Step 1: Prepare the Ham
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Remove the ham from its packaging and place it in a large roasting pan. If the ham has a thick layer of skin, you can score the surface in a diamond pattern to help the glaze penetrate.
Step 2: Add Liquid to the Pan
- Pour the apple cider and water into the bottom of the roasting pan. This will help keep the ham moist while it bakes.
Step 3: Make the Glaze
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of apple cider, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the glaze to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Bake the Ham
- Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 1 hour, then remove the foil.
Step 5: Glaze the Ham
- Brush a generous amount of the apple cider BBQ glaze over the surface of the ham, making sure to get it into the scored sections.
- Return the ham to the oven and bake for an additional 30-45 minutes, basting every 15 minutes with more glaze, until the ham is heated through and caramelized. The internal temperature should reach at least 140°F (60°C).
Step 6: Serve
- Once done, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute.
- Serve the ham warm, drizzled with any remaining glaze from the pan.
Tips for Success
- Choosing the Ham: Look for a pre-cooked ham, as this recipe is designed to reheat and glaze it rather than cook it from raw.
- Glazing Frequency: The more you baste the ham with the glaze, the more flavorful and caramelized it will be. Make sure to reserve some glaze for serving.
- Storage: Leftover ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this Apple Cider BBQ Glazed Ham with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
- Consider serving it with cornbread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious glaze.
Conclusion
This Apple Cider BBQ Glazed Ham is a flavorful and impressive dish that’s perfect for any gathering. The sweet and tangy glaze complements the savory ham beautifully, making it a standout meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy this delightful recipe, and watch it become a favorite at your family gatherings!