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Apple Cider Glazed Ham with Cinnamon-Clove Studs

Apple Cider Glazed Ham with Cinnamon-Clove Studs is the ultimate centerpiece for any gathering, blending sweet apple cider with aromatic spices to create an unforgettable dish. The juicy, tender ham, adorned with fragrant cinnamon and clove, offers a delightful balance of flavors that will have your guests coming back for seconds. Perfect for holidays or family dinners, this show-stopping recipe promises to fill your home with cozy aromas and delicious memories.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (8 lb) bone-in ham
  • 2 cups apple cider
  • 3 cinnamon sticks
  • 12 whole cloves
  • 1 cup dark brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern.
  3. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine apple cider, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves. Stir until blended.
  4. Place the scored ham in a roasting pan and pour half of the glaze over it.
  5. Bake for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, basting every 20 minutes with remaining glaze.
  6. In the last 20 minutes of baking, increase oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) for a caramelized finish.

Nutrition

Keywords: Feel free to swap apple cider for orange juice for a citrus twist. Add crushed pineapple for a tropical flavor variation. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.