Irresistible Apple Cider Glazed Ham Recipe That Will Wow Your Guests

There’s something truly comforting about the aroma of a slow-roasted ham, especially when it’s finished with a glossy, tangy apple cider glaze that fills the kitchen with warmth. Growing up in Monterey, I remember those lively family dinners where my Nonna Rosa’s recipes took center stage, and the sweet-spiced scent of a glazed ham would always promise a special celebration. This Apple Cider Glazed Ham recipe feels like a loving nod to those moments—simple, heartfelt, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or just craving a dish that feels like home, this recipe brings that same sense of joy and togetherness to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Glazed Ham

What makes this Apple Cider Glazed Ham stand out isn’t just the tender, juicy meat—it’s the beautiful balance of sweet and tangy flavors in the glaze that transforms an ordinary ham into something memorable. My mother, Elena, always said that the best dishes are the ones that invite you to gather ’round the table and savor every bite slowly. This glaze, with its hints of apple cider, brown sugar, and a touch of mustard, creates a shiny caramelized crust that’s irresistible.

Every time I make this ham, I’m reminded of those bustling kitchens back home, where the air was thick with laughter, garlic, and the scent of fresh herbs from Nonna Rosa’s garden. This recipe isn’t just about cooking—it’s about carrying forward family traditions and sharing love through food. And trust me, your house will smell just like mine did on those special Sundays when Olivia and Isabella were little, and we gathered for a meal that felt like a warm embrace.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Apple Cider Glazed Ham

• 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 7–8 pounds)
• 1 1/2 cups apple cider (preferably fresh or unsweetened)
• 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard (for a bit of tang)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Whole cloves, for studding the ham (optional but traditional)
• Fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish (optional)

Substitution tips: If you don’t have apple cider, a mix of apple juice and a splash of lemon juice works well. For a milder mustard flavor, you can swap Dijon for whole grain mustard or even yellow mustard.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: Approximately 350 per 6-ounce serving
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 900mg

Keep in mind these numbers can vary based on the ham brand and exact glaze quantities. Growing up, Nonna Rosa taught me that while nutrition matters, balance is key—enjoying dishes like this with family is part of a joyful life.

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Steps to Create Your Apple Cider Glazed Ham

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Place a rack inside a large roasting pan to elevate the ham and allow even cooking.
2. If your ham isn’t pre-scored, use a sharp knife to score the surface in a diamond pattern, about 1/8 inch deep. This helps the glaze soak in and creates that beautiful crust. If you like, stud the ham with whole cloves at the diamond intersections for a classic touch.
3. Place the ham on the rack, fat side up. Tent it loosely with foil to keep it moist during the initial cooking phase.
4. Bake the ham for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C). This step gently warms the ham without drying it out—something my mother always emphasized when preparing meats for family dinners.
5. While the ham bakes, prepare the glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine apple cider, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Stir occasionally and let it simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes, until it thickens slightly and becomes syrupy.
6. Remove the foil from the ham and brush a generous layer of the apple cider glaze all over its surface. Return the ham to the oven, uncovered, for another 20-30 minutes, basting every 10 minutes with more glaze. This creates the signature shiny, caramelized coating.
7. Once the glaze is sticky and golden, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping every slice tender—something I learned watching my Nonna Rosa handle meats with such care.

Pro tip: Use a sharp carving knife to slice the ham thinly, and don’t rush this step. I often find that Olivia and Isabella love to help here, carefully arranging the slices on a platter, which turns the final preparation into a shared family moment. Learn more: Irresistible Sweet Potato Marshmallow Casserole Recipe for Every Occasion

Tips for Making the Best Apple Cider Glazed Ham

Every cook has their secret tricks, and I’m no exception. Here are some tips I’ve gathered from years of family dinners and culinary adventures across Italy and Spain:

• Choose the right ham: A bone-in, fully cooked ham offers the best flavor and texture. It’s also easier to slice and serve.
• Score the surface: This is key for flavor penetration and a beautiful presentation. Don’t be afraid to make deep, neat cuts.
• Simmer your glaze: Allowing the glaze to reduce thickens it so it clings beautifully to the ham, creating that perfect sticky coat.
• Don’t skip the resting: I can’t stress this enough. Resting your ham after baking locks in all that moisture and flavor.
• Make it ahead: This ham tastes even better the next day. I often prepare it a day in advance during holidays, then gently reheat it before serving.
• Use fresh apple cider: If you can find fresh or locally pressed apple cider, it makes a world of difference. It adds an authentic sweetness and depth that bottled juices can’t match.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Apple Cider Glazed Ham pairs beautifully with side dishes that balance its sweet and savory notes. I fondly recall my Nonna Rosa’s tables adorned with fragrant rosemary roasted potatoes, garlicky sautéed greens, and a crisp apple and fennel salad that cut through the richness perfectly.

• Garlic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta
• Roasted root vegetables tossed with fresh thyme
• Green beans almondine or sautéed spinach with garlic
• A crisp apple and arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette
• Warm crusty bread to soak up the glaze
• For drinks, a dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light sparkling cider complements the flavors wonderfully

Serving this ham with family always feels like a celebration of heritage and togetherness—something I hope you experience every time you gather for a meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

One of the joys of this Apple Cider Glazed Ham is how well it keeps, making it perfect for busy households or leftovers. Here’s how I preserve all that flavor and tenderness:

• Wrap leftover ham tightly in foil or place in an airtight container to prevent drying out.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• To reheat, gently warm ham slices in a low oven (about 275°F) covered with foil to keep moisture, or use a skillet over low heat with a splash of apple cider to refresh the glaze.
• Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the meat.
• For longer storage, ham can be frozen for up to 3 months. Freeze slices flat in freezer bags with glaze brushed on to lock in flavor.

I often reheat this ham for quick weeknight dinners, pairing it with simple sides. Olivia and Isabella love when I turn leftovers into hearty sandwiches with a smear of mustard and some crisp lettuce—comfort food that’s as nostalgic as it is delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main ingredients for Apple Cider Glazed Ham?

The main ingredients for Apple Cider Glazed Ham include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

How long does it take to make Apple Cider Glazed Ham?

The total time to make Apple Cider Glazed Ham includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.

Can I make Apple Cider Glazed Ham ahead of time?

Yes, Apple Cider Glazed Ham can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.

What can I serve with Apple Cider Glazed Ham?

Apple Cider Glazed Ham pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.

Is Apple Cider Glazed Ham suitable for special diets?

Depending on the ingredients used, Apple Cider Glazed Ham may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.

Final Thoughts

Making this Apple Cider Glazed Ham feels like weaving together the threads of my culinary heritage—each ingredient telling a story, every step echoing family lessons passed down from my mother and Nonna Rosa. It’s a recipe that invites you to slow down, savor the process, and share a meal that’s more than food—it’s a memory in the making.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a dish that feels like a warm hug, this ham delivers on all fronts. The sweet tang of apple cider, the cozy spices, and the tender meat come together in a way that’s both elegant and approachable—perfect for home cooks who want to bring a little bit of Monterey and my family’s kitchen into their own home.