How Long To Cook Honey Baked Ham
Honey Baked Ham is a delightful dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a regular family dinner, this sweet and savory ham is always a hit. The process of cooking a honey baked ham is simple, and with the right techniques, you can ensure that it turns out tender, juicy, and full of flavor.
Cooking Time for Honey Baked Ham
The cooking time for a honey baked ham primarily depends on its size. As a general rule, a bone-in ham should be cooked for 40 minutes per kilogram or 18 minutes per pound at 275 degrees F. Cooking it at a higher temperature for a longer duration may risk drying it out. Since most hams are already fully cooked, the goal is to reheat them thoroughly without overcooking.
Warming a ham in the oven takes a considerable amount of time due to its size, but with proper planning, it can be a wonderful addition to any holiday or family dinner.
Bone-In or Boneless Ham
Both bone-in and boneless hams work well for a honey baked ham recipe. However, bone-in ham tends to stay juicier throughout the cooking process and adds flavor to the meat. On the other hand, boneless spiral hams are convenient and easy to serve.
Spiral Ham or Whole Ham
Using a spiral ham for the honey baked ham recipe is recommended as the glaze can easily seep into the meat while it bakes, resulting in a flavorful and impressive dish. If using a whole uncut ham, scoring the exterior allows the glaze to penetrate and flavor the meat. Whole hams are a great option for year-round baking and are readily available.
Ham Glaze Ingredients
The ham glaze typically includes butter, honey, brown sugar, garlic, ground mustard, salt, and pepper. There are various ways to customize the glaze, such as adding red pepper flakes for a kick, incorporating citrus zest or juice, including cinnamon for a festive touch, or using maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
Recipe and Cooking Instructions
For a delicious honey baked ham, you’ll need a bone-in, spiral-cut ham, honey, unsalted butter, brown sugar, minced garlic, ground mustard, and black pepper. Preheat the oven to 275 degrees F, wrap the ham in foil, and bake for 2.5-3 hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 140 degrees F. While the ham bakes, prepare the glaze by simmering the ingredients in a pot, then brush the ham with the glaze and bake at 450 degrees F for 10-15 minutes until the glaze caramelizes.
Expert Tips for Perfect Honey Baked Ham
Choosing a spiral-cut ham makes serving easier and allows the glaze to penetrate the meat. Cooking the ham at a low temperature helps retain its moisture, and letting it rest after baking ensures a juicy result.
FAQs
How many people does a 10-pound ham feed?
As a rule of thumb, a 10-pound ham will feed around 10 people. Adjust the size based on the number of servings needed.
How much does a honey baked ham cost?
A honey baked ham can cost over $50, but making it at home with a store-bought spiral-cut ham can be more cost-effective while still delivering amazing flavor.
How to Cook Honey Baked Ham?
Honey baked ham is cooked in the oven at 250F for a few hours, and then glazed and baked at 400F until caramelized.
How to Store Honey Baked Ham?
Leftover honey baked ham should be wrapped in foil and refrigerated. It can last for about a week in the fridge and up to 6 weeks in the freezer.
Can You Freeze Honey Baked Ham?
Yes, honey baked ham can be frozen for future use. Proper wrapping and labeling are essential to maintain its quality.
How to Reheat Honey Baked Ham?
Thaw frozen honey baked ham in the fridge overnight and reheat it in the oven at 275F for about 10 minutes per pound.
Conclusion
Honey baked ham is a timeless dish that brings joy to any gathering. With the right cooking time, choice of ham, flavorful glaze, and proper storage, you can enjoy this delectable ham not just during the holidays, but throughout the year.