Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham Centerpiece

Name: Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham Centerpiece
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 (8-10 lb) fully cooked bone-in ham; 2 cups cherry preserves; 1/2 cup bourbon; 1/4 cup Dijon mustard; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

Highlighted under: Seasonal Comfort Creations

This Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham Centerpiece is the perfect dish for your festive gatherings, bringing a sweet and savory flavor that will impress your guests.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-12T19:10:16.683Z

This Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham is not just a meal; it's a centerpiece of celebration. Each slice is infused with a mix of sweet cherry and rich bourbon flavors that delight the palate.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Sweet and tangy glaze that elevates the ham flavor
Juicy, tender meat that is easy to carve
Perfect for special occasions and family gatherings

      

The Perfect Festive Dish

The Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham Centerpiece is not just a meal; it's an experience that turns any gathering into a memorable feast. Imagine the tantalizing aroma that fills your kitchen as this succulent ham bakes, its sweet and savory glaze caramelizing to perfection. This dish is ideal for holiday celebrations, family reunions, or any special occasion where you want to impress your guests with a stunning centerpiece.

Not only does this ham shine in flavor, but its presentation is equally impressive. The glossy cherry bourbon glaze creates a beautiful contrast against the golden-brown surface of the ham, making it visually captivating. When served, it becomes the star of the table, inviting everyone to indulge in its deliciousness.

A Flavorful Glaze

The glaze for this ham is a harmonious blend of sweet cherry preserves and rich bourbon, enhanced with the warm spices of cinnamon and cloves. This combination not only elevates the flavor of the ham but also adds a layer of sophistication that is sure to delight the palate. It’s a unique twist on traditional ham glazes that will leave your guests raving about the flavors long after the meal is over.

Creating the glaze is simple yet rewarding. As you stir the ingredients together over medium heat, you’ll witness the transformation into a smooth, luscious mixture that coats the ham beautifully. This glaze not only adds flavor but also helps keep the meat juicy and tender throughout the cooking process.

Easy to Prepare

One of the best aspects of this Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham is its simplicity. With just a few steps, you can prepare an impressive dish that looks and tastes like it took hours of effort. The pre-cooked ham means you only need to focus on applying the glaze and baking it to perfection. This ease of preparation allows you to spend more time enjoying the company of your loved ones rather than stressing in the kitchen.

Whether you're an experienced cook or a novice, this recipe is approachable and forgiving. The clear instructions guide you through each step, ensuring a successful outcome. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) can be used in sandwiches, salads, or as a delicious addition to breakfast omelets.

Ingredients

For the Ham

1 (8-10 lb) fully cooked bone-in ham
2 cups cherry preserves
1/2 cup bourbon
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

Gather all ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

Prepare the Ham

Place the ham on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern.

Make the Glaze

In a saucepan, combine cherry preserves, bourbon, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cloves. Stir over medium heat until smooth.

Glaze the Ham

Brush half of the glaze over the scored ham. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 1 hour.

Finish Baking

Remove the foil and brush the remaining glaze over the ham. Bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes, basting every 10 minutes.

Serve

Once done, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham with sides of your choice!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving this Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham, the options are endless. Pair it with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh spring salad to create a well-rounded meal. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside a fruit compote or a tangy cranberry sauce to complement the sweet glaze of the ham.

Don’t forget about the beverages! A bold red wine or a refreshing iced tea can enhance the dining experience. For a fun twist, consider a bourbon cocktail that echoes the flavors in the dish, delighting your guests with a cohesive flavor profile.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftover ham, storing it properly is key to maintaining its delicious flavor and juicy texture. Wrap the sliced ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or store it in an airtight container. When refrigerated, it can last for up to a week, making it a convenient option for quick meals throughout the week.

Reheating the ham is easy; simply place the slices in the oven at a low temperature, about 325°F (165°C), for 10-15 minutes. To keep it moist, cover it with foil or add a splash of broth. This will ensure every bite is as succulent as when it was first served.

Recipe Variations

While the Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham is delicious as is, feel free to experiment with the recipe to suit your taste. Try adding different fruits to the glaze, such as apricot preserves or pineapple juice, for a unique flavor twist. You can also adjust the spice levels by adding a hint of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.

For a more smoky flavor, consider using a smoked ham instead of the traditional bone-in ham. This variation will add depth to the dish, making it even more enticing. Don't hesitate to make this recipe your own by incorporating your favorite ingredients!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute the ham with a bone-in turkey or a beef roast, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

→ Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to use.

→ What sides go well with this dish?

Classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad pair perfectly with glazed ham.