Oh, honey, this Golden Honey Glazed Country Ham recipe takes me right back to countless Sunday dinners and holiday feasts! It’s a true taste of home, with that perfect balance of savory, smoky ham and a sweet, glistening glaze that just melts in your mouth. Get ready to fill your kitchen with the most comforting aroma you ever did smell.

This recipe, dear ones, is a timeless treasure, passed down through generations. I remember my own mama making it for every special occasion, filling our home with such warmth and joy. It’s truly a heartwarming tradition, a centerpiece that brings everyone together. For more history on American ham traditions, see this article. This dish embodies the spirit of country cooking, simple yet utterly delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 (1.5-2 lb) fully cooked boneless country ham
• 1/2 cup good quality honey
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of ground cloves (optional, but I love it!)
• Fresh pineapple slices and maraschino cherries for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place an oven rack in the lower third of the oven.
2. Score the ham: With a sharp knife, carefully score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, about 1/4-inch deep. This helps the glaze seep in and makes for a beautiful presentation.
3. Place the ham cut-side down (if applicable) in a small roasting pan with a wire rack. Pour about 1/4 cup of water into the bottom of the pan to keep it moist. Cover loosely with aluminum foil.
4. Bake for 20 minutes, just to get it warmed through.
5. While the ham bakes, prepare your golden glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and cloves (if using). Heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved and the glaze is smooth and warm, about 3-5 minutes. Don’t let it boil hard, dearie.
6. After 20 minutes, remove the ham from the oven and increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Remove the foil.
7. Brush about half of the warm glaze generously over the scored ham, making sure to get it into all the crevices.
8. Return the ham to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 25 minutes, or until the glaze is bubbly and beautifully golden brown. If you’re using pineapple and cherries, you can add them to the ham in the last 10 minutes.
9. Remove from the oven, brush with the remaining glaze, and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This resting time is crucial for juicy ham!