There is something incredibly magical about a Maple Dijon Glazed Ham. Imagine a succulent ham, glistening under a coat of glossy maple syrup and zesty Dijon mustard, wafting delightful scents that dance through the air. When you slice into it, the tender meat practically melts in your mouth, bursting with flavor that will make your taste buds do a happy little jig.
This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it graced our family table during Easter dinners, where laughter and storytelling flowed as freely as the gravy. The anticipation of that first bite filled the room with excitement—everyone knew they were in for an unforgettable experience filled with sweet and savory goodness.
Why You'll Love This Maple Dijon Glazed Ham
- This incredible Maple Dijon Glazed Ham transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly
I still remember the first time I made this dish; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it for days.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Bone-In Ham: A bone-in ham offers richer flavor and moisture; aim for 8-10 pounds for a crowd-pleaser.
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Pure Maple Syrup: Choose high-quality maple syrup for an authentic sweetness that complements the savory mustard.
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Dijon Mustard: Use smooth Dijon mustard for a tangy kick; it balances perfectly with the sweetness of the syrup.
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Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar adds depth and caramelization; it’s essential for that beautiful glaze.
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Ground Cloves: Just a pinch elevates the flavor profile with warmth; choose fresh ground cloves for optimal taste.
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Pineapple Juice: Optional but recommended; it adds acidity and enhances the sweetness beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Maple Dijon Glazed Ham
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a roasting pan with foil to catch those glorious drippings later on. Place the ham in the pan, fat side up, ensuring it sits comfortably without toppling over.
Create the glaze by whisking together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, ground cloves, and pineapple juice in a bowl until well combined. The aroma will have you dreaming of brunches to come.
Generously brush half of this heavenly mixture all over the ham. Don’t be shy—make sure every crevice gets some love! Cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning while making sure those flavors meld beautifully.
Bake for about 1 hour and 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells like heaven and that glaze begins to caramelize into a shiny masterpiece.
Remove the foil halfway through baking to allow that beautiful glaze to crisp up nicely on top. Brush on some extra glaze during this time because more is always better!
Once done baking, let your ham rest for around 15 minutes before carving. This step allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat so every slice is juicy perfection.
Slice up that glorious ham and serve immediately! Pair it with roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes to complete this feast fit for royalty.
If you really want to impress your guests (or yourself), drizzle any leftover glaze over each serving or serve alongside as dipping sauce!
And there you have it—the ultimate Maple Dijon Glazed Ham ready to steal the show at any gathering! Enjoy!
You Must Know About Maple Dijon Glazed Ham
- This showstopping Maple Dijon Glazed Ham delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. While it warms up, create the maple Dijon glaze by mixing maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and a sprinkle of garlic powder. Then score your ham to allow the glaze to seep in while baking. Place the ham in a roasting pan and brush on that sweet, tangy goodness before popping it into the oven. Bake for about 15 minutes per pound until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite spices like rosemary or thyme to the glaze for an aromatic twist. You can also swap out maple syrup for honey if you prefer a different sweetness level. For an extra crunch, consider sprinkling crushed nuts on top before serving; they add texture and flavor! This is your canvas—paint it as you like!
Storing & Reheating
To store leftover Maple Dijon Glazed Ham, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to five days. When reheating, place slices in a covered dish in the oven at 250°F until warmed through, which helps maintain moisture and flavor without drying it out. You can also microwave individual slices if you’re in a hurry—just cover them with a damp paper towel.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Maple Dijon Glazed Ham
- This professional-quality Maple Dijon Glazed Ham relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth
- Tip let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly
The first time I made this ham was during a family gathering where I hoped to impress my culinary-savvy uncle. To my delight, he couldn’t stop raving about how juicy and flavorful it was! That moment reminded me that even with simple ingredients, great things happen when you put love into cooking.
FAQ
What type of ham is best for Maple Dijon Glazed Ham?
For this recipe, bone-in spiral-cut ham works wonders because its shape allows for even glazing and easy slicing afterward. The bone adds extra flavor during cooking, making every bite rich and delicious. However, if you prefer boneless options, just ensure it’s well marbled to retain moisture.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the maple Dijon glaze up to two days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before applying it to your ham; flavors develop beautifully over time!
How do I know when my ham is done cooking?
Use a meat thermometer to check that your ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F for safety and optimal juiciness. If you’re baking from a cold state straight from the fridge, plan on an extra 30 minutes in the oven for perfectly warm slices.
What should I serve with my Maple Dijon Glazed Ham?
Pair this delightful ham with sides like roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes sprinkled with freshly chopped herbs for balance. Don’t forget crusty bread rolls; they’re perfect for soaking up any leftover glaze on your plate!
Conclusion for Maple Dijon Glazed Ham
In summary, crafting your own Maple Dijon Glazed Ham is not only achievable but also incredibly rewarding! By following these steps—perfecting your cooking process, adding personal touches, and knowing how to store leftovers—you’ll create a dish that’s bound to be the star of any meal. With its delightful combination of flavors and impressive presentation, it’s sure to earn you rave reviews from family and friends alike!
Maple Dijon Glazed Ham
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8
Description
Indulge in the savory sweetness of Maple Dijon Glazed Ham, an irresistible centerpiece for your next gathering. This succulent ham is coated in a luscious glaze made from rich maple syrup and zesty Dijon mustard, creating a perfect harmony of flavors that will leave your guests raving. Ideal for special occasions or family dinners, this dish promises to elevate any meal with its stunning presentation and mouthwatering aroma.
Ingredients
- 1 bone-in ham (8–10 pounds)
- 1 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (light)
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a roasting pan with foil.
- Place the ham in the pan, fat side up.
- In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, ground cloves, and pineapple juice.
- Generously brush half of the glaze over the ham and loosely cover with foil.
- Bake for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, removing the foil halfway through to crisp the glaze. Brush additional glaze during this time.
- Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 oz (85g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 960mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
