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Apple Cider Glazed Ham is more than just a dish; it’s a centerpiece that embodies warmth and comfort during holiday gatherings and special occasions. The sweet and tangy notes of apple cider, combined with a medley of spices, create an inviting aroma that fills your home, making it a favorite for family dinners and festive celebrations alike. This recipe showcases how simple ingredients can transform a humble ham into a sumptuous feast, perfect for impressing guests or treating your loved ones.

Apple Cider Glazed Ham

Transform your holiday gatherings with this delicious Apple Cider Glazed Ham recipe! A perfect centerpiece for special occasions, this dish combines the sweetness of apple cider with spices and a luscious glaze for a beautifully caramelized finish. It's easy to prepare, making it ideal for both seasoned cooks and beginners. Gather your loved ones, savor each bite, and create unforgettable memories around the table with this comforting, flavorful feast.
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Ingredients
  

1 whole bone-in ham (8-10 pounds)

2 cups apple cider

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

1/4 cup honey

1/4 cup Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon soy sauce

Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the ham.

    Prepare the Ham: Carefully place the ham on a roasting rack set inside a large roasting pan, ensuring the cut side is facing down. Use a sharp knife to score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, making shallow cuts about 1 inch apart. This will help the glaze penetrate the meat and enhance the flavor.

      Make the Glaze: In a medium saucepan set over medium heat, combine the apple cider, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, apple cider vinegar, and soy sauce. Stir the mixture continuously until the sugar has completely dissolved and the mixture begins to simmer. Allow it to simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.

        Glaze the Ham: Using a basting brush, generously brush the prepared glaze over the surface of the ham. Be sure to reserve a portion of the glaze for basting during the roasting process.

          Roasting Time: Loosely cover the ham with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 15 minutes per pound, which will take between 2 to 2.5 hours in total. Every 30 minutes, baste the ham with the reserved glaze, ensuring it stays moist and flavorful.

            Remove the Foil: In the final 30 minutes of cooking, remove the foil cover to allow the ham to brown and caramelize. Continue to baste every 15 minutes for an even more delectable glaze.

              Check Temperature: To ensure the ham is fully cooked, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the ham; it should read an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) when done.

                Rest and Serve: After removing the ham from the oven, let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. If desired, garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for an aromatic touch, and then slice and serve warm.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 2.5-3 hours | 12-14 servings

                    - Presentation Tips: For an elegant serving, arrange the sliced ham on a large platter with sprigs of rosemary or thyme for garnish, and consider serving with seasonal roasted vegetables or your favorite side dishes to complete the meal.