or orange) add complexity and brightness.
Optional garnishes: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, and citrus slices for presentation.

Tip: Always choose bone-in ham for maximum flavor and tenderness.

These ingredients combine to create a glaze that caramelizes beautifully, enhancing the ham’s natural savoriness while adding festive flair.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat oven: Set to 325°F (165°C). Place rack in the lower third.
Prepare ham: Score the surface in a diamond pattern. Stud with cloves if desired for aroma.
Make glaze: Whisk together 1 cup honey, ½ cup Dijon mustard, ½ cup brown sugar, and ½ cup pineapple or orange juice. Add garlic or soy sauce for depth.
Bake ham: Place ham in a roasting pan. Brush generously with glaze. Cover loosely with foil.
Baste: Bake, basting every 20 minutes with pan juices and glaze.
Finish: During the last hour, remove foil and apply glaze liberally to allow caramelization.
Check temperature: Bake until internal temperature reaches 140°F.
Rest and serve: Let ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with herbs and citrus slices.

Tip: Apply glaze during the last hour of baking to prevent burning while achieving a glossy finish.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ons

Honey Mustard Glazed Ham is highly adaptable. For a spicy version, add chili flakes or hot mustard to the glaze. For a fruity twist, incorporate pineapple juice or apricot preserves for brightness. For a smoky depth, mix in bourbon or maple syrup. Each variation adds a unique character while keeping the classic sweet-savory balance intact.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Honey Mustard Glazed Ham with mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, and dinner rolls for a traditional holiday spread. Leftovers are perfect for sandwiches, breakfast hashes, or even pasta dishes. Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for presentation, and add citrus slices for color. This dish not only anchors festive meals but also provides versatile options for enjoying the days after.