Name: Copycat Honey Baked Ham
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h 30 min
Total time: 2 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (8-pound) half spiral cut ham, bone in or boneless; 2 tablespoons butter, melted; 1/3 cup honey; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon cloves; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon ginger; 1/4 teaspoon allspice

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Copycat Honey Baked Ham

If you’re craving the delicious sweetness and savory flavors of a Honey Baked Ham, you’re in luck! This copycat recipe brings the taste of those beloved holiday hams right into your home. Enjoying this dish during family gatherings or special occasions can create lasting memories, making it a staple on the dinner table.

Why Make This Recipe

Making a copycat Honey Baked Ham at home not only saves you money but allows you to customize the flavors to suit your family’s preferences. You’ll enjoy the satisfaction of preparing a delicious meal from scratch, and the aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone eagerly awaiting dinner. This recipe is perfect for festive occasions and can easily serve a crowd, making it a perfect centerpiece for your next feast. Plus, homemade ham means you control all the ingredients—making it healthier and free from preservatives!

How to Make Copycat Honey Baked Ham

Creating your own Copycat Honey Baked Ham is easier than you might think! With just a few steps and some simple ingredients, you can serve up this delightful dish that rivals any store-bought version. Here’s how you can do it.

Ingredients

1 (8-pound) half spiral cut ham, bone in or boneless
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1/3 cup honey
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon cloves
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon ginger
1/4 teaspoon allspice

Directions

Preheat the oven to 325º Fahrenheit and place the oven rack in the lower third part of the oven. Cover a roasting pan or rimmed baking sheet with foil and coat the metal wire rack insert with cooking spray.
Remove the ham from its package. If using a bone-in ham, remove the plastic cap that’s over the bone. Place the ham flat-side down on the roasting rack.
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and honey. Pat the ham dry with paper towels. Using a pastry brush or your hands, slather or massage the butter-honey mixture all over the outside of the ham and in between the slices. If any leftover glaze lands at the bottom of the roasting pan, scoop it up and use it to glaze the ham.
Add about a cup of water to the bottom of the roasting pan. This step will help create a moist environment in the oven, ensuring your ham stays juicy while it bakes.
Bake covered for about 2.5 hours (about 20 minutes per pound of ham) or until an instant-read thermometer registers 140º Fahrenheit when inserted into the thickest part of the ham.
Once done, remove the ham from the oven and cover it loosely with aluminum foil to keep it warm.
In a small bowl, combine the spice-sugar mixture (made from the remaining granulated sugar and spices). Uncover the ham. If the edges appear dry, baste it with the pan juices, then pat half of the spice-sugar mixture (about 3/4 cup) all over the surface of the ham. Alternatively, you can place the sugar mixture on a sheet pan and roll the ham through it until nicely coated.
Return the ham to the oven and broil until caramelized and bubbly. You can also use a blow torch if you prefer.
In a small saucepan, combine the remaining sugar mixture with about 1/3 cup of ham drippings (pan juices) or water (or a combination of both). Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat and cook until it reaches a glaze consistency, about 2 minutes.
Pour or brush the glaze over the ham, broiling for another 1-2 minutes or until bubbly. Keep a close eye during this step as it can burn quickly.
Remove from the oven and let the ham rest for 5-10 minutes. Serve warm or cold.

Pro Tips for Success Copycat Honey Baked Ham

Choose the Right Ham: Selecting a high-quality ham is key to great flavor. Look for a spiral cut ham, which makes it easier to serve and absorb the glaze.
Proper Glazing: Don’t skip the glaze! The combination of honey and spices creates a crunchy exterior that pairs perfectly with the tender meat inside. Be generous but ensure it’s evenly distributed.
Moisture is Key: Adding water to the bottom of the roasting pan helps to keep a moist environment, which is essential for a juicy ham.
Basting is Beneficial: Baste your ham during cooking to keep the exterior moist and flavorful. Use the drippings from the bottom of the pan for the best results.
Resting Period Matters: Let the ham rest after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. This ensures each slice is tender and flavorful.
Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to tweak the spices in the sugar mixture to suit your family’s tastes. Some might enjoy a sweeter ham, while others prefer a hint of spice.

Flavor Variations Copycat Honey Baked Ham

Maple Glaze: Swap out honey for maple syrup for a unique twist on the classic flavor. This gives your ham a rich sweetness that’s perfect for breakfast-themed gatherings.
Citrus Zest: Add zest from oranges or lemons to the honey mixture for a refreshing, fruity flavor. This brightens up the dish and adds a lovely aromatic quality.
Spicy Kick: If you prefer some heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mixture to give your ham a delightful spicy contrast to the sweetness.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme in the glaze to add an earthy flavor that complements the sweetness beautifully.
Brown Sugar: For a deeper, more caramelized flavor, substitute half of the granulated sugar with brown sugar in the spice mixture.

Serving Suggestions Copycat Honey Baked Ham

Classic Side Dishes: Serve alongside traditional sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, and stuffing for a timeless holiday feast.
Sandwiches: Leftover ham can be used to make delicious sandwiches with mustard and pickles or served warm with melted cheese.
Salads: Add chunks of ham to mixed greens with dried cranberries and nuts for a hearty salad option.
Egg Dishes: Incorporate chopped ham into quiches or omelet fillings for a protein-packed breakfast.

Storage and Freezing Instructions Copycat Honey Baked Ham

To store leftover ham, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it! Wrap the ham tightly in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. Frozen ham can last for up to 6 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 310
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 0g
Sodium: 1100mg

FAQ About Copycat Honey Baked Ham

Can I use a different type of ham for this recipe?

Absolutely! While a spiral cut ham is ideal for this recipe, you can use any type of ham you prefer, whether it’s bone-in, boneless, or even a smoked variety. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How long do I need to cook an 8-pound ham?

For an 8-pound ham, plan on about 2.5 hours of cooking time at 325º Fahrenheit. The goal is to reach an internal temperature of 140º Fahrenheit. A meat thermometer is a handy tool to ensure it cooks evenly.

Can I prepare the ham ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the glaze and spice mixtures a day in advance. You can also assemble the ham and refrigerate it overnight, allowing the flavors to meld together before baking the next day.

What can I do with leftover ham?

Leftover ham can be incredibly versatile! You can use it in sandwiches, salads, soups, or casseroles. Additionally, it freezes well, so you can save it for future meals.

Is there a vegetarian or vegan alternative to ham?

For a vegetarian or vegan alternative, consider using a savory roasted cauliflower, or marinated and baked tofu or tempeh, flavored with similar spices and glazes to achieve a comparable taste.

Final Thoughts

Making a Copycat Honey Baked Ham is a rewarding endeavor that can elevate any gathering. With its sweet and savory combination, this dish is sure to impress friends and family alike. Not only is it simple to prepare, but the resulting meal allows for creativity and personalization. Whether served as the main feature for a holiday dinner or a casual get-together, your homemade ham will be the star of the table. Enjoy every moment spent preparing and sharing this delightful dish!

Copycat Honey Baked Ham