Can I use a non-spiral cut ham for this recipe?

Yes, though spiral hams work best because the glaze can penetrate between slices. If using a non-spiral ham, score the surface in a diamond pattern about 1/4-inch deep to help the glaze penetrate and create a beautiful presentation.

What can I substitute for bourbon if I don't want to use alcohol?

Apple juice makes an excellent alcohol-free substitute. You can also try apple cider, pineapple juice, or even a good quality ginger ale. Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to mimic some of the complexity that bourbon would provide.

How do I know when my ham is fully heated through?

Since spiral hams come pre-cooked, you're really just heating it through. Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part (but not touching bone) and look for 140°F. Remember that ham will continue cooking slightly during the rest period.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the glaze up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Warm it gently on the stove or microwave before using it to restore its liquid consistency for easy basting.

Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham Recipe

Name: Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 2 h 10 min
Total time: 2 h 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pre-cooked (8-10 pounds) spiral ham (can be plain or brown sugar coated); ¼ cup Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon light brown sugar, packed; 1 tablespoon paprika; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon chili powder; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon dry mustard; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper; ½ cup (1 stick / 113 g) unsalted butter; 1 cup (200 g) light brown sugar, packed; ½ cup bourbon; 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup

This Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham transforms an ordinary pre-cooked spiral ham into a showstopping centerpiece worthy of your most special gatherings. The combination of sweet maple syrup, warming bourbon, and a perfect blend of spices creates a caramelized exterior that will have everyone asking for seconds. Despite its impressive appearance and complex flavors, this recipe requires minimal hands-on time, making it perfect for holidays or Sunday dinners when you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Impressive but effortless: This recipe takes a store-bought spiral ham and elevates it to restaurant quality with minimal effort—perfect for hosting when you want to mingle with guests instead of being stuck in the kitchen.
Perfectly balanced flavors: The sweet and savory combination of maple, bourbon, and spices creates layers of flavor that enhance the ham without overpowering it.
Foolproof technique: Even if you’re not confident in the kitchen, the step-by-step basting method ensures a perfectly glazed ham every time.
Versatile centerpiece: This ham works for Easter, Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any special dinner where you want something memorable but manageable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Spiral ham: Choose pre-cooked for convenience. The spiral cuts allow the glaze to penetrate between each slice for maximum flavor.
Dijon mustard: Creates the perfect base layer that helps the spice rub stick while adding a subtle tangy note that balances the sweetness.
Brown sugar: Appears in both the rub and glaze, providing caramelization and that rich molasses-like sweetness.
Paprika: Adds a gorgeous color and subtle smoky depth to the spice rub.
Kosher salt: Enhances all the other flavors and brings balance to the sweetness.
Spice blend (chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, dry mustard, black pepper, cayenne): Creates a complex flavor profile that complements the ham without any single spice dominating.
Butter: Forms the rich base of the glaze, helping it coat the ham beautifully.
Bourbon: Adds depth, a subtle oakiness, and slight caramel notes that intensify as it reduces.
Maple syrup: Use pure maple syrup for that authentic woodsy sweetness that pairs perfectly with the bourbon.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Flavor Twists

Try adding orange zest and juice to the glaze for a citrus twist, or substitute apple cider for half the bourbon for a fruitier profile.

Spice Adjustments

For a milder version, omit the cayenne pepper. For more heat, double the cayenne or add a dash of hot sauce to the glaze.

Alcohol-Free Version

Replace the bourbon with apple juice, pineapple juice, or even cola for a family-friendly option that still delivers great flavor.

Make It Fruity

Add minced dried fruits like apricots or cherries to the glaze during the last 30 minutes of cooking for texture and extra sweetness.

How to Make Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham

Step 1: Prepare the Ham

Preheat your oven to 325°F, positioning the rack in the lower third to accommodate the ham. Place the spiral ham in a roasting pan with cut side facing up, then spread Dijon mustard evenly over the entire surface.

Step 2: Season with Spice Rub

Combine all the spice rub ingredients in a small bowl, mixing thoroughly. Sprinkle this aromatic mixture all over the ham, pressing gently to help it adhere to the mustard layer.

Step 3: Initial Roasting

Transfer the ham to the preheated oven and let it roast for 30 minutes. This initial roasting period allows the spices to begin releasing their flavors before introducing the glaze.

Step 4: Prepare the Bourbon Maple Glaze

While the ham begins roasting, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add brown sugar, maple syrup, and bourbon, stirring constantly for 5-7 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly. The aroma will be incredible!

Step 5: Glaze and Baste

After the ham’s initial 30-minute roast, generously baste it with the bourbon glaze. Return to the oven and continue roasting, basting every 30 minutes with more glaze. This repeated glazing creates those delicious layers of flavor and beautiful caramelization.

Step 6: Final Glazing

Once the ham reaches 140°F internally (after about 2 hours total), pour any remaining glaze over the top and return to the oven for a final 10 minutes to set the glaze.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing. This crucial resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist, tender ham.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use a meat thermometer: This is non-negotiable for perfectly cooked ham. Look for 140°F as your target temperature.
Line your roasting pan: Use heavy-duty foil for easier cleanup—the sugars in the glaze can caramelize and become difficult to scrub off.
Reserve some glaze: Set aside about 1/4 cup of the glaze before basting and warm it just before serving as a sauce for the table.
Watch for burning: If the ham is browning too quickly, tent it loosely with foil while continuing to baste.
Let it come to room temperature: Remove the ham from the refrigerator about an hour before cooking for more even heating.

How to Serve

Complementary Sides

This glazed ham pairs beautifully with scalloped potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a bright spring salad with strawberries and goat cheese.

Bread Options

Serve with warm dinner rolls, buttermilk biscuits, or cornbread to soak up any extra glaze on the plate.

Garnish Ideas

Present your ham on a platter surrounded by fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, orange slices, or even caramelized pineapple rings for a classic touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate leftover ham in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For best flavor, drizzle some of the pan drippings over the slices before storing.

Freezing

Slice leftover ham and place in freezer bags with as much air removed as possible. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.

Reheating

For best results, reheat ham slices in a skillet with a splash of water, covered with foil, in a 300°F oven until just warmed through (about 10 minutes). This prevents drying out. Alternatively, microwave gently with a damp paper towel covering the ham.

FAQs

Can I use a non-spiral cut ham for this recipe?

Yes, though spiral hams work best because the glaze can penetrate between slices. If using a non-spiral ham, score the surface in a diamond pattern about 1/4-inch deep to help the glaze penetrate and create a beautiful presentation.
What can I substitute for bourbon if I don’t want to use alcohol?

Apple juice makes an excellent alcohol-free substitute. You can also try apple cider, pineapple juice, or even a good quality ginger ale. Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to mimic some of the complexity that bourbon would provide.
How do I know when my ham is fully heated through?

Since spiral hams come pre-cooked, you’re really just heating it through. Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part (but not touching bone) and look for 140°F. Remember that ham will continue cooking slightly during the rest period.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the glaze up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Warm it gently on the stove or microwave before using it to restore its liquid consistency for easy basting.

Final Thoughts

This Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham transforms an everyday ingredient into something truly special with surprisingly little effort. The combination of sweet, savory, and just a hint of heat creates a memorable centerpiece that’s perfect for holidays or anytime you want to treat family and friends to something extraordinary. Don’t be surprised if this becomes your signature dish that everyone requests year after year!