Mom'S Ham Glaze
Mom's Ham Glaze offers a delightful blend of fruity sweetness, aromatic spices, and a touch of minty freshness. Perfect for holiday dinners or special occasions, this glaze creates a beautifully caramelized, flavorful ham that appeals to family and guests alike with its rich, inviting aroma and taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the juice from the large can of fruit cocktail, brown sugar, honey, ginger ale, chopped creme de menthe, and clove powder until well combined.
- Pour the glaze over the ham every 15 minutes during baking.
- Bake the ham at 350°F for 2 hours or until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of orange juice or a teaspoon of mustard to the glaze. If you don't have clove powder, ground cinnamon can serve as a substitute. Additionally, if you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the brown sugar and increase the honey for a more natural sweetness. This glaze pairs beautifully with traditional American recipes like Jello Cranberry Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the glazed ham with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. This dish can also be complemented by serving it alongside Pistachio Surprise for dessert. For an elegant presentation, garnish the ham with fresh herbs or fruit slices.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover glaze can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. When reheating, use a saucepan over low heat to gently warm the glaze, stirring occasionally. If you have leftover ham, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat slices in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Ham Glaze contains roughly 381 calories, with 1g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of iron (10% of the Daily Value).
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 instead of ginger ale?
Yes, you can substitute ginger ale with other sodas like lemon-lime soda or even a citrus-flavored sparkling water for a different taste. Just make sure to choose something that complements the sweetness of the glaze.
How do I know when the ham is fully cooked?
To ensure the ham is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach at least 140°F for pre-cooked ham. If using a raw ham, it should reach 145°F. The glaze should be bubbling and caramelized on the surface for the best flavor.
Can I prepare the glaze in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze up to a day ahead. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container and give it a quick stir before using. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely, enhancing your dish.
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).