Apricot Baked Ham
Sweet and savory apricot glazed baked ham with cloves, perfect for festive gatherings or special occasions, offering a flavorful combination of fruity, spicy, and smoky notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Score the surface of the ham with shallow diamond-shaped cuts and insert cloves into the cuts.
- Combine apricot preserves and ground mustard; spread the mixture over the ham.
- Pat brown sugar over the apricot mixture and place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan.
- Bake uncovered at 325°F for 20 minutes per pound or until the ham is heated through and the thermometer reads 140°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider marinating the ham in the apricot preserves and mustard mixture overnight. If you don't have apricot preserves, peach or orange marmalade can be great substitutes. Additionally, if you prefer a little spice, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brown sugar can enhance the taste. This dish pairs wonderfully with Helen Depriests' Baked Beans for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the apricot baked ham with sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It also pairs well with traditional American recipes like Texas Cornbread Casserole, which complements the sweetness of the ham. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh herbs or serve alongside a fruit chutney for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover ham should be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 5 days. To reheat, slice the ham and place it in a baking dish with a bit of water or broth to keep it moist. Cover with foil and heat in a 325°F oven until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apricot Baked Ham contains roughly 2021 calories, with 3g protein, 519g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (47% of the Daily Value), iron (41% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of ham for this recipe?
Yes, while a fully cooked ham works best, you can also use a boneless ham or a spiral-cut ham. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary based on the weight and type of ham you choose.
How can I tell when the ham is done without a thermometer?
If you don't have a thermometer, check the ham by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the meat; it should be warm to the touch. The juices should run clear, not pink, indicating that it is fully heated.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ham up to the point of baking, then cover it and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to serve, simply take it out, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).