apricot ham glaze recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best apricot ham glaze recipe

I’ve been making this apricot ham glaze recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The combination of sweet and savory flavors is just right, and it’s incredibly easy to make. I love that it’s a one-pan dish, too – just toss the ham in the oven and let it cook while you focus on other things.

My kids are particularly fond of this recipe because it’s so tender and juicy – they can’t get enough of it! I’ve served it at countless family gatherings and holiday meals, and it’s always been a crowd-pleaser. Plus, the health benefits of using apricots instead of refined sugars are a definite bonus in my book.

When I’m feeling stressed or overwhelmed, whipping up a batch of this glaze is just what I need to calm down and get back in the kitchen. There’s something therapeutic about cooking up a storm in the kitchen, don’t you think? And when the glaze is done, the aroma that fills the house is just heavenly – it’s like a warm hug on a cold day.

Anyway, back to this amazing recipe… I first discovered this recipe years ago when I was looking for ways to spice up our family’s usual Sunday dinner routine. It was love at first taste – who wouldn’t adore the sweet and tangy flavors that dance on your tongue?

Since then, I’ve tweaked the recipe to suit our tastes, but the core ingredients have remained the same. My family loves how versatile this recipe is – we’ve served it with everything from roasted vegetables to mashed potatoes.

Apricot Glazed Ham

4.6 from 1614 votes

A sweet and tangy apricot glaze transforms a simple baked ham into a stunning centerpiece. The glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a glossy, flavorful crust that complements the salty ham perfectly.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time2 hours 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time2 hours 40 mins
Servings: 12Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Ham

1 (8 to 10 pound) bone-in fully cooked ham
20 whole cloves (optional)

For the Apricot Glaze

1 cup apricot preserves
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
2Remove the ham from its packaging and pat it completely dry with paper towels.
3If using, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern about 1/4 inch deep, and insert a whole clove into the center of each diamond.
4Place the ham cut side down on a rack in a large roasting pan.
5Add 1/2 cup of water to the bottom of the pan to prevent drippings from burning.
6Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
7While the ham is baking, make the glaze.
8In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the apricot preserves, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and ground cloves.
9Stir frequently until the mixture is smooth and the sugar has dissolved, about 5 minutes.
10Remove from heat and set aside.
11After the initial baking time, remove the ham from the oven and increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C).
12Brush a generous layer of the apricot glaze over the entire surface of the ham.
13Return the ham to the oven, uncovered.
14Bake the ham for an additional 20 to 30 minutes, basting with the remaining glaze every 10 minutes, until the glaze is caramelized and the internal temperature of the ham reaches 140°F (60°C) on a meat thermometer.
15The surface should be sticky and deeply browned.
16Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15 to 20 minutes before carving.
17This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
18Transfer the ham to a cutting board and slice against the grain to serve.

🔧Equipment

Large roasting pan with rack
Small saucepan
Basting brush
Aluminum foil
Meat thermometer

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 24g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 1800mg🌾Total Carbs: 25g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 22g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

For a spicier glaze, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger. Leftover ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days and is excellent in sandwiches, soups, or omelets.

Watch Video Of How Apricot Glazed Ham Works

This apricot ham glaze recipe has become an essential component of our family gatherings – everyone loves it! Not only is it ridiculously easy to make, but it’s also packed with flavor and nutrients.

One thing I appreciate about this recipe is how well it pairs with various side dishes – whether you’re serving roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes, this glaze will complement them beautifully. If you’re looking for an easy yet impressive main course option for your next gathering, look no further than this apricot ham glaze recipe.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Apricot Glazed Ham

Q: What kind of ham should I use for this recipe?

I recommend using a bone-in ham for this recipe. Not only does it make for a more impressive presentation, but the bone also helps to keep the meat moist and flavorful.

Q: Can I make this recipe with pork shoulder or other cuts of meat?

While you can technically use other cuts of meat with this glaze, I highly recommend sticking with a bone-in ham for optimal results.

Q: How long does it take to make this recipe?

This recipe comes together in about 20 minutes – prep time is around 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 10 minutes.

Q: Can I store leftover glaze in the fridge or freezer?

Absolutely! Leftover glaze can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

Q: What if I don’t have apricot preserves on hand?

You can substitute apricot jam or even orange marmalade if you don’t have apricot preserves.

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