Making the best Easter ham is all about choosing the right ham, adding a flavorful glaze, and baking it to perfection. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making a delicious Easter ham:

1. Choose the Right Ham:

• Bone-In vs. Boneless: A bone-in ham tends to have more flavor and moisture. However, a boneless ham is easier to carve.

• Pre-Cooked vs. Fresh Ham: Most hams you'll find are pre-cooked and just need to be heated through. Fresh ham (raw) requires more cooking time.

• Size: A 6-8 lb ham is a good size for a family dinner, but adjust based on how many people you're serving.

2. Ingredients for the Glaze:

• Brown Sugar: For sweetness and a nice caramelization.

• Honey or Maple Syrup: Adds sweetness and depth.

• Mustard: Dijon or yellow mustard balances out the sweetness with tanginess.

• Cloves: Optional but adds a warm, aromatic flavor.

• Orange Juice or Pineapple Juice: A bit of citrusy freshness.

• Apple Cider Vinegar or Balsamic Vinegar: A touch of acidity to cut through the sweetness.

• Garlic: For extra savory flavor.

• Spices: Cinnamon, allspice, and black pepper are nice additions to the glaze.

3. Preparing the Ham:

• Score the Ham: Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a crisscross pattern. This helps the glaze penetrate the meat and also creates a beautiful presentation.

• Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C).

4. Making the Glaze:

• Combine ingredients: In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of honey (or maple syrup), 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 1/2 cup of orange juice (or pineapple juice), and 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar.

• Simmer: Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens (about 10-15 minutes).

• Optional add-ins: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon, cloves, and a crushed garlic clove for more complexity in the flavor.

5. Baking the Ham:

• Place the Ham on a Rack: Put the ham on a rack in a roasting pan. This allows air to circulate around it for even cooking.

• Bake the Ham: Bake the ham for about 15-18 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). While it bakes, baste the ham every 20-30 minutes with the glaze.

• Add More Glaze: After about 1-1.5 hours, you can brush on additional glaze for a thicker coating.

6. Finishing Touch:

• Broil for Caramelization (optional): If you like a crispy, caramelized outer layer, you can broil the ham for 3-5 minutes at the end, but be careful not to burn it.

• Rest: Let the ham rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

• Slice and serve the ham with your favorite sides—think mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Bonus Tips:

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the glaze ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week.

• Leftovers: Ham leftovers make amazing sandwiches, soups, or even ham salad.

This method will give you a juicy, flavorful ham with a beautifully glazed crust—perfect for Easter! What kind of sides do you like to serve with your ham?