The holidays are a time for togetherness, laughter, and of course, delicious food! This year, let's elevate your holiday table with a recipe inspired by the warmth and charm of the Magnolia Journal – a cranberry-orange glazed ham that's sure to become a family favorite. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes and quick dinner ideas without sacrificing flavor or elegance. It's a beautiful balance of sweet and tart, making it the perfect centerpiece for your holiday feast. Get ready to impress your guests with this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- One 8-10 pound fully cooked bone-in ham
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry preferred)
- 1/2 cup orange marmalade
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Remove the ham from its packaging and place it in a roasting pan. Score the ham's fat layer in a diamond pattern, about 1/2 inch deep – this helps the glaze penetrate and creates a beautiful presentation.
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Whisk the Glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cranberry sauce, orange marmalade, orange juice, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, cloves, cinnamon, and allspice until smooth.
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Glaze & Bake: Pour half of the glaze over the ham, ensuring it gets into the scored areas. Bake for 1-1.5 hours, basting with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes. The internal temperature of the ham should reach 140°F (60°C).
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Rest & Serve: Once cooked, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham. Serve with your favorite holiday sides and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Cranberry-Orange Glazed Ham:
- Choosing your Ham: Opt for a fully cooked ham to save time. However, you can also use a raw ham, but adjust the baking time accordingly and ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature.
- Glaze Variations: Feel free to experiment with different glazes! Add a pinch of ginger or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor. You could also incorporate a touch of bourbon or maple syrup for extra depth.
- Make Ahead: The glaze can be prepared a day in advance, allowing you to focus on other holiday preparations.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-400 (depending on ham size and serving size)
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Moderate
This delicious cranberry-orange glazed ham offers a delightful blend of sweet and tart flavors, making it a perfect addition to your healthy meals this holiday season. It's easy enough for beginner cooks and impressive enough for experienced chefs. This recipe perfectly embodies the spirit of homemade cooking, creating a memorable holiday dish for your loved ones. Enjoy this simple yet elegant recipe and create lasting memories around your festive table!