Bourbon Glazed Ham is a tender, slow-roasted ham coated in a sweet and rich maple bourbon glaze that makes any holiday table feel extra special. It's an easy centerpiece that fills the kitchen with that cozy home cooked aroma I love.
This recipe reminds me of the family dinners I've made for years, especially during colder months when warm, comforting bring everyone together. If you enjoy the maple bourbon sweetness here, you may also like my Bacon Wrapped Scallops with Bourbon Maple Glaze.
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Why You'll Love this Bourbon Glazed Ham
Rich flavor: the maple bourbon glaze brings a deep, warm sweetness that caramelizes beautifully.
Simple prep: most of the cooking time happens in the oven, so you can relax or prep sides.
Holiday favorite: it fits naturally into gatherings and makes great leftovers.
Key Ingredients for Maple Bourbon Ham
See the recipe card below for a complete list of ingredients and instructions.
- Bone-in ham: roasts up juicy and tender while holding onto the glaze.
- Apple cider: adds fruity depth and keeps the ham moist during baking.
- Maple syrup: brings natural sweetness that pairs well with bourbon.
- Dijon mustard: adds a mild tang that balances the glaze.
- Garlic: gives a subtle savory note in the sauce.
- Bourbon: adds warmth and complexity to the glaze as it reduces.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Orange juice instead of apple cider for a brighter flavor.
- Honey instead of maple syrup if you prefer a lighter sweetness.
- Apple juice instead of bourbon for an alcohol free glaze.
Variations on Bourbon Glazed Ham
- Add chipotle for a smoky heat.
- Use brown sugar in the glaze for a deeper caramel note.
- Glaze with pineapple juice and bourbon for a tropical twist.
Tips for the Best Maple Bourbon Glaze
- Reduce fully: let the glaze thicken so it sticks well to the ham.
- Baste often: this builds layers of caramelization and flavor.
- Rest before slicing: this keeps the ham juicy and easier to carve.
How to Store and Reheat
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat slices in a covered dish at 300°F, adding a splash of cider to keep everything moist.
Serving Suggestions for Holiday Ham
Pair this Bourbon Glazed Ham with Garlic Chive Mashed Potatoes, Quick Dinner Rolls, and Easy Broccoli Rice and Cheese Casserole.
More Holiday Recipes You'll Love
If you like this ham, you may also enjoy my Prime Rib Roast with Brussels Sprouts, Pan Roasted Turkey, and Holiday Prime Rib Roast with Pan Gravy.
When you make this recipe, please comment below and let me know what you think. I'd love it if you tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch or #grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your photos!
If you love this recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating
📖 Recipe
Bourbon Glazed Ham
Equipment
- Roasting pan
- Heavy bottom saucepan
- Basting brush
- Sharp carving knife
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Ingredients
- 5 pound bone in ham
- 2 cups apple cider divided
- ⅓ cup maple syrup
- ⅓ cup dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic finely minced
- 1 cup bourbon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Line your roasting pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place the ham in the roasting pan, cut side down. Pour 1 cup of the apple cider over the ham and place in the oven.
- Let the ham roast in the oven for 45 minutes while you prepare the glaze.
- On a stove, in a heavy bottomed saucepan, add the remaining cider, maple syrup, mustard, garlic and stir to combine. Let it come to a boil and then turn off the heat. Add the bourbon. Return to the heat.
- Bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer until it is reduced by half. When it is reduced, set aside a small amount for serving.
- After 45 minutes, remove the ham from the oven and flip the ham so it is resting on its side. Glaze the ham and return to the oven, continuing to baste about every 15 - 20 minutes until the ham is fully heated through and the glaze has formed a nice coating.
- Remove from the oven, let rest for 10 minutes and carve.
teaandscones says
Only THREE!!! Been married 40 years and cooked a ham just about once each of them. That being said I have never glazed a ham and it mite be time to start. Sounds really good.
Elizabeth@ Food Ramblings says
yum- what a great glaze...delish!
Camilla Mann says
Love it! I've been married to my Love for almost 13 years also and, well, I've never made a ham at all! So, you've got three on me. But I am tempted by your recipe! Great pick.
honeyb says
I love your little off-topic geography lesson. 😉
My husband is a little picky about his ham and only wants Honeybaked. Whatevs--makes less work for me at Easter and Christmas. 😉
teresa says
i love all the flavors going on in this ham, delicious!
Lisa~~ says
The flavor of the cider with the ham sounds wonderful, a delicious and easy meal.
If you haven't already, I'd love for you to check out my SRC entry Lemon Almond Biscotti.
Lisa~~
Noelle says
Seems pretty easy! YUM!
Jess says
What a great pick! I absolutely love the flavor of cider, and this looks fantastic.
Aly ~ Cooking In Stilettos says
You did a stellar job with that ham, Shelby 🙂 I had no idea there was a Philly, NY - learn something new every day!
Pola M says
By the way that cooked ham looks delicious!
Pola M says
So where do you buy ham? I have a couple of recipes I would like to try using ham, but can't seem to find it at the supermarket...
Trisha says
Hi Shelby, I had your blog this month and I just wanted to stop by and say Hi!!! I had a lovely time going through your blog. And btw, that ham looks perfect. Left overs'd be great for sandwiches too!