Flavorful Maple Dijon Glazed Ham Recipe Easy Perfect for Holiday Feasts

Let me tell you, the scent of a maple Dijon glazed ham roasting in the oven is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. There’s this magical moment when that sweet and tangy aroma fills the kitchen, wrapping around you like a cozy holiday sweater. The first time I baked this flavorful maple Dijon glazed ham, I was instantly hooked—the kind of moment where you pause, take a deep breath, and just smile because you know you’re onto something truly special.

Years ago, when I was knee-high to a grasshopper, holiday feasts meant simple roasts and side dishes, but this recipe came into my life on a chilly December evening. I was trying to recreate the perfect centerpiece for our family gathering after spotting a similar glaze at a friend’s potluck. Honestly, I wish I’d discovered this recipe years ago—it’s dangerously easy and delivers pure, nostalgic comfort that brings everyone to the table.

My family couldn’t stop sneaking slices off the cooling rack (and I can’t really blame them). Whether it’s for a holiday feast, a festive brunch, or just to brighten up your Pinterest cookie board, this maple Dijon glazed ham fits the bill perfectly. After a few rounds of testing (in the name of research, of course), it became a staple for family gatherings and gifting. This ham feels like a warm hug on a plate, and trust me, you’re going to want to bookmark this one.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Honestly, this flavorful maple Dijon glazed ham recipe is one of those gems that delivers on every front. After countless trials and family feedback, I can say this recipe is chef-tested and family-approved, blending sweetness, tang, and savory notes beautifully. Here’s why you’ll be head-over-heels:

• Quick & Easy: Comes together in under 20 minutes of prep, perfect for busy holiday chaos or last-minute celebrations.
• Simple Ingredients: No fancy or hard-to-find items—just pantry staples and a few fresh touches.
• Perfect for Holiday Feasts: Whether it’s Christmas, Easter, or a special Sunday dinner, this ham steals the show.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike rave about the balance of sweet maple and sharp Dijon mustard.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The glaze caramelizes just right, creating a beautiful crust while keeping the ham juicy and tender inside.

What sets this recipe apart? The secret is in the glaze. Combining pure maple syrup with tangy Dijon mustard and a hint of brown sugar creates a flavor profile that’s both classic and a little unexpected. It’s not just another glazed ham—it’s the one you’ll want to make forever. After one bite, you might find yourself closing your eyes and savoring the moment. This recipe turns simple comfort food into a memorable centerpiece without the fuss.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Most of these you probably have in your kitchen already, which makes it a no-brainer for holiday prep.

• Bone-in fully cooked ham (about 8-10 pounds) – Look for a spiral-cut ham for easy slicing
• Pure maple syrup (½ cup) – I recommend Grade A amber for the best flavor
• Dijon mustard (¼ cup) – Adds that perfect tang
• Brown sugar (⅓ cup, packed) – For that lovely caramelized sweetness
• Apple cider vinegar (1 tablespoon) – Balances the glaze with a subtle acidity
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon) – Just a hint for depth
• Black pepper (½ teaspoon, freshly ground) – Adds a little kick
• Ground cloves (optional, ¼ teaspoon) – For a warm, holiday spice note
• Water (½ cup) – To keep the ham moist while baking

Ingredient tips: If you prefer, swap the brown sugar with coconut sugar for a slightly different sweetness. You can also substitute the apple cider vinegar with fresh lemon juice if that’s what you have on hand. For a dairy-free glaze, this recipe already fits the bill perfectly!

Equipment Needed

• Roasting pan – A sturdy pan with a rack is ideal to keep the ham elevated and allow even cooking.
• Basting brush – For spreading that glorious maple Dijon glaze evenly.
• Meat thermometer – Absolutely worth it to check internal temperature, ensuring juiciness.
• Aluminum foil – To tent the ham during baking and keep it moist.
• Sharp carving knife – For slicing the ham thin and pretty.

If you don’t have a roasting rack, you can improvise by placing a bed of sliced onions or carrots under the ham to lift it off the pan. For budget-friendly options, many stores carry basic roasting pans for under $20 that work just fine. I’ve used both heavy-duty and disposable pans; the heavier ones help with even heat distribution but the disposable ones are great for easy cleanup, especially during the holidays.

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This moderate temperature helps cook the ham through without drying it out.
2. Prepare the ham: Remove the ham from packaging and pat dry with paper towels. Score the surface in a diamond pattern about ¼ inch deep—this allows the glaze to seep in and creates a beautiful presentation.
3. Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup pure maple syrup, ¼ cup Dijon mustard, ⅓ cup packed brown sugar, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, and optional ¼ teaspoon ground cloves until smooth.
4. Place the ham on a rack in your roasting pan. Pour ½ cup of water into the bottom of the pan to keep the environment moist.
5. Brush the ham generously with about half of the glaze, making sure to get into the scored lines. This is where the magic begins!
6. Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the glaze from burning during the initial baking.
7. Bake the ham for about 1 hour and 15 minutes (15 minutes per pound), basting with the remaining glaze every 20 minutes. Remove the foil during the last 20 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize and form a sticky, golden crust.
8. Check internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the ham (without touching bone). It should read 140°F (60°C) when done.
9. Rest the ham: Once out of the oven, tent loosely with foil and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping each bite juicy and tender.

Pro tip: If your glaze starts to darken too much before the ham is cooked through, tent it back with foil and continue baking. The slow roasting is key to moist, flavorful meat.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Let’s face it, making a glazed ham can feel intimidating, but there are a few tricks I’ve learned that make it downright foolproof. First, always score the ham’s surface! It’s not just for looks—it allows the glaze to penetrate deeper, infusing flavor through every bite.

When basting, don’t be shy. Brush on the glaze several times during cooking to build that irresistible sticky coating. I once tried glazing just once and ended up with a dull crust—lesson learned!

Keep an eye on the oven temperature. Too hot, and the sugars in the glaze burn before the ham heats through. Too low, and you lose that caramelized finish. 325°F (163°C) hits the sweet spot.

Multitasking tip: While the ham bakes, prepare your sides or set the table—just make sure to check on the ham every 20 minutes for glazing and moisture. Using a meat thermometer takes the guesswork out of cooking time, especially with varying ham sizes.

Finally, resting the ham after baking is key. I used to rush slicing right out of the oven and ended up with dry edges. Letting it rest feels like a small indulgence but pays off big time.

Variations & Adaptations

This flavorful maple Dijon glazed ham is a versatile recipe that welcomes some fun twists and tweaks. Here are a few variations I’ve tried or recommend:

• Gluten-Free Version: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but double-check your mustard and vinegar labels just in case.
• Spicy Kick: Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to your glaze for a subtle heat that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
• Orange Maple Glaze: Swap the apple cider vinegar for freshly squeezed orange juice and add a tablespoon of orange zest for a bright citrus twist.
• Smoky Flavor: Mix in 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika to the glaze for a warm, smoky note that adds depth.
• Slow Cooker Option: If you want hands-off, place the glazed ham in a slow cooker on low for 4-5 hours, basting once halfway through. It won’t get as caramelized but will be juicy and infused with flavor.

Personally, I love the orange maple glaze on Easter when I want something a little lighter but still festive. It’s a nice change of pace and just as crowd-pleasing!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve your flavorful maple Dijon glazed ham warm or at room temperature, sliced thin for the best texture. Pair it with classic sides like roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a tangy cranberry sauce to complement the sweet and tangy glaze.

Leftovers? No worries! Wrap slices tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making for tasty sandwiches or ham-and-cheese omelets.

For longer storage, freeze the ham slices in freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the oven at 275°F (135°C), covered with foil to avoid drying out.

Reheating tip: Brush a little extra maple syrup or mustard on the slices before warming to freshen up the glaze and keep that sticky, flavorful coating alive.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This maple Dijon glazed ham provides a hearty dose of protein, making it a satisfying centerpiece for any holiday meal. One serving (about 3 ounces or 85 grams) contains approximately 180 calories, 20 grams of protein, 6 grams of fat, and 5 grams of sugar from the glaze.

Key ingredients like pure maple syrup add natural sweetness along with antioxidants, while Dijon mustard contributes a small dose of selenium and magnesium. The ham itself is a great source of B vitamins and minerals like zinc and iron.

For those mindful of sodium, choose a low-sodium ham if available, as traditional cured hams can be salty. This recipe balances that saltiness with sweet and tangy flavors that won’t overwhelm your palate.

Allergen note: This recipe is free from gluten, dairy, nuts, and eggs, making it accessible for many dietary preferences.

Conclusion

To wrap it up, this flavorful maple Dijon glazed ham is a recipe you’ll want to keep in your holiday rotation. It’s simple, reliably delicious, and has a way of bringing people together around the table. Whether you stick to the classic glaze or try one of the fun variations, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

I love this recipe because it feels like a warm, comforting gift every time I make it—plus, it’s not complicated, which means less stress and more savoring. Now it’s your turn! Give it a try, tweak it to your taste, and let me know how it goes.

Don’t forget to share your maple Dijon glazed ham photos or any cool twists you come up with—I’d love to hear from you. Happy feasting!

FAQs

How long does it take to cook a maple Dijon glazed ham?

Plan on about 15 minutes per pound at 325°F (163°C). For an 8-pound ham, that’s roughly 2 hours, including glazing and resting time.

Can I use a boneless ham for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Just adjust cooking time slightly as boneless hams tend to cook faster. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).

Is it okay to use bottled maple-flavored syrup instead of pure maple syrup?

For the best flavor and caramelization, pure maple syrup is recommended. Bottled maple-flavored syrups often contain additives and won’t caramelize as nicely.

Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! Make the glaze up to 2 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature and whisk before using.

How do I store leftover ham to keep it moist?

Wrap the slices tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container with a little leftover glaze or broth to retain moisture. Refrigerate and consume within 5 days.

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