Why This Is the Best
This recipe recreates the hallmark features of a world-class honey baked ham:
-
Ultra-moist, slow-warmed interior
-
Thin, glassy honey-sugar crust (not sticky or heavy)
-
Balanced sweetness with gentle spice
-
Caramelized finish that cracks when sliced
Ingredients
Ham
-
1 fully cooked, bone-in spiral ham (8–10 lbs)
-
½ cup water or apple juice (for the pan)
Signature Honey Sugar Coating
-
1 cup granulated sugar
-
½ cup honey
-
½ cup light brown sugar
-
1 tablespoon paprika
-
1 teaspoon garlic powder
-
½ teaspoon onion powder
-
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
-
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
-
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (very mild heat; optional but recommended)
Instructions
1. Warm the Ham (Moisture Is Key)
-
Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
-
Place ham cut-side down in a foil-lined roasting pan.
-
Add water or apple juice to the pan.
-
Wrap ham tightly in foil.
-
Heat for 10 minutes per pound, until internal temperature reaches 120–125°F (49–52°C).
🔥 Low and slow prevents drying and prepares the surface for the crust.
2. Prepare the Honey Sugar Coating
-
In a bowl, mix granulated sugar, brown sugar, spices, and cayenne.
-
Warm honey just until pourable (do not boil).
3. Apply the Signature Crust
-
Remove ham from oven and increase oven temperature to 425°F (220°C).
-
Brush the ham lightly with warm honey.
-
Press a thin layer of sugar mixture evenly over the surface.
4. Caramelize to Perfection
-
Return ham to oven uncovered for 5–8 minutes, watching closely.
-
The coating should melt, bubble, and turn golden with a crackly finish.
-
Remove immediately once caramelized.
⚠️ Do not overbake—this crust sets fast.
5. Rest & Serve
-
Let ham rest 10–15 minutes.
-
Slice gently to preserve the crisp sugar shell.
Chef Secrets for Honey Baked Ham Excellence
-
Spiral ham is essential for even warming and glaze penetration.
-
Granulated sugar creates the signature crackle—do not substitute entirely with brown sugar.
-
High heat only at the end prevents moisture loss.
-
For authentic finish, some chefs caramelize with a kitchen torch instead of the oven.
Serving Pairings
Storage & Reheating
-
Refrigerate leftovers up to 5 days
-
Reheat gently at 275°F, covered, to preserve moisture
-
Excellent for sandwiches, breakfast dishes, and soups
Final Result
A show-stopping honey baked ham with:
✔ Juicy interior
✔ Crisp, glossy crust
✔ Perfect sweet-savory balance
- 1 (7 lb.) med. smoked pork picnic shoulder (bone in or out)
- 2 c. sugar
- 1 c. honey or brown sugar, packed
- 1 (6 oz.) can frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed
- 1 tsp. whole cloves






