In the realm of culinary delights, few dishes can rival the mouthwatering appeal of a perfectly baked ham with brown sugar. This classic recipe, featuring a succulent spiral-sliced bone-in ham, combines the sweet notes of brown sugar, the richness of pure maple syrup, and the tangy kick of Dijon mustard. All of these flavors are elegantly seasoned with a hint of ground cinnamon and ground cloves. The result is a show-stopping centerpiece for your special occasion. So, let’s dive into the world of baked ham with brown sugar and explore the ingredients and directions that will make your next meal truly unforgettable.

Ingredients:

Let’s begin with the heart of our recipe – the ingredients. Below is a table that lists everything you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece.

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
   • Place the ham, cut-side down, in a roasting pan.
   • Cover it with foil and let it bake for an hour.
2. Craft the Glaze:
   • While the ham is baking, combine brown sugar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and cloves in a saucepan over medium heat.
   • Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves, about 2-3 minutes.
   • Let it simmer for an additional 2 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
3. Glazing Time:
   • After the ham has baked for an hour, remove it from the oven.
   • Brush the top and sides of the ham generously with half of your glaze.
4. Final Stretch:
   • Return the ham to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 30 minutes.
   • Take it out, brush with the remaining glaze, and let it bake for another 15 minutes, or until the ham is golden brown and caramelized.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Let the ham rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful meat.