Irresistible Maple Pecan Glazed Ham: The Perfect Holiday Centerpiece Recipe
Prepare to impress with this truly irresistible pecan-glazed ham! Boasting a rich, sweet maple glaze and a delectable pecan brown sugar topping, this stunning ham is not just a dish, but a culinary masterpiece guaranteed to be the undisputed star of your holiday table, special occasion, or even an elevated family dinner. Its glistening crust and juicy interior promise a memorable experience with every slice.
If you’re on the hunt for a versatile ham recipe with a sweet, savory glaze that harmonizes beautifully with an array of classic side dishes, then look no further. This maple pecan glazed ham is your perfect solution for a festive holiday feast. For those who prefer the golden touch of honey, my spiral honey ham recipe offers a delightful alternative, but for unparalleled pecan praline goodness, stick right here!
To truly elevate the experience, I love surrounding our ham with chopped sweet potatoes while it bakes. This allows the potatoes to slowly absorb all the incredible flavors from the pecan praline-inspired glaze, transforming a simple side into a taste sensation. This spiral-sliced bone-in ham also pairs exquisitely with a generous serving of sweet potato casserole with pecan topping, tender crockpot glazed carrots, rich creamed spinach, and a basket of warm, fluffy potato rolls.
With the festive season often calling for a showstopping main course, this fantastic pecan praline ham recipe arrives just in time. It makes an amazing holiday dinner centerpiece, a superb main course for any special occasion, or simply a delicious way to make an everyday family dinner feel extraordinary. The combination of succulent ham, sweet maple, and crunchy pecans creates a flavor profile that is truly unforgettable.
One thing is absolutely certain whenever you serve this juicy pecan ham with its sweet maple pecan glaze: your entire family will fall in love with it. Much like the rave reviews for my air fryer ham with maple pineapple glaze, this recipe is destined to become a beloved tradition.
Despite its impressive appearance and rich flavor, this recipe is surprisingly simple, requiring only 5 basic ingredients and a mere 20 minutes of active prep time. This efficiency ensures you’ll have ample time to focus on other festive preparations while your magnificent spiral-sliced ham, infused with that incredible pecan praline glaze, bakes to perfection in the oven.
Key Ingredients for This Stunning Glazed Ham
This section provides detailed notes on each ingredient, along with helpful substitution options to ensure your ham turns out perfectly every time. For exact measurements, the complete ingredient list, and step-by-step instructions, please refer to the printable recipe card located at the end of this post.
- Spiral Sliced Ham: For the best results, I highly recommend a 9-12 pound fully cooked, spiral bone-in ham. The spiral cut allows the glaze to seep into every crevice, ensuring maximum flavor, while the bone adds depth to the ham’s taste and helps keep it moist. Always confirm your ham is fully cooked before starting.
- Butter: You’ll need to divide the butter for use at two different stages of the recipe. I suggest using unsalted butter to give you full control over the sodium content, allowing you to add salt as needed later in the cooking process.
- Maple Syrup: This forms the foundational sweetness of your glaze, offering a natural, rich sweetness that perfectly complements the savory ham. Opt for pure maple syrup for the best flavor, as imitation syrups won’t deliver the same depth or quality.
- Brown Sugar: Enhances the sweetness of the glaze and creates that classic caramelized crust that pairs so wonderfully with ham. We used light brown sugar for a milder molasses flavor, but dark brown sugar is a fantastic alternative if you desire a deeper color and a more pronounced, robust molasses taste.
- Crushed Pecans: The star of our pecan topping! You can save time by purchasing pre-chopped pecans, or for fresher flavor, buy whole pecans and chop them yourself using a food processor or a sharp knife. Toasting them lightly before use can also intensify their nutty aroma.
Essential Supplies for Glazed Ham Success
Having the right tools on hand makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the supplies you’ll need to create this magnificent pecan glazed ham:
- Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient portions.
- Large baking dish or roasting pan: Choose one large enough to comfortably hold your ham with some space around it, especially if you plan to add vegetables. A sturdy pan ensures even cooking.
- Small saucepan: For preparing the final, luscious glaze on the stovetop.
- Microwave-safe bowl: Ideal for quickly melting butter and mixing the initial glaze.
- Whisk: Essential for smoothly combining the glaze ingredients.
- Meat thermometer: Crucial for ensuring your ham reaches the correct internal temperature for food safety and optimal juiciness, preventing overcooking.
- Basting brush: For evenly coating the ham with the glorious maple glaze.
- Sharp knife: A good carving knife is indispensable for slicing and serving your beautifully cooked ham.
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Pecan Glazed Ham
Follow these detailed, step-by-step instructions with accompanying photos to create a perfectly glazed ham. For the full printable recipe, including precise measurements, please see the comprehensive recipe card below.
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan. Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). To ensure even heat distribution and allow space for the ham to cook without burning, position the oven rack in the bottom third of the oven. For incredibly easy clean-up later, consider lining a large baking dish or a shallow roasting pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil. This simple step will save you time and effort.
Step 2: Ready the Ham. Carefully remove your spiral ham from its packaging, making sure to discard any liquid that may have accumulated. Place the ham, cut-side down, into your prepared baking pan or roasting pan. Placing it cut-side down helps to keep the ham moist during the initial baking phase. This is also the perfect time to surround the ham with chopped sweet potatoes or other root vegetables, if you desire, allowing them to soak up the delicious drippings and glaze.
Step 3: Create the Initial Glaze. In a small, microwave-safe bowl, melt 4 tablespoons of butter until fully liquid. To this melted butter, whisk in ½ cup of maple syrup until both ingredients are thoroughly combined and smooth. This creates the first layer of sweet, rich glaze that will permeate the ham.
Step 4: Glaze the Ham. Using a basting brush, generously coat your ham with the prepared maple-butter glaze mixture. Ensure you cover not only the top of the ham but also work the glaze into the spiral-cut sides. This thorough application is key to infusing every part of the ham with flavor and creating a beautiful, caramelized exterior.
Step 5: Initial Baking. Place the glazed ham into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 to 1 ½ hours. The exact baking time will depend on the size of your ham; a good rule of thumb is about 10-12 minutes per pound for a fully cooked ham. The ham is safely heated through and perfectly done when its internal temperature, measured in the thickest part (away from the bone), reaches 140°F (60°C) on a reliable oven thermometer. Avoid overbaking, as this can dry out the ham.
Step 6: Prepare the Pecan Topping. While your ham is in the oven, take a small bowl and combine the ½ cup of brown sugar with the ½ cup of crushed pecans. Stir them together until well mixed. This sweet and nutty mixture will form the irresistible crust later on.
Step 7: Apply Topping and Finish Baking. Once the ham has completed its initial bake (around 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes), carefully remove it from the oven. Now, generously cover the entire surface of the ham with the brown sugar and pecan mixture, gently pressing it onto the ham to help it adhere. Return the ham to the oven for an additional 30 minutes. This final baking phase allows the brown sugar to caramelize and the pecans to toast, creating a beautiful, crunchy, and intensely flavorful crust.
Step 8: Make the Final Drizzle Glaze. While the ham is completing its second bake, prepare the final drizzle glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter and the remaining ½ cup of maple syrup. Place the saucepan over medium heat. While continuously whisking, bring this mixture to a slight bubble and continue to cook for 2-3 minutes. This simmering process allows the glaze to thicken slightly and become even more syrupy and flavorful. Remove the saucepan from the heat and set it aside.
Step 9: Final Glaze Application. Once the ham is beautifully golden and the pecan topping has caramelized, remove it from the oven for the last time. Drizzle the freshly made, warm final glaze evenly over the entire ham. The warmth of the ham will help the glaze spread and seep into the delicious pecan crust.
Step 10: Rest, Slice, and Serve. The final, crucial step for a juicy ham is to let it rest! Allow the ham to sit undisturbed for 10-15 minutes before you begin slicing and serving. This resting period allows the juices within the ham to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is incredibly moist and tender. After resting, slice against the grain or along the spiral cuts, and serve warm.
Storing Leftover Glazed Ham (and Creative Uses!)
Proper storage ensures your delicious ham lasts longer and remains flavorful. Leftover glazed ham should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you find yourself with an abundance of leftovers, ham freezes beautifully! Once the maple pecan glazed ham has completely cooled to room temperature, transfer the leftovers to a freezer-safe container or tightly wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and then foil, and place them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Don’t let any of this amazing ham go to waste! Leftover ham is incredibly versatile and can be transformed into a variety of delicious meals. Some fantastic ideas include a hearty ham and pea salad, savory breakfast casseroles, comforting crockpot scalloped potatoes, fluffy omelets, flavorful soups, and classic ham sandwiches. You can even chop it up and add it to mac and cheese or quiches.
Expert Tips for the Best Pecan Glazed Ham
Achieving a truly spectacular glazed ham involves a few simple tricks. Keep these expert tips in mind to ensure your ham is perfectly cooked, wonderfully flavorful, and a true crowd-pleaser:
- Perform a Pre-Bake Check: Before you even think about glazing and cooking, always inspect your ham. Occasionally, spiral-sliced hams will have a small plastic cap covering the bone on the cut side. Be sure to remove this before placing the ham in the oven to ensure even cooking and to prevent any plastic from melting.
- Elevate with Veggies: To infuse more flavor into your meal, I highly recommend adding vegetables around the ham. My go-to choice is sweet potatoes; they do an incredible job of soaking up the aromatic pecan praline glaze and the savory ham drippings, which truly takes this classic ham dinner up a notch. Simply use 2 large, peeled, and chopped sweet potatoes, arranged around the ham at the bottom of the pan before baking. Sometimes, I also toss in some carrots for added color and sweetness. Feel free to experiment with your favorite root vegetables!
- Maple Syrup Substitution: If you find yourself without pure maple syrup, don’t fret! In a pinch, you can certainly swap it out for a good quality pancake syrup. While the flavor profile will be slightly different (pure maple syrup offers a more complex, natural sweetness), pancake syrup will still provide the necessary sweetness and viscosity for the glaze.
- Boost the Flavor Profile: For an extra layer of warmth and complexity in your glaze, consider adding a dash of ground cinnamon or a teaspoon of vanilla extract when you’re combining the brown sugar and pecans. These subtle additions can significantly enhance the overall aroma and taste of your glazed ham, giving it a truly gourmet touch.
- Avoid Overcooking: This is perhaps the most crucial tip for a tender and juicy ham. Remember that most spiral-sliced hams are already fully cooked. Your goal is simply to heat it through to a safe serving temperature and caramelize the glaze. The internal temperature of a precooked ham needs to reach 140°F (60°C) when measured with a meat thermometer in the thickest part (away from the bone). Consistently monitor the temperature towards the end of the baking time, as overbaking will inevitably lead to a dry, less enjoyable ham.
Pecan Praline Ham: Your Questions Answered (FAQ)
The perfect cooking time for a spiral ham can vary based on its weight and your oven. A general guideline for a fully cooked ham is to bake it for 10-12 minutes per pound. Always refer to the directions on your ham’s packaging first, as they often provide the most accurate estimate for that specific product. The most reliable way to determine doneness is by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should register 140°F (60°C) in the thickest part (away from the bone). Adjust your baking time as necessary to reach this temperature.
Absolutely! Once your maple pecan glazed ham has completely cooled down to room temperature, you can easily freeze the leftovers. Transfer them to a freezer-safe container, heavy-duty freezer bags, or wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Properly stored, the ham will maintain its quality in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
In this specific recipe, I typically do not cover the ham during baking, as the goal is to develop a caramelized, slightly crispy glaze. However, many people prefer to cover their ham with foil for part of the baking time to prevent it from drying out, especially if their oven tends to run hot. You are welcome to loosely tent or wrap your ham with foil during the first hour of baking if you desire. If you do, I would highly recommend removing the foil for at least the last 30 minutes, particularly after adding the brown sugar and pecan topping, to allow that glorious crust to form and caramelize properly.
For this Pecan Glazed Ham, I highly recommend purchasing a fully cooked, spiral-sliced, bone-in ham. The spiral cuts are ideal for allowing the glaze to penetrate deep into the meat, ensuring maximum flavor in every bite. Bone-in hams also tend to be more flavorful and stay juicier than boneless versions. Ensure it’s labeled “fully cooked” to simplify the process, as you’re primarily reheating and glazing.
You can certainly do some prep work in advance! The brown sugar and pecan topping can be mixed together a day or two ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. The initial maple-butter glaze can also be prepared a day in advance, stored in the refrigerator, and then gently reheated in the microwave or a small saucepan until melted and whisked smooth again before coating the ham. The final drizzle glaze is best made fresh just before applying.
To reheat leftover glazed ham and keep it from drying out, preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Place the ham slices or chunks in a baking dish with a splash of chicken broth or water at the bottom to create some steam. Cover the dish tightly with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through to an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). You can also reheat smaller portions gently in the microwave or in a covered skillet on the stovetop over low heat.
Perfect Pairings: Best Side Dishes for Your Glazed Ham
A magnificent ham deserves equally delicious companions! Here are some of the best side dishes that perfectly complement the sweet and savory notes of this pecan glazed ham, making your meal a truly complete and satisfying feast:
- Creamed spinach: A rich and creamy green vegetable that adds a touch of elegance and balances the sweetness of the ham.
- Sweet potato casserole with pecan topping: This dish echoes the sweet and nutty themes of the ham, creating a harmonious and comforting side.
- Cheesy potatoes with corn flakes: A classic comfort food that’s creamy, cheesy, and offers a delightful textural contrast.
- Creamed corn: Sweet and creamy, it’s a simple yet satisfying addition that kids and adults alike adore.
- Fluffy potato rolls: Perfect for soaking up any leftover glaze or drippings, and wonderful for making mini ham sandwiches later.
- Roasted potatoes in the air fryer: Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, these are a quick and flavorful potato option.
- Macaroni and cheese: The ultimate crowd-pleaser, providing a creamy, cheesy contrast to the savory ham.
Pecan Glazed Ham
Author: Jaclyn
Ingredients
- 1 spiral sliced bone in ham 9-12 pounds
- 8 Tablespoons butter divided
- 1 cup maple syrup divided
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup crushed pecans
Instructions
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Position rack in the bottom third of oven and preheat to 325°F. Line a large baking dish or shallow roasting pan with aluminum foil for easy clean-up, if desired.
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Remove your ham from the packaging, discarding any liquid. Place the ham cut side down in a large baking dish or roasting pan.
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Melt 4 Tablespoons of butter in a small microwave-safe bowl. To the butter, whisk in ½ cup of maple syrup.
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Coat your ham with the glaze.
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Bake the ham for 1 to 1 ½ hours (depending on size or ham).
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While the ham is baking combine brown sugar and pecans in a small bowl.
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Remove the ham from the oven and cover it in the brown sugar and pecan mixture. Return the ham to the oven for 30 minutes.
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Meanwhile, make the final glaze. In a small saucepan over medium heat combine the remaining 4 Tablespoons of butter and ½ cup of maple syrup. While whisking, bring this mixture up to a slight bubble and cook for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
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Remove the ham from the oven and drizzle the glaze over the ham.
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Allow the ham to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- The larger the ham the longer it will take to cook. Aim for about 10-12 minutes per pound of ham total bake time. The ham is done with the thickest part registers 140 degrees F.
- I put sweet potatoes around the ham while baking to soak up all that pecan praline goodness but this is entirely optional. If using sweet potatoes simply add 2 peeled and chopped sweet potatoes around the ham before baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Nutrition information is estimated based on a 9 pound ham.
Nutrition
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