Cola Glazed Ham
A tender, flavorful ham glazed with sweet cola and brown sugar, studded with cloves for a festive touch. Perfect for family gatherings and holiday feasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the ham overnight.
- Place the ham rind side down in a roasting pan.
- Pour over all but 3 tablespoons of cola.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 2 1/2 hours, basting frequently.
- Remove the ham from the oven and let cool for 15 minutes.
- Remove rind from ham and score the fat to a depth of 1/2 inch.
- Insert a clove in the center of every other diamond on the ham.
- Mix the remaining cola with dark brown sugar and spoon over the ham.
- Raise oven temperature to 375°F and bake for an additional 5 minutes, basting frequently.
- Allow the ham to stand for 15 minutes before slicing.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to the cola glaze. If you don’t have dark brown sugar, light brown sugar can work as a substitute, though it will be less rich. Ensure the ham is fully submerged in the cola during baking for even flavor distribution. Basting frequently is key to achieving a moist ham, so keep an eye on it.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cola glazed ham alongside classic sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or cornbread for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with Awesome Corn Chowder for a comforting spread. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor. This dish is perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cola glazed ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, slice the ham and place it in a baking dish, covering it with foil to retain moisture. Heat in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cola Glazed Ham contains roughly 726 calories, with 1g protein, 189g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (83% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. It also contributes 5g 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 soda for the glaze?
Yes, you can experiment with different sodas like root beer or ginger ale for a unique twist on the glaze. Each will impart its own flavor profile, creating a different taste experience while still complementing the savory ham.
How can I tell when the ham is fully cooked?
To ensure the ham is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 145°F for safe consumption. Additionally, the meat should be tender and easily pulled apart when done. Allow resting time before slicing for best results.
Can I prepare the ham in advance?
Absolutely! You can soak and glaze the ham a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before baking. This can save time on the day of serving and allows the flavors to meld even more.
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).