When you think of comfort food, what dances in your mind? For me, it’s the enchanting aroma of Maple Glazed Ham with Cherry Mustard Sauce wafting through the air, wrapping around you like a warm hug on a chilly day. The glossy glaze reflecting the light like a culinary masterpiece is enough to make any foodie weak at the knees.
Picture this: a festive gathering with laughter bubbling around, and there sits the star of the show—your mouthwatering ham, glazed to perfection and complemented by that zesty cherry mustard sauce. Trust me; this dish isn’t just for holidays or special occasions; it can turn any Tuesday dinner into an extravagant feast.
Why You'll Love This Maple Glazed Ham with Cherry Mustard Sauce
- This incredible Maple Glazed Ham with Cherry Mustard Sauce transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly
I remember pulling this recipe out during my family’s holiday get-togethers. My uncle took one bite and proclaimed, “I’d fight a bear for another slice!” Not sure if that’s a compliment or an extreme reaction, but it definitely made my heart swell with pride.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Bone-In Ham: Opt for a high-quality bone-in ham for richer flavor and moisture retention during cooking.
Pure Maple Syrup: Choose pure maple syrup instead of imitation for vibrant sweetness and authentic taste.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a delightful tanginess that balances perfectly with sweet maple.
Cherry Preserves: Use good-quality preserves to enhance the overall flavor profile with fruity notes.
Cinnamon: A sprinkle of cinnamon adds warmth and depth to the glaze.
Cloves: Whole cloves bring out aromatic richness; consider studding your ham for extra flavor.
Fresh Rosemary: A touch of fresh rosemary elevates the dish with its fragrant essence.
For the Sauce:
Apple Cider Vinegar: The acidity balances sweetness while adding an extra zing to your sauce.
Water: Helps create a smooth consistency in your glaze; adjust as needed based on preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Maple Glazed Ham with Cherry Mustard Sauce
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Make sure it’s nice and hot before introducing that glorious ham.
Prepare Your Ham: Place the ham on a large roasting pan, cut side down. Score the surface in a crisscross pattern about half an inch deep—it looks fancy and helps absorb all those delicious flavors.
Make The Glaze: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine maple syrup, Dijon mustard, cherry preserves, cinnamon, and cloves. Stir until it thickens slightly—about five minutes—then set aside some glaze for basting later.
Glaze The Ham: Brush half of your luscious glaze all over the surface of the ham. Don’t be shy—you want every inch coated in that sticky goodness!
Bake And Baste: Place your ham in the oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes per pound. Every 30 minutes or so, baste it generously with remaining glaze until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
Finishing Touches: Once baked to perfection, remove your ham from the oven and let it rest for about 20 minutes before slicing. Drizzle any leftover glaze over slices when serving—trust me; it’s pure magic!
This Maple Glazed Ham with Cherry Mustard Sauce isn’t just food; it’s an experience! Perfectly sweetened with just enough tang to keep things interesting while being visually stunning enough to impress anyone who stops by your dinner table. Enjoy every juicy bite!
You Must Know About Maple Glazed Ham with Cherry Mustard Sauce
- This showstopping Maple Glazed Ham with Cherry Mustard Sauce delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions
Perfecting the Cooking Process
The best way to achieve perfection is to start by scoring the ham for even glazing. Preheat your oven while preparing the cherry mustard sauce and let it simmer. Bake the ham, basting every 20 minutes to enhance flavor and caramelization.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the cherry preserves for peach or apricot if you’re feeling fruity! Adding a splash of bourbon can also elevate the glaze, giving it a delightful kick. Don’t hesitate to sprinkle in some fresh herbs for added aroma.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Maple Glazed Ham in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, wrap slices in foil and warm them in a preheated oven at 325°F until heated through—about 15 minutes will do the trick without drying it out.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Maple Glazed Ham with Cherry Mustard Sauce
- This professional-quality Maple Glazed Ham with Cherry Mustard Sauce relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth
- Tip let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly
Cooking this ham reminds me of Thanksgiving dinners filled with laughter and too many side dishes! My Aunt Sally swears by this recipe; she once made two hams just so there’d be leftovers—and I’m still dreaming about her famous sandwiches!
FAQ
What type of ham is best for Maple Glazed Ham with Cherry Mustard Sauce?
A bone-in, fully cooked ham works wonderfully because it tends to be more flavorful and juicy. Bone-in hams also allow for better flavor penetration from your glaze, creating that mouthwatering finish everyone craves.
Can I make the cherry mustard sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce up to three days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just give it a quick stir before using; flavors actually deepen when allowed to sit!
What should I serve with my maple glazed ham?
Pairing roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or tangy coleslaw elevates your meal beautifully. These sides complement the sweet and savory elements of the ham while adding delightful contrast to your plate.
How do I know when my ham is fully heated?
Use a meat thermometer; an internal temperature of 140°F indicates it’s ready! If you’re confident enough, you can always rely on your nose as well—just follow that irresistible aroma wafting through your kitchen!
Conclusion for Maple Glazed Ham with Cherry Mustard Sauce
This Maple Glazed Ham with Cherry Mustard Sauce not only offers a delicious centerpiece but also creates cherished memories around your table. Remember to score wisely, add personal touches, and store properly for delightful leftovers. With this recipe under your belt, you’ll impress friends and family alike—everyone will be clamoring for their share! Now roll up those sleeves and get glazing!
Maple Glazed Ham with Cherry Mustard Sauce
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 10 people 1x
Description
Maple Glazed Ham with Cherry Mustard Sauce is a show-stopping dish that transforms a simple bone-in ham into an irresistible centerpiece. The sweet maple glaze combined with the tangy cherry mustard sauce creates a perfect balance of flavors, making it ideal for any occasion—from festive gatherings to casual weeknight dinners. This recipe guarantees juicy, flavorful slices that are sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 bone-in ham (8–10 pounds)
- 1 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup cherry preserves
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 5 whole cloves
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Score the surface of the ham in a crisscross pattern and place it in a roasting pan.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine maple syrup, Dijon mustard, cherry preserves, cinnamon, and cloves. Cook until slightly thickened (about 5 minutes), reserving some glaze for later.
- Brush half of the glaze over the ham and bake for approximately 15 minutes per pound, basting every 30 minutes.
- Once the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C), remove from the oven and let rest for 20 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 oz (85g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
