Maple Ham
Maple Ham offers a sweet and savory flavor profile with tender ham studded with cloves and glazed with maple syrup, perfect for intimate gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut off excess fat from the ham slice.
- Stud the meat with cloves every inch or two.
- Place the ham in a greased baking pan the same size as the ham slice.
- Pour maple syrup over the ham.
- Bake, uncovered, in a 300°F oven for 1 hour or until the meat is very tender.
- Baste the ham occasionally during baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, use high-quality maple syrup; this will enhance the sweetness of the ham. If you don't have cloves, consider using allspice as a substitute. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon for warmth. Make sure to baste the ham every 20 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful. If you're short on time, try using a pre-cooked ham slice for quicker baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve maple ham alongside sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh 24 Hour Tossed Salad for a balanced meal. It also pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or glazed carrots. For a festive touch, consider adding a fruit compote or cranberry sauce on the side to complement the sweetness of the ham. Enjoy it with family for a delightful dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover maple ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the ham and place it in a baking dish with a little bit of maple syrup or broth to keep it moist. Cover with foil and heat in a 300°F oven until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maple Ham contains roughly 302 calories, with 2g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), iron (23% of the Daily Value), and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. 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 syrup for this recipe?
Yes, while maple syrup is traditional, you can substitute with honey or agave syrup for a different flavor profile. However, keep in mind that this may alter the sweetness and texture of the finished dish. Adjust the quantity based on your taste preference, as different syrups can vary in sweetness.
How can I tell when the ham is done cooking?
The ham is done when it's very tender and reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the ham. If you prefer a more caramelized exterior, you can increase the oven temperature for the last 10 minutes of baking.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ham up to a day in advance. Simply follow the steps up until baking, cover the ham tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bring it to room temperature before baking, and adjust the baking time as needed. This makes it a convenient option for holiday meals or special occasions.
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).