Cinnamon Honey Glazed Baked Picnic Ham recipe

The first time I made this Cinnamon Honey Glazed Baked Picnic Ham, it was for a casual Easter brunch. I wanted something impressive but not overly fussy, and definitely bursting with flavor. Picnic ham, often overlooked compared to its more glamorous cousin, the spiral-cut ham, seemed like a budget-friendly and flavorful option. And boy, was I right! The aroma that filled my kitchen as it baked was simply divine – a warm, inviting blend of cinnamon, honey, and savory ham. When it emerged from the oven, glistening with that beautiful, caramelized glaze, it was truly a sight to behold. The taste? Even better than I imagined. The ham was incredibly moist and tender, infused with the sweet and spicy glaze that created a perfect balance of flavors. My family devoured it, declaring it the “best ham ever!” It was a resounding success, and this Cinnamon Honey Glazed Baked Picnic Ham has become a beloved staple for holidays, gatherings, and even just special Sunday dinners. If you’re looking for a delicious, crowd-pleasing centerpiece that’s easier and more affordable than you might think, then prepare to be amazed. This recipe transforms a humble picnic ham into a show-stopping dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds – and begging for your secret recipe.

Ingredients: The Symphony of Flavors in Cinnamon Honey Glazed Baked Picnic Ham

Crafting the perfect Cinnamon Honey Glazed Baked Picnic Ham is all about selecting the right ingredients that work in harmony to create a symphony of sweet, savory, and spiced flavors. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that moist, tender ham with a glistening, flavorful glaze. Let’s break down the essential ingredients you’ll need:

• Picnic Ham (Shoulder Ham): The star of our show, picnic ham, also known as pork shoulder ham, is a cut from the lower shoulder of the pig. It’s often more affordable than other types of ham and boasts a rich, porky flavor that stands up beautifully to bold glazes. You’ll need one 5-7 pound bone-in picnic ham. Bone-in hams tend to be more flavorful and moist. Look for a picnic ham that is fully cooked or cooked-smoked, as these are ready to eat and just need to be heated through and glazed. Avoid “fresh” picnic hams unless you are prepared for a much longer cooking process to ensure it’s fully cooked. Check the label to confirm it is fully cooked or cooked-smoked.
• Honey: Honey is the cornerstone of our glaze, providing natural sweetness and a beautiful golden caramelization as it bakes. You’ll need ½ cup of honey. Choose a good quality honey that you enjoy the flavor of. Different types of honey, such as clover, wildflower, or buckwheat, will impart slightly different flavor nuances to the glaze. For a richer flavor, consider using a darker honey like buckwheat or chestnut.
• Cinnamon: Cinnamon is the signature spice that elevates this ham glaze, adding warmth, depth, and a delightful aroma. You’ll need 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Use fresh, high-quality ground cinnamon for the best flavor. For a more intense cinnamon flavor, you can use freshly grated cinnamon from cinnamon sticks, but ground cinnamon is convenient and readily available.
• Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard adds a tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the honey and warmth of the cinnamon, creating a balanced and complex glaze. You’ll need 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard. Dijon mustard’s sharp, pungent flavor is key to cutting through the richness of the ham and honey. You can experiment with different types of Dijon mustard for varying levels of heat and flavor complexity.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar adds a touch of acidity that balances the sweetness and richness, and also helps to tenderize the ham slightly. You’ll need 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar’s mild, fruity acidity is ideal for this glaze. In a pinch, you can substitute with white wine vinegar or even lemon juice, but apple cider vinegar is preferred for its flavor profile.
• Butter: Butter adds richness, shine, and helps to emulsify the glaze, creating a smooth and luscious texture. You’ll need 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the glaze. If using salted butter, you may want to reduce or omit any additional salt in the glaze (though this recipe doesn’t call for extra salt in the glaze itself).
• Ground Cloves (Optional but Recommended): Ground cloves add a warm, pungent, and slightly sweet spice note that complements cinnamon beautifully and enhances the overall glaze flavor. You’ll need ½ teaspoon of ground cloves (optional). Use ground cloves sparingly as their flavor is quite potent. If you don’t have ground cloves, you can omit them, but they do add a lovely depth to the glaze.
• Water or Apple Juice: A little liquid helps to thin the glaze slightly and ensures it coats the ham evenly. You’ll need ¼ cup of water or apple juice. Apple juice adds a subtle fruity sweetness that complements the other glaze ingredients. Water works just as well and allows the other flavors to shine through.
• Whole Cloves (for studding – Optional but Recommended for Presentation): Whole cloves are used to stud the ham, adding visual appeal and infusing the ham with subtle clove flavor as it bakes. You’ll need 10-15 whole cloves (optional). Studding with cloves is primarily for presentation and a hint of clove aroma. If you don’t have whole cloves or prefer not to use them, you can skip this step.

By carefully selecting these ingredients, you are building a flavor foundation for a Cinnamon Honey Glazed Baked Picnic Ham that is both deeply flavorful and visually stunning, a true centerpiece for any meal.

Instructions: Baking Your Way to a Perfect Cinnamon Honey Glazed Picnic Ham

Baking a Cinnamon Honey Glazed Picnic Ham is a relatively straightforward process, but following these step-by-step instructions will ensure your ham is cooked to perfection, beautifully glazed, and bursting with flavor.

Step 1: Prepare the Ham

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Score the Ham (Optional but Recommended): Use a sharp knife to score the fat cap of the picnic ham in a diamond pattern. Make shallow cuts about ¼ inch deep, being careful not to cut into the meat. Scoring helps the glaze penetrate the ham and also allows the fat to render out during baking.
3. Stud with Cloves (Optional): If using whole cloves, insert them into the points of the diamond pattern created by scoring, or randomly across the ham’s surface. This is primarily for visual appeal and adds a subtle clove aroma.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Honey Glaze

1. Combine Glaze Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the ½ cup of honey, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, and ½ teaspoon of ground cloves (if using).
2. Simmer Glaze: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally until the butter is melted and the glaze is smooth and combined.
3. Simmer and Thicken: Reduce the heat to low and simmer the glaze for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and becomes syrupy. Be careful not to let it boil rapidly, as it can become too thick or burn.
4. Remove from Heat: Remove the glaze from the heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Bake the Ham

1. Place Ham in Roasting Pan: Place the prepared picnic ham in a roasting pan. You can use a roasting rack if you have one, but it’s not essential. If using a rack, place it inside the roasting pan and then place the ham on the rack.
2. Add Water or Apple Juice to Pan (Optional): Pour ¼ cup of water or apple juice into the bottom of the roasting pan. This helps to create some steam and keeps the ham moist during baking, preventing it from drying out.
3. Brush Ham with Glaze (First Coat): Use a pastry brush to generously brush about half of the cinnamon honey glaze all over the picnic ham, ensuring it coats the top and sides. Reserve the remaining glaze for basting later.
4. Bake Ham: Place the roasting pan with the ham in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature of the ham reaches 140°F (60°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone. Since picnic hams are typically already cooked, you are primarily heating it through and allowing the glaze to caramelize.
5. Baste with Remaining Glaze: After 1 hour of baking, remove the ham from the oven and brush it with the remaining cinnamon honey glaze. Return the ham to the oven.
6. Continue Baking: Continue baking for another 30-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) and the glaze is beautifully caramelized and sticky. Baste the ham with pan juices (or any glaze that has dripped into the pan) every 15-20 minutes during this final baking period to build up a rich, glossy glaze.
7. Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). This ensures it is heated through and safe to eat.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

1. Rest the Ham: Once the ham reaches 140°F (60°C) and is beautifully glazed, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the ham, resulting in a more moist and tender final product.
2. Carve and Serve: Carve the Cinnamon Honey Glazed Baked Picnic Ham and serve hot.

Following these instructions meticulously will guide you to bake a Cinnamon Honey Glazed Picnic Ham that is moist, flavorful, beautifully glazed, and sure to be a centerpiece your guests will rave about. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts: A Savory-Sweet Delight in Moderation

Cinnamon Honey Glazed Baked Picnic Ham, while undeniably delicious and a centerpiece for special occasions, is important to consider in terms of its nutritional profile. Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving, keeping in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on serving size, specific ham cut, and ingredient measurements:

Serving Size: Approximately 4 ounces (113 grams) of cooked Cinnamon Honey Glazed Baked Picnic Ham (without bone)

Approximate Nutrition Facts Per Serving (4 ounces):

• Calories: 250-350 kcal
• Protein: 20-25 grams
• Fat: 15-25 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 6-10 grams (primarily from ham and butter)
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8-15 grams
• Cholesterol: 70-90 mg (from ham)
• Sodium: 800-1200 mg (depending on ham type and processing)
• Carbohydrates: 10-20 grams
  • Fiber: 0 grams
  • Sugar: 10-20 grams (primarily from honey in glaze)

Key Nutritional Considerations:

• Calories: Picnic ham, especially with a honey glaze, is moderately calorie-dense. Portion control is important, especially if calorie intake is a concern.
• Protein: Ham is a good source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle building, repair, and overall bodily functions.
• Fat: The fat content is primarily from the ham itself and the butter in the glaze. While some unsaturated fat is present, saturated fat is also a significant component. Choose leaner cuts of picnic ham to reduce fat content slightly.
• Cholesterol: Ham contains cholesterol. Individuals monitoring their cholesterol intake should consume ham in moderation.
• Sodium: Ham, being a processed meat, is naturally high in sodium. The sodium content can vary depending on the curing and processing methods. Individuals watching their sodium intake should be mindful of portion sizes and consider lower-sodium ham options if available.
• Sugar: The honey glaze contributes to the sugar content, primarily from natural sugars in honey. While natural sugars are generally considered preferable to added refined sugars, they still contribute to overall carbohydrate and sugar intake.

Tips for Making a Slightly Healthier Cinnamon Honey Glazed Picnic Ham (Moderation and Mindful Choices):

• Choose Leaner Picnic Ham Cuts: Look for picnic ham cuts with less visible fat. Trimming excess fat before cooking can also help reduce fat content.
• Reduce Honey in Glaze (Slightly): You can slightly reduce the amount of honey in the glaze without significantly compromising flavor, if you are watching sugar intake. Start with a slightly smaller amount (e.g., ⅓ cup instead of ½ cup) and taste.
• Increase Dijon Mustard and Apple Cider Vinegar: Increasing the Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar in the glaze can enhance the tangy and acidic notes, potentially allowing you to use slightly less honey while maintaining a balanced flavor profile.
• Serve with Plenty of Vegetables: Balance the richness of the ham by serving it with generous portions of vegetables, salads, and whole grains. This helps create a more balanced meal overall.
• Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes. Enjoy a moderate serving of Cinnamon Honey Glazed Baked Picnic Ham as part of a balanced meal, rather than consuming large quantities.

By understanding the nutritional profile and making mindful choices, you can enjoy Cinnamon Honey Glazed Baked Picnic Ham as a delicious and occasional treat within a balanced eating plan. It’s best enjoyed in moderation as part of a varied diet.

Preparation Time: Planning Your Path to a Delicious Glazed Ham

Baking a Cinnamon Honey Glazed Picnic Ham requires some planning due to the baking time, but the active preparation is relatively straightforward. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated time involved:

• Prep Time: 20-25 minutes (This includes scoring the ham, making the glaze, and preheating the oven.)
• Cook Time: 2-3 hours (This includes baking time, basting, and reaching the desired internal temperature.)
• Resting Time: 10-15 minutes (Resting after baking is crucial for a moist and tender ham.)
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours 40 minutes (from start to finish, including resting).

Time-Saving Tips:

• Make Glaze Ahead: The cinnamon honey glaze can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it gently before brushing on the ham. This saves time on the day of cooking.
• Pre-Scored Ham (If Available): Some picnic hams may be sold pre-scored, which eliminates the scoring step and saves a few minutes of prep time.
• Start Early: Start the ham baking process earlier in the day, especially if you are serving it for a holiday meal or gathering. This allows ample time for baking and resting without feeling rushed.
• Minimal Hands-On Time During Baking: While the total time is several hours, the active hands-on time is relatively short. Most of the time is oven time, allowing you to focus on other dishes or tasks while the ham bakes.

While the total preparation time is a few hours, the active hands-on time is manageable, and the delicious results of a perfectly baked and glazed picnic ham are well worth the effort. Planning ahead and utilizing time-saving tips can make the process even smoother.

How to Serve Cinnamon Honey Glazed Baked Picnic Ham: Presentation and Pairing Ideas

Cinnamon Honey Glazed Baked Picnic Ham is a versatile centerpiece that can be served in numerous ways, from casual family dinners to elegant holiday feasts. Its sweet and savory flavor profile pairs well with a wide range of side dishes and accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your ham experience:

• Classic Holiday Meal Centerpiece:
  • Easter Ham: A perfect Easter ham centerpiece, beautifully glazed and studded with cloves, surrounded by spring-themed side dishes.
  • Christmas Ham: A festive Christmas ham, offering a warm and comforting main course for your holiday dinner.
  • Thanksgiving Alternative: A delicious alternative to turkey for Thanksgiving, especially for smaller gatherings or those who prefer ham.
• Family Dinner Main Course:
  • Sunday Dinner Special: Elevate a Sunday dinner with this flavorful and impressive ham, making it a special occasion meal.
  • Weeknight Treat (Prepped on Weekend): Bake the ham on the weekend and enjoy slices throughout the week for sandwiches, salads, or quick meals.
• Buffet and Party Fare:
  • Party Platter Centerpiece: Slice the ham and arrange it on a large platter as a centerpiece for a buffet table, surrounded by rolls, cheeses, and condiments for guests to make sandwiches.
  • Carving Station: Set up a carving station at a party, allowing guests to serve themselves freshly carved ham slices.
  • Potluck Contribution: Bring a beautifully glazed and sliced Cinnamon Honey Glazed Baked Picnic Ham to a potluck gathering – it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
• Presentation Ideas for Visual Appeal:
  • Whole Ham Presentation: Present the whole, glazed ham on a large platter before carving for a dramatic centerpiece effect. Garnish the platter with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, or with orange or apple slices for a festive touch.
  • Carved Platter Arrangement: Arrange carved ham slices artfully on a platter, slightly overlapping, for an inviting and visually appealing presentation.
  • Garnish with Fresh Herbs and Fruits: Garnish the platter with fresh rosemary sprigs, thyme sprigs, parsley, orange slices, apple slices, or cranberries for added color and visual interest.
  • Serving Trays and Platters: Use attractive serving trays and platters that complement the ham’s color and enhance its presentation.
• Pairing Suggestions for Side Dishes and Accompaniments:
  • Classic Holiday Sides:
    • Scalloped Potatoes or Au Gratin Potatoes: Creamy and cheesy potatoes are a perfect complement to ham.
    • Green Bean Casserole or Roasted Green Beans: Vegetable sides balance the richness of the ham.
    • Sweet Potato Casserole or Mashed Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes enhance the sweet and savory flavor profile.
    • Stuffing or Dressing: Classic holiday stuffing or dressing is a must-have side.
    • Cranberry Sauce or Relish: Cranberry sauce’s tartness cuts through the richness.
  • Fresh and Lighter Sides:
    • Roasted Asparagus or Broccoli: Simple roasted vegetables provide a healthy and flavorful side.
    • Salads (Green Salad, Fruit Salad, or Potato Salad): Salads offer a refreshing contrast.
    • Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw complements the ham’s flavors and textures.
    • Dinner Rolls or Biscuits: Soft rolls or biscuits for serving alongside or making ham sandwiches.
  • Condiments:
    • Mustard (Dijon, Honey Mustard, or Grainy Mustard): Mustards enhance the savory notes.
    • Horseradish Sauce: Horseradish adds a spicy kick.
    • Chutney or Relish: Sweet or savory chutneys and relishes provide flavor complexity.

By considering these serving suggestions and presentation ideas, you can create a memorable and delicious meal centered around your Cinnamon Honey Glazed Baked Picnic Ham, catering to any occasion and taste preferences.

Additional Tips for Cinnamon Honey Glazed Picnic Ham Perfection

To ensure your Cinnamon Honey Glazed Baked Picnic Ham is consistently outstanding and a culinary triumph, consider these additional tips and techniques:

1. Don’t Overbake: Overbaking ham can dry it out, even with a glaze. Use a meat thermometer to accurately monitor the internal temperature and remove the ham from the oven as soon as it reaches 140°F (60°C). Remember that picnic hams are pre-cooked, so you are primarily heating them through and caramelizing the glaze.
2. Baste Frequently During Last Hour: Frequent basting during the last hour of baking is key to building up a thick, glossy, and flavorful glaze. Baste every 15-20 minutes with the pan juices or reserved glaze to ensure the ham is consistently coated and remains moist.
3. Adjust Glaze Consistency (If Needed): If you find the glaze is becoming too thick during simmering or baking, you can thin it slightly by adding a tablespoon or two of water or apple juice. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken.
4. Let Ham Rest Properly: Resting the ham for 10-15 minutes after baking is crucial. Tent it loosely with foil to keep it warm while resting. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and moist carved ham.
5. Use Leftover Ham Creatively: Leftover Cinnamon Honey Glazed Baked Picnic Ham is incredibly versatile. Use it for sandwiches, ham salad, breakfast hash, quiches, frittatas, soups, or pasta dishes. Don’t let any of that delicious ham go to waste!

By incorporating these additional tips, you’ll be well-equipped to create a Cinnamon Honey Glazed Baked Picnic Ham that is not only delicious but also consistently perfect in texture, flavor, and presentation, making you a ham-baking pro.

FAQ: Your Burning Questions About Cinnamon Honey Glazed Baked Picnic Ham Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Cinnamon Honey Glazed Baked Picnic Ham to help you troubleshoot, customize, and ensure ham-baking success:

Q1: Can I use a different type of ham for this recipe?

A: Yes, while this recipe specifically calls for picnic ham, you can adapt it for other types of ham.

• Spiral-Cut Ham: A spiral-cut ham will work beautifully with this glaze. Reduce the baking time significantly as spiral-cut hams are typically smaller and cook faster. Follow package instructions for heating, and apply the glaze during the last 30-45 minutes of heating.
• Bone-In Ham Shank or Butt Portion: These larger ham portions can also be used. Adjust baking time according to the size and weight of the ham, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). You may need to increase the glaze recipe slightly for larger hams.
• Boneless Ham: Boneless ham can be used, but it tends to be less flavorful and can dry out more easily. Reduce baking time and monitor closely to prevent overcooking.

Q2: Can I make the Cinnamon Honey Glaze spicier?

A: Yes, you can easily add a spicy kick to the cinnamon honey glaze.

• Add Chili Flakes: Stir in ½ – 1 teaspoon of red chili flakes into the glaze while simmering for a subtle heat.
• Cayenne Pepper: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a more direct heat. Start with ¼ teaspoon and adjust to taste.
• Hot Sauce: Whisk in a tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce (like sriracha or Tabasco) into the glaze for both heat and flavor complexity.
• Ginger: Add a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger to the glaze for a warm and spicy note.

Q3: How long can I store leftover Cinnamon Honey Glazed Baked Picnic Ham?

A: Leftover Cinnamon Honey Glazed Baked Picnic Ham should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and is best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal quality and food safety. Ensure it is properly refrigerated within 2 hours of cooking.

Q4: Can I freeze leftover baked ham?

A: Yes, you can freeze leftover baked ham. Slice or cube the ham and store it in freezer-safe bags or containers. Frozen ham is best used within 2-3 months for optimal quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Freezing may slightly alter the texture, making it a bit drier, but it’s still a good way to preserve leftovers.

Q5: My glaze is too thick/thin. How do I fix it?

A:

• Too Thick Glaze: If the glaze becomes too thick while simmering or baking, thin it out by adding a tablespoon or two of water or apple juice and stirring until it reaches the desired consistency.
• Too Thin Glaze: If the glaze is too thin after simmering, continue to simmer it over low heat for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reduces and thickens to a syrupy consistency. Be careful not to let it burn.

By addressing these FAQs, you’ll be well-prepared to confidently make and enjoy Cinnamon Honey Glazed Baked Picnic Ham, customize it to your liking, and handle any ham-baking challenges that may arise. Enjoy your flavorful and impressive ham centerpiece!

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