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Thinly sliced ham with a rich caramelized crust, displayed on a white serving plate.

Copycat Honey Baked Ham

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Recreate the iconic Honey Baked Ham at home with this simple recipe. Featuring a sweet, spiced glaze and tender, juicy ham, it’s perfect for holidays or any special occasion.
10 Servings

Ingredients

  • 1 bone-in spiral sliced ham 6–8 lbs
  • 2 tablespoons butter melted
  • ¼ cup honey
  • 1 cup light brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions
 

Prepare the Ham

  1. Begin by trimming any excess fat from the ham if necessary. Place the ham in a slow cooker.

Create the Base Coating

  1. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and honey. Mix thoroughly, then rub the mixture over the entire surface of the ham, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Work the mixture into the slices for maximum flavor.

Cook the Ham

  1. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Cook the ham for 4–5 hours, allowing it to become tender and infused with flavor.

Prepare the Glaze Mixture

  1. As the ham nears the end of its cooking time, preheat the broiler on high. Line a roasting pan with aluminum foil for easier cleanup. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, garlic powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, paprika, and salt. Mix until uniform.

Apply the Glaze

  1. Transfer the ham to the prepared roasting pan. Press half of the sugar-spice mixture onto the top of the ham, ensuring it adheres.

Broil the Ham

  1. Place the ham under the broiler and cook for approximately 3 minutes, or until the sugar mixture bubbles and caramelizes. Monitor closely to avoid burning.

Create the Final Glaze

  1. In a small saucepan, combine the remaining sugar-spice mixture with 3 tablespoons of the cooking liquid from the slow cooker (or water). Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches a boil. Let it boil for 1 minute before removing it from the heat.

Apply the Final Glaze and Broil Again

  1. Brush the thickened glaze over the ham and return it to the broiler for an additional 1–2 minutes, just until glossy and caramelized.

Rest and Serve

  1. Allow the ham to rest for at least 5 minutes before serving. This step ensures the juices redistribute evenly, resulting in tender and flavorful slices.

Notes

To make this recipe gluten-free, confirm that all ingredients, including the honey, spices, and ham, are certified gluten-free. Double-check product labels for hidden sources of gluten.
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