Sweet & Savory Ham Glaze
This delightful Sweet & Savory Ham Glaze is the ultimate solution for those days when you're pressed for time but still want to impress your family and friends! Combining the classic flavors of Karo syrup and honey with a touch of butter and cornstarch for thickness, this glaze offers a rich, sticky coating that's perfect for enhancing a beautifully baked ham. The simplicity of this recipe means you can whip it up in no time, yet it brings a mouth-watering flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Ideal for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or any special occasion, this glaze is sure to become a favorite!
10
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Karo syrup
1 1/2 cups (none)
Honey
3/4 cup (none)
Cornstarch
3 tablespoons (none)
Butter
2 tablespoons (melted)
Spiral Cut Ham
10 lbs (fully cooked)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven according to the ham's cooking instructions.
2
Cook the ham as directed on the package, then carefully remove it from the oven and drain any excess juices from the pan.
3
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the Karo syrup and honey. Microwave on high for 1 minute to warm it up.
4
Add the melted butter and cornstarch to the syrup mixture, then whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
5
Generously coat the entire ham with the glaze, ensuring every inch is covered.
6
Leave the ham uncovered and return it to the oven to bake. For the next 10-15 minutes, baste the ham every 5 minutes with the glaze from the bottom of the pan, allowing it to caramelize and thicken.
7
Once the glaze is gooey and the ham is beautifully glazed, remove it from the oven.
8
Let it sit for a few minutes, then slice and serve. Enjoy every savory, sweet bite!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sweet & Savory Ham Glaze?
It is a rich, sticky coating made from Karo syrup, honey, and butter, designed to enhance the flavor of a baked ham.
What are the main ingredients in this glaze?
The main ingredients are Karo syrup, honey, cornstarch, butter, and a spiral cut ham.
How long does it take to prepare the glaze?
The preparation takes only a few minutes, with a final 10-15 minutes of baking and basting to finish.
Can I use a different type of ham for this recipe?
Yes, while a 10 lb spiral cut ham is recommended, you can use this glaze on other fully cooked hams.
How do I thicken the ham glaze?
Cornstarch is included in the recipe to act as a thickening agent for a gooey consistency.
What is the purpose of the Karo syrup?
Karo syrup provides a classic sweetness and helps create the sticky, glossy texture characteristic of a great glaze.
Is this recipe suitable for holiday dinners?
Yes, its impressive flavor and appearance make it ideal for holidays, family gatherings, and special occasions.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to serve approximately 10 people.
Do I need to microwave the ingredients?
Yes, you should microwave the Karo syrup and honey for 1 minute to warm them up before mixing.
Should I cook the ham before applying the glaze?
Yes, cook the ham as directed on its package and drain excess juices before applying the glaze.
How often should I baste the ham?
You should baste the ham every 5 minutes during the final 10-15 minutes of baking.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven according to the specific cooking instructions provided on your ham's packaging.
Why do I need to drain the ham juices?
Draining the juices prevents the glaze from becoming too thin and ensures it adheres well to the meat.
Can I use salted butter for the glaze?
Yes, melted butter is used to add richness, and salted or unsalted versions are both acceptable.
What should I do if the glaze is too thin?
The basting process and the cornstarch should thicken it, but you can whisk in a tiny bit more cornstarch if needed.
Is the ham covered or uncovered while glazing?
The ham should be left uncovered during the glazing and basting process to allow caramelization.
Can I substitute honey with something else?
Maple syrup can be a substitute, though it will slightly alter the flavor profile of the glaze.
How do I ensure the glaze is smooth?
Whisk the mixture thoroughly after adding the melted butter and cornstarch to remove any lumps.
Is this ham glaze high in protein?
The overall dish is categorized as high protein due to the ham serving.
Can I make this glaze in advance?
Yes, you can mix the ingredients ahead of time, but you may need to re-warm it to make it spreadable.
What does the glaze taste like?
It has a mouth-watering balance of intense sweetness from honey and syrup with a savory, buttery finish.
How do I know when the ham is done?
The ham is done when the glaze is gooey and beautifully caramelized on the surface.
What size ham works best for this glaze amount?
A 10 lb spiral cut ham is the specified size for these ingredient proportions.
Should I let the ham rest after baking?
Yes, let the ham sit for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to settle.
Is this a quick recipe?
The glazing part is very quick, making it a great solution for when you are pressed for time.
Does the glaze contain any common allergens?
This recipe contains butter (dairy). Always check individual ingredient labels for other potential allergens.
What makes the glaze savory?
The addition of butter and the natural saltiness of the ham provide the savory component.
Can I add spices like cloves or cinnamon?
Yes, feel free to add a pinch of warm spices to the syrup mixture if you prefer a spiced glaze.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover glazed ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can this glaze be used for other meats?
While designed for ham, this sweet and savory profile also works well on roasted pork loin.