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There’s something utterly delightful about the aroma of a warm, caramelized Honey Baked Ham filling the kitchen. This traditional dish often steals the show at holiday gatherings, especially during Easter, when families come together to celebrate around a beautifully set table. While eating out can be convenient, there’s an unmatched joy in creating homemade dishes that flood your home with comfort and nostalgia.

I’m excited to share my easy-to-follow copycat Honey Baked Ham recipe, which captures that same irresistible sweet and smoky flavor you love at the store, all while saving you time and money. With just a handful of pantry staples and a simple glaze mixture, you can turn a humble spiral-cut ham into a stunning centerpiece that will impress your friends and family alike. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this comforting classic—you’ll be craving the leftovers long after the feast!

Why is Copycat Honey Baked Ham a Must-Try?

Rich, Nostalgic Flavor: Each bite of this ham delivers a comforting blend of sweet and savory that transports you to family gatherings.

Effortless Preparation: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can master this dish.

Stunning Presentation: The caramelized crust and juicy interior make this ham a show-stopping centerpiece for any meal.

Meal Versatility: Perfect for holidays or Sunday dinners, it pairs beautifully with sides like mashed potatoes or fresh salads.

Cost-Saving Delight: Enjoy the restaurant-quality taste at home while saving money—what’s not to love?

This Copycat Honey Baked Ham will leave everyone asking for seconds, and trust me, you’ll be delighted to share those amazing leftovers!

Copycat Honey Baked Ham Ingredients

For the Glaze
• Honey – Sweetness and glaze base; ensure it’s pure honey for the best flavor.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; use salted butter if unsalted isn’t available, but reduce added salt.
• Dijon Mustard – Enhances flavor depth with tanginess; yellow mustard can be used if Dijon is not available.
• Onion Powder – Provides savory depth; fresh onion can be substituted, adjusting the amount accordingly.
• Sweet Paprika – Adds sweetness and color; smoked paprika can replace it for a smokier flavor.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds subtle heat and flavor; pre-ground pepper can be used.
• Ground Cinnamon – Contributes warmth and sweetness; no direct substitution; omit if desired.
• Ground Ginger – Adds warmth and a bit of spice; fresh ginger can be used in a pinch, but adjust the amount.
• Ground Cloves – Provides a warm, aromatic flavor; omit if preferred; a little goes a long way.
• Ground Nutmeg – Adds a nutty, sweet profile; can be omitted if not available.

For the Ham
• Smoked Half Bone-In Spiral-Cut Ham (8 lbs) – The main ingredient; bone-in helps retain moisture during cooking; avoid boneless hams for best results.
• Granulated Sugar – To create the caramelized crust; brown sugar could be used for added flavor.

This Copycat Honey Baked Ham is not only a fantastic centerpiece but also a dish sure to impress, making your gatherings memorable!

How to Make Copycat Honey Baked Ham

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for roasting the ham. This temperature allows for even cooking and the development of that delicious caramelized crust.
Prepare the Glaze: In a bowl, combine honey, melted unsalted butter, Dijon mustard, and your spices. Mix until it’s smooth and all ingredients are well incorporated. This glaze will be the star of your ham!
Apply the Glaze: Generously brush the glaze over the surface of the ham, making sure to get it in between the slices as well. This allows every bite to be infused with that sweet and smoky flavor.
Cover and Bake: Loosely cover the glazed ham with aluminum foil to keep it moist during the first part of baking. Place it in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes per pound, or until heated through.
Caramelize the Crust: In the last 30 minutes of baking, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle granulated sugar evenly over the top. Return it to the oven to roast until the ham is golden brown and the sugar has formed a crisp crust.

Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Copycat Honey Baked Ham

Fridge: Store leftover Copycat Honey Baked Ham in an airtight container for up to 7 days to maintain its freshness and flavor.

Freezer: Wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, slice the ham and place it in a baking dish with a little broth or water, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) until heated through.

Serving: Portion the ham into servings before storing to make it easy to reheat just what you need for quick meals or snacks!

Copycat Honey Baked Ham Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, this is your chance to add a personal touch to your festive ham!

Citrus Zest: Incorporate orange or lemon zest into the glaze for a zingy twist that brightens the flavors. This addition complements the sweetness beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze for a delightful heat that balances the sweetness.
Maple Syrup: Swap some honey with maple syrup for a unique flavor profile. It adds a rich earthiness that pairs wonderfully with the ham’s smokiness.
Herbal Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into your glaze. These aromatic flavors will elevate your dish, making it even more fragrant as it bakes.
Brown Sugar Touch: Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for the crust to enhance the caramel flavor. It creates a deeper, richer sweetness that everyone will love.
Apple Cider: Substitute part of the honey with apple cider for a fruity twist that adds a new layer of flavor and moistness to your ham.
Pineapple Glaze: Combine crushed pineapple with the glaze ingredients for a tropical touch. This will add sweetness and a hint of tartness, creating a wonderful balance.
Bourbon Boost: For an adult twist, add a splash of bourbon to the glaze. The whiskey flavor deepens the sweetness and creates a complex taste you and your guests will rave about!

Expert Tips for Copycat Honey Baked Ham

Uniform Crust: Pat the sugar evenly over the ham before caramelizing. This ensures a beautifully consistent crust on your Copycat Honey Baked Ham.
Juicy Perfection: Avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
Glaze Generosity: Make sure to apply enough glaze, letting it seep into the slices for maximum flavor. Don’t skimp on this vital step!
Leftover Magic: Save the bone and any leftover meat to create comforting soups or sandwiches. Nothing goes to waste and the flavors deepen with time!
Make-Ahead Savvy: Prepare the glaze a day prior to enhance the flavors further, applying it just before cooking for maximum impact.

What to Serve with Copycat Honey Baked Ham?

Savoring each bite of this sumptuous ham is only the beginning; let’s enhance your meal with delectable side dishes.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery, velvety texture is the perfect complement to the ham’s rich glaze, providing a comforting mouthfeel that pairs beautifully.
Honey Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness echoes the ham’s flavors, while the caramelization offers a delightful contrast in texture, bringing a pop of color to your plate.
Roasted Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans add freshness and crunch, cutting through the sweetness of the ham and making each bite balanced and exciting.
Fresh Garden Salad: A vibrant salad filled with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast and enhances the overall dining experience.
Baked Macaroni and Cheese: The creamy, cheesy goodness introduces a rich flavor and comforting element, combining beautifully with the honeyed notes of the ham.
Warm Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy rolls are perfect for mopping up any remaining glaze or drippings, adding a delightful carb element that everyone loves.
Sparkling Cider: A glass of sparkling cider offers a sweet and bubbly beverage that harmonizes with the ham’s flavors, making it a festive choice for any gathering.
Apple Crisp: A warm, cinnamon-spiced apple crisp can be a sweet ending to your meal, giving a delightful contrast to the savory main course.

This harmonious combination of flavors and textures ensures an unforgettable meal that will keep your family coming back for more.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Copycat Honey Baked Ham ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious minutes in the kitchen on the big day! You can create the glaze up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only allows the flavors to meld beautifully but also saves time when you’re ready to put the ham in the oven. For the ham itself, you can apply the glaze up to 12 hours before cooking; just refrigerate the glazed ham, loosely covered with foil to maintain moisture. When it’s time to cook, simply preheat your oven and bake as instructed, ensuring a delightful, hassle-free experience that keeps your Copycat Honey Baked Ham just as delicious!

Copycat Honey Baked Ham Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best ham for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and moisture, I recommend using a smoked half bone-in spiral-cut ham, ideally around 8 lbs. The bone helps retain moisture during cooking, ensuring the final product is juicy and flavorful. Avoid boneless hams, as they can dry out more easily.

How should I store leftover Copycat Honey Baked Ham?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days. Be sure to slice the ham before storing for easy reheating. To maximize flavor and texture, wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil for the best freezer storage, where it can last up to 3 months.

Can I freeze the ham? What’s the best way to do it?
Very! To freeze your Copycat Honey Baked Ham, first slice it into portions. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn. Remember to label each portion with the date, and for the best flavor and texture, use within 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

How can I reheat leftover ham without drying it out?
To reheat, slice the ham and place it in a baking dish with a splash of broth or water to create moisture. Cover the dish with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) until heated through, typically about 20-30 minutes. This method keeps the ham juicy and flavorful while avoiding any dryness!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re concerned about allergies, check the labels on your Dijon mustard as some brands may contain allergens like gluten or soy. For sugar considerations, you can opt for a sugar substitute. Additionally, remember to keep cooked ham away from pets, as salty and sugary foods can be harmful to them.

What should I do if the glaze isn’t caramelizing properly?
No worries! If your glaze isn’t developing a nice crust, ensure you’re spreading the granulated sugar evenly over the top before caramelizing. Additionally, double-check the oven’s temperature; it should be at 325°F (163°C). If necessary, increase your oven’s temperature to 350°F (177°C) for the last few minutes of baking, but keep an eye on it to avoid burning!