Sam'S Baked Ham
A deliciously sweet and savory baked ham glazed with brown sugar, mustard, and fruit juice, perfect for festive occasions or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cover the ham with aluminum foil.
- Bake the whole ham at 325°F for 3 1/4 to 3 1/2 hours, or halve the ham and bake for 2 1/2 hours.
- After 45 minutes of baking, remove the ham from the oven.
- Remove the rind and score the surface of the ham.
- Cut off most of the fat.
- Stud each square with a whole clove.
- Mix 1 cup brown sugar, 1 teaspoon dry mustard, and 2 to 3 tablespoons vinegar, honey, or syrup to make a paste, then spread over the ham.
- Return the ham to the oven and bake for another 45 minutes.
- Baste the ham with fruit juice during the baking process.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter glaze, consider substituting maple syrup for the vinegar or honey in the glaze mixture. If you don't have whole cloves, ground cloves can be used sparingly, though the presentation will differ. To save time, prepare the glaze while the ham is baking, ensuring it's ready when you need to apply it.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Sam's Baked Ham with classic sides like Pennsylvania Dutch Cole Slaw or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. It also pairs beautifully with Easy Banana Muffins for a sweet touch. Consider adding a fruit compote for extra flavor contrast, and don’t forget to have plenty of crusty bread on hand to soak up the delicious juices.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover baked ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 6 months. To reheat, place the ham in a baking dish with a little water, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sam'S Baked Ham contains roughly 15 calories, with 0g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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, you can use any cured or smoked ham you prefer. Just be mindful of the size and cooking time, as some hams may require adjustments. If using a pre-cooked ham, aim for a shorter baking time to avoid drying it out.
How do I know when the ham is done baking?
The ham is done when its internal temperature reaches 140°F if pre-cooked or 160°F for raw ham. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy, inserting it into the thickest part of the ham without touching bone. Let it rest before slicing to retain juices.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before applying it to the ham, and consider warming it slightly to ensure it spreads easily.
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).