Copycat HoneyBaked Ham Glaze

There is nothing like serving a showstopping Honey Baked Ham right out of your own kitchen It lets you skip the crowded shops on the holidays and creates that glossy crackly sweet crust everyone loves This recipe delivers juicy slices with a sticky glaze and costs much less than the store version

The first time I made this I could not believe how easy it was My family huddled around the ham carving station picking those crunchy glazed bits right off the bone It is now the main event at our holiday dinner

Ingredients

• Bone in spiral sliced half ham: The spiral cut lets all the glaze soak in Look for one with even marbling and no added water for best flavor
• Butter melted: Helps the honey and glaze cling to the meat Use real butter for richness
• Honey: The base of the sweet sticky crust Use wildflower or clover honey for clean flavor
• Granulated sugar: Builds the caramelized shell White sugar melts perfectly for that signature crackle
• Seasoned salt: Rounds out the sweetness with a touch of savory Opt for a salt blend without anti caking agents
• Onion powder: Gives a subtle savory note Freshly ground will have more punch
• Ground cinnamon: Classic for warmth and a hint of spice
• Ground nutmeg: Deepens the flavor Use fresh grated for intensity
• Ground ginger: Adds brightness and helps balance the sweet richness
• Ground cloves: Brings in warming tones A little goes a long way
• Paprika: Boosts color and subtle smokiness Spanish or smoked works wonders
• Allspice: Just a pinch helps bring out all the other spices Choose whole and grind just a bit for freshness

Step by Step Instructions

Prepare the Ham:

Check your ham for excess fat or packaging then trim as needed Place the ham cut side down in your slow cooker to help heat distribute and keep it juicy

Make the Butter Honey Rub:

Melt the butter and stir in honey until smooth Use clean hands or a brush to gently work this mixture over the ham and into the slices This helps every bite grab flavor

Slow Cook the Ham:

Cover the slow cooker and set to low Cook for about four to five hours until warmed all the way through and starting to get tender

Preheat Broiler and Line Pan:

Toward the end of slow cooking time move your oven rack to near the top and turn the broiler to high Line a sturdy roasting pan with heavy foil to catch glazes

Mix and Add Sugar Spice Glaze:

Combine the sugar all spices and a bit of seasoned salt in a small bowl Pat half this mixture firmly all over the top and sides of the ham The warm surface will help the sugar stick and start to melt

Broil for Crackly Glaze:

Slide ham under the broiler for just a few minutes Watch closely Once the glaze is bubbling and caramelized remove immediately

Make Sugar Syrup for Extra Glaze:

Pour the remaining sugar and spices into a small saucepan Add water or some ham juices and if you want a grown up twist a splash of bourbon Whisk and bring to a quick boil just to dissolve the sugar into a thick syrup

Brush or Pour Extra Glaze:

Spoon or brush this syrup over all exposed ham then run it under the broiler again for a minute or two Be careful it can burn quickly

Rest and Serve:

Let the ham rest about ten minutes before carving to keep the juices in Slice and serve warm or cold both ways taste amazing

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My favorite thing is scraping up the sticky caramelized glaze on the pan My kids will race to steal those sugared shards just like my sister and I did every Easter

Storage Tips

If you have leftover ham wrap tightly or store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to five days For longer storage freeze sliced portions double wrapped in foil and put inside a freezer bag Leftovers are delicious cold in sandwiches or gently reheated in the oven covered with a bit of added liquid to prevent drying

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have honey try using pure maple syrup for a slightly darker flavor Gluten free seasoned salt works just as well For the spice blend you can skip allspice or ginger if needed but try not to omit the big three cinnamon nutmeg and cloves which give the classic honey baked crust

Serving Suggestions

Pile hand carved slices onto a platter and garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley Serve with scalloped potatoes roasted carrots or a simple green salad For a party let guests build mini sandwiches with Hawaiian rolls and a swipe of mustard

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Cultural and Historical Context

Glazed ham is a centerpiece on many American tables especially for holidays like Christmas and Easter The honey and spice coating echoes the British tradition of using sweet preserves on roast meats but has truly become a classic Southern holiday staple

Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe

→ What type of ham should I use?

A bone-in, spiral sliced half ham is preferred for even cooking and easy serving. It also absorbs glaze better.

→ Can I bake instead of slow cooking?

Absolutely. Cover in foil and bake at 275°F, allowing about 12-15 minutes per pound, then glaze and broil as directed.

→ How do I get a good caramelized crust?

After applying the sugar and spice blend, broil the ham for a few minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

→ Is it possible to prepare this ahead?

Yes. The ham can be cooked and glazed in advance. Reheat gently, or serve cold—the glaze keeps the meat moist.

→ What’s a tasty alternative to water in the glaze?

Try using a splash of ham juices and bourbon for a deeper, more aromatic flavor in your final glaze.

→ Can I use a boneless ham?

Boneless hams will work, but bone-in offers more flavor and juiciness, plus a better glaze finish.