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: 8-10 servings
Ingredients: 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds); 1 cup cherry preserves; 1/2 cup bourbon; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

Highlighted under: Festive Food Recipes

This Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham Centerpiece is a stunning dish perfect for any festive occasion. The sweet and tangy glaze combines the richness of bourbon with luscious cherries, creating a flavor explosion that complements the savory ham beautifully.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-12T19:28:51.099Z

This Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham Centerpiece is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors. The combination of sweet cherries and smooth bourbon creates a gourmet experience that is sure to impress your guests.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Sweet and savory flavors that delight the palate
A stunning centerpiece for holiday gatherings
Easy to prepare with impressive results

      

The Perfect Holiday Centerpiece

When it comes to festive gatherings, a beautifully glazed ham is a showstopper that never fails to impress. This Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham Centerpiece not only tastes divine but also adds a touch of elegance to your dining table. The vibrant colors of the glaze and the inviting aroma will draw your guests in, making it the highlight of your meal.

Serving this ham is a wonderful way to bring family and friends together. Its sweet and savory profile caters to a variety of palates, ensuring that everyone will find something to love. Whether it’s Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any special occasion, this ham will leave a lasting impression.

Flavor Profile and Ingredient Harmony

The magic of this dish lies in the harmonious blend of flavors. The richness of the bourbon enhances the natural sweetness of the cherries, creating a glaze that is both tangy and indulgent. Brown sugar adds depth, while Dijon mustard brings a subtle kick that elevates the overall taste.

Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a balanced flavor profile. The warm spices like cinnamon and cloves add complexity and warmth, making every bite a delightful experience. This carefully curated blend is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, allowing you to focus on enjoying the moment with your loved ones.

Tips for the Best Glazed Ham

To achieve the perfect glaze, patience is key. Make sure to brush the ham with the glaze every 20 minutes while baking. This technique ensures that the flavors develop beautifully and that the ham gets a lovely caramelized crust. Additionally, scoring the surface of the ham allows the glaze to penetrate deeper, enhancing the flavor throughout.

Letting the ham rest after baking is another crucial step. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that each slice is tender and juicy. Pair this stunning centerpiece with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a festive meal that will be remembered for years to come.

Ingredients

For the Ham

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

Combine these ingredients to create the perfect sweet glaze for your ham!

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 to allow the glaze to penetrate.

Make the Glaze

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cherry preserves, bourbon, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and cloves. Stir until well combined and simmer for 5 minutes.

Glaze the Ham

Brush the glaze generously over the ham, reserving some for later.

Bake the Ham

Bake the ham in the preheated oven, uncovered, for about 90 minutes, brushing with the reserved glaze every 20 minutes.

Serve

Once the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C), remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham with your favorite side dishes!

Serving Suggestions

To complement the Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham, consider serving a variety of side dishes that enhance its rich flavors. Roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a refreshing salad can provide balance and texture to your meal. Don't forget a selection of breads to soak up any extra glaze, allowing guests to enjoy every last drop.

For beverages, a light red wine or a fruity cocktail pairs beautifully with the ham, enhancing the overall dining experience. If you're hosting a larger gathering, consider offering a buffet-style setup where guests can serve themselves, making for a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

Storage and Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, you’re in for a treat! The glazed ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheat slices gently in the oven or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep them moist. The flavors may even intensify, making leftovers just as enjoyable as the first serving.

Leftover ham is incredibly versatile. Use it in sandwiches, salads, or casseroles for a quick and satisfying meal. You can also cube the ham and toss it into soups or omelets for a delicious twist. The possibilities are endless, and you’ll love how one dish can transform into many delightful meals.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of fruit preserve?

Yes, you can substitute cherry preserves with apricot or peach for a different flavor profile.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the glaze a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What sides pair well with this ham?

Consider serving it with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad.