This Maple-Glazed Ham is a perfect combination of sweet and smoky flavors that really makes the ham shine. The glaze is made with pure maple syrup, which gives the ham a beautiful, sticky coating that caramelizes as it bakes. You’ll notice the rich aroma filling your kitchen as it cooks — it’s an absolute crowd-pleaser.
I love making this ham for special occasions or holiday dinners because it feels like a little celebration every time. My favorite part is brushing on the glaze multiple times during cooking, so the flavors soak in deeper. It’s a simple trick, but it makes a big difference and keeps the ham moist and tender.
Serving this ham with some roasted veggies or even a simple side of mashed potatoes always gets everyone excited to dig in. Leftovers also taste amazing in sandwiches or mixed into a hearty breakfast hash. I always find myself looking forward to the next meal after making this — it’s one of those recipes that everyone asks for again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ham: A fully cooked bone-in ham works best for this recipe. The bone adds extra flavor and helps keep the meat moist. If you prefer, boneless ham can be used, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
Pure Maple Syrup: This is the star of the glaze, offering natural sweetness and a rich flavor. If unavailable, you can substitute with maple-flavored syrup or honey for a different but still tasty glaze.
Brown Sugar: Adds depth and caramel notes. Light or dark brown sugar can be used depending on your preference for sweetness and molasses flavor.
Dijon Mustard: Gives the glaze a subtle tang that balances the sweetness. If Dijon isn’t on hand, yellow mustard or whole grain mustard are good alternatives.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Brings brightness and cuts through the sugar. White vinegar or lemon juice can work, but apple cider vinegar has a milder taste that pairs nicely here.
Spices (Cloves & Cinnamon): Optional but add warm, festive notes. If you’re not a fan or want a different flavor, try ground nutmeg or allspice instead.
How Do You Get the Ham’s Glaze Perfectly Sticky and Caramelized?
The secret is in applying the glaze gradually and controlling heat for slow caramelization.
- Score the ham so the glaze seeps into the cuts, increasing flavor.
- Brush the ham with some glaze before baking to start flavoring the surface.
- Baste every 20-30 minutes with the remaining glaze to build up a sticky coating.
- Cover the ham with foil while baking to keep it moist, then uncover during the last 20 minutes to let the sugars caramelize.
- Watch carefully during uncovered baking as the sugars can burn quickly—low and slow is best.
Following these steps will give your ham a shiny, sticky crust packed with maple flavor while keeping the meat tender and juicy inside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Roasting pan with a rack – I recommend this so the ham cooks evenly and the glaze can drip down without sticking to the pan.
- Sharp knife – helps score the ham cleanly in the diamond pattern for better glaze absorption.
- Small saucepan – for preparing and simmering your glaze until thickened.
- Brush or basting spoon – use this to apply the glaze smoothly over the ham during baking.
- Meat thermometer – ensures you cook the ham to the perfect internal temperature without overdoing it.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a splash of bourbon or brandy to the glaze for a deeper, boozy flavor that complements the sweetness.
- Mix in a teaspoon of chili flakes or cayenne pepper if you like a little heat with your sweet glaze.
- Wrap the ham with pineapple slices or attach dried apricots before baking for extra fruity sweetness and visual appeal.
- Use honey or maple-flavored syrup instead of plain maple syrup for a different floral sweetness.
Maple-Glazed Ham Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 6-8 pounds), scored in a diamond pattern
- 1 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Whole cloves (optional, for studding the ham)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 1 1/2 to 2 hours to bake, depending on the size of your ham. Allow an extra 15-20 minutes for resting before slicing and serving. Overall, plan for a total time of about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ham:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Take the ham out of its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, carefully score the surface in a diamond pattern about 1/8 inch deep. For a festive touch, you can stud whole cloves into the intersections of the cuts. This adds extra flavor and looks beautiful.
2. Make the Glaze:
In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and black pepper. Heat over medium heat, stirring now and then, until the sugar dissolves and the glaze is smooth and slightly thickened (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat once ready.
3. Bake and Glaze the Ham:
Place the ham cut side down on a rack in a roasting pan. Brush the ham generously with one-third of the glaze. Cover the ham loosely with foil to keep it moist. Bake for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, depending on the size, basting with the remaining glaze every 20-30 minutes. Uncover the ham during the last 20 minutes of baking to let the glaze caramelize and become sticky and delicious. Keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn.
4. Rest and Serve:
When the ham’s internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C), remove it from the oven. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes so the juices settle inside. Slice the ham and serve warm, spooning any extra glaze or pan juices over the slices for extra flavor.
Can I Use Frozen Ham for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the ham in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours before cooking. Pat it dry before scoring and glazing to ensure the best texture and flavor.
How Should I Store Leftover Maple-Glazed Ham?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a little extra glaze or pan juices to keep it moist.
Can I Make the Glaze Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The glaze can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. Warm it slightly before brushing onto the ham during baking to help it spread evenly.
What Other Sides Pair Well with Maple-Glazed Ham?
This ham goes great with roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad to balance the sweetness of the glaze.