Bring Magic and Warmth to Your Table with Every Slice
There is something undeniably special about those holiday moments when friends and family gather around a table aglow with laughter, anticipation, and the irresistible aroma of a centerpiece dish. If you’re searching for a way to infuse your festive spread with true magic, let me introduce you to a ham that’s destined to become a new tradition: glazed with rich maple, bourbon, and warming spices, it’s a harmonious blend of comfort and celebration.
Why You’ll Love This Maple-Bourbon Glazed Ham
This ham is more than a meal—it’s a memory in the making. Its glaze is a tapestry of flavors: pure maple syrup brings gentle sweetness, brown sugar a caramel undertone, bourbon a smoky depth, and orange zest a bright, citrusy twist. Cloves and paprika add a whisper of warmth, and a pinch of cayenne, if you dare, offers a subtle kick that lingers on the palate.
Ingredient Spotlight: The Glaze
- 1½ cups pure maple syrup
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup bourbon (Makersmark is my pick—optional, but its depth is divine)
- 2 tbsp stone-ground mustard (Inglehofferbrand for extra flavor)
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- ½ tsp ground cloves
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Pinch of cayenne (optional, for a gentle heat)
- Zest of 1 orange
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Glaze: In a saucepan over medium heat, stir together all glaze ingredients. Let the mixture simmer gently for 8–10 minutes, swirling occasionally, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Prep the Ham: Pat your ham dry. Brush a layer of stone-ground mustard over the surface, then sprinkle on your favorite BBQ rub (I use Goldensteer All Shook Up for extra oomph).
- Smoke the Ham: Place the ham in your smoker set to 250°F. Smoke until the internal temperature reads 120°F.
- Glaze Generously: For the last 30–45 minutes, brush the ham lavishly with glaze every 10–15 minutes. This builds up that glossy, caramelized finish everyone fights over.
- Finish & Rest: Continue smoking until the ham reaches 140°F at the thickest part. Remove from the smoker, tent loosely with foil, and let rest for 10 minutes.
- Serve: Carve, drizzle with any extra glaze, and serve to a round of applause!
Tips for Success
- Use a digital thermometer for spot-on doneness—no one wants overcooked ham!
- For a little extra heat, add more cayenne to your glaze.
- Leftover glaze is spectacular over roasted vegetables or even spooned atop biscuits.
Pairings & Serving Ideas
This ham shines with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a bright winter slaw. For drinks, a glass of full-bodied red or sparkling apple cider brings the meal together beautifully.
