Bourbon Baked Ham is a show-stopping centerpiece for special occasions and holiday feasts. This succulent and flavorful dish combines a juicy, smoked ham with a luscious bourbon glaze, resulting in a sweet and savory masterpiece. With its roots in Southern cuisine and the rich tradition of bourbon, this recipe adds a touch of elegance and indulgence to the classic baked ham. Whether served as the star of a festive gathering or as a comforting family meal, Bourbon Baked Ham is sure to impress and satisfy even the most discerning palates.

The tradition of baking ham can be traced back to ancient times when curing and smoking meats were common methods of preservation. As European settlers arrived in America, they brought their own techniques and flavors to the culinary landscape, including the practice of baking ham.

In the United States, Southern cuisine has long been associated with the flavors of bourbon and smoked meats. Bourbon, a type of American whiskey, is made primarily from corn and aged in charred oak barrels. The distinct flavors of bourbon, with their notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, lend themselves perfectly to enhancing the flavors of a baked ham.

Bourbon Baked Ham is a true celebration of Southern flavors and techniques. The ham is typically a smoked or cured ham, which adds a depth of flavor and tenderness to the meat. The glaze, made with a combination of bourbon, brown sugar, honey, mustard, and spices, creates a sweet and sticky coating that caramelizes beautifully as the ham bakes.

As the ham bakes in the oven, the glaze permeates the meat, infusing it with a delightful combination of sweetness and smokiness. The result is a succulent, aromatic ham with a beautiful golden-brown glaze that is both visually appealing and tantalizing to the taste buds.

Bourbon Baked Ham has become a beloved tradition, particularly during holidays such as Easter, Christmas, and Thanksgiving. It is often served alongside traditional side dishes such as mashed potatoes, green beans, and cornbread, creating a feast that embodies the warmth and hospitality of Southern cooking.

PREP: 15 MIN.

BAKE: 2½HOURS

MAKES: 15 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 1 fully-cooked smoked ham, bone-in or boneless
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup bourbon
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Place the smoked ham on a rack in a roasting pan, with the fatty side facing up.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, bourbon, honey, Dijon mustard, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and ground nutmeg. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Bring the glaze mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Continue simmering for about 5 minutes, until the glaze thickens slightly.
5. Brush a generous amount of the glaze over the surface of the ham, making sure to coat it evenly.
6. Place the ham in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. Baste the ham with the glaze every 30 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.
7. During the last 10-15 minutes of baking, increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) to allow the glaze to caramelize and create a beautiful golden-brown crust.
8. Once the ham is fully cooked and the glaze has caramelized, remove it fromthe oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing.
9. Slice the Bourbon Baked Ham into thin slices and serve it warm. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the sliced ham for added flavor and presentation.

NOTES:

• Bourbon Baked Ham is a true delight that combines the smoky richness of a smoked ham with the sweet and savory flavors of a bourbon glaze. The result is a tender and juicy centerpiece that is sure to impress. Whether served as the star of a holiday meal or as a decadent treat for a special occasion, Bourbon Baked Ham brings together the flavors of the South and the elegance of bourbon for an unforgettable dining experience.