Root Beer-Glazed Ham: A Festive Showstopper for Every Table
A sweet-and-spicy glaze yields glossy, tender slices for unforgettable family gatherings.
If you’re searching for a holiday centerpiece that’s equal parts classic and innovative, look no further than root beer-glazed ham. This recipe elevates traditional baked ham by bathing it in a sweet, tangy, and spiced glaze made with root beer—delivering an aromatic, glossy finish that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re planning Easter lunch, Christmas dinner, or a family get-together, this dish promises flavor and showmanship in every slice.
Why Choose Root Beer for Your Ham Glaze?
Root beer might not be your first thought when glazing a ham, but its complex blend of spices—think vanilla, licorice, and sarsaparilla—pairs beautifully with the salty, savory richness of ham. Combined with jelly, spicy mustard, and vinegar, it carves out a flavor profile that’s both bold and nostalgic.
- Sweetness: Root beer’s sugar content caramelizes smoothly in the oven.
- Spice: Its subtle botanicals and spice notes enhance both cured ham and the tang of mustard or vinegar.
- Shine: When reduced, root beer contributes to a gorgeous, shiny glaze that makes the ham as good to look at as it is to eat.
Ingredient Spotlight
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Bone-in half ham (fully cooked) | 10 to 12 lbs | Main protein; stays moist and flavorful |
| Root beer | 1 (12-oz) can | Main sweetener and flavor for glaze |
| Plum jelly | 1 1/2 cups | Fruity tang and richness for the glaze |
| Spicy brown mustard | 1/2 cup | Brings sharpness and subtle heat |
| Apple cider vinegar | 3 Tbsp. | Acidity to balance the sweetness |
Step-by-Step: The Root Beer-Glazed Ham Process
1. Score and Bake the Ham
Preheat your oven to 325°F. Remove your ham from its packaging and score the surface in a diamond pattern, about 1/8-inch deep. This crosshatch design isn’t just for looks—it helps the glaze work its magic by penetrating deeper into the meat. Nestle the ham on a rack inside a roasting pan, tent it loosely with foil, and bake for 2 hours to gently warm the center and prepare it for basting.
2. Craft the Root Beer Glaze
While the ham roasts, combine root beer, plum jelly, spicy brown mustard, and apple cider vinegar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Let this mixture bubble and reduce for about 30 minutes, forming a thick but pourable glaze. The key is patience—reducing too quickly or without stirring may cause the glaze to scorch or boil over. Watch it carefully, and stir occasionally for an even texture.
3. Glaze, Bake, and Repeat
- After 2 hours, remove the foil from your ham. Using a pastry brush or spoon, lavish a generous layer of warm glaze over its surface.
- Return the ham, uncovered, to the oven. Every 20 minutes, brush on more glaze. Continue for 1 more hour, or until the ham develops a deep, glossy sheen. The aroma will be irresistible!
- When done, let the ham rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This ensures juiciness and easier slicing.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Glazed Ham
- Score for Success: Be gentle when scoring—just enough to make shallow diamonds on the fat cap. Deeper cuts may cause the ham to dry.
- Foil First, Then Uncover: Covering with foil initially prevents the outside from drying out. Uncovering later lets the glaze caramelize perfectly.
- Rest Before Serving: Always rest your ham before slicing for evenly distributed juices and maximum tenderness.
- Use a Rack: Elevating the ham ensures even heat circulation and prevents sogginess.
Glaze Variations and Substitutions
- Swap the Jelly: If plum jelly isn’t available, try grape, cherry, or apricot preserves.
- Different Sodas: Cola or Dr Pepper can substitute for root beer, imparting slightly different but delicious flavors.
- Mustard Choices: Use Dijon or whole grain in place of spicy brown for a subtler finish.
- Additional Spices: A pinch of ground cloves, cinnamon, or smoked paprika can offer extra warmth and aroma.
Serving Suggestions
Root beer-glazed ham takes center stage at any festive meal, but pairing it with the right side dishes turns it into a well-rounded feast. Here are some partner plates to consider:
- Cheesy asparagus casserole for a creamy, seasonal side.
- Lemon chess pie or a pink lemonade sheet cake to balance the savory main with something bright and sweet.
- Roasted baby potatoes or buttered peas for those seeking simplicity.
- Classic biscuits or dinner rolls to soak up every drop of glaze.
How to Carve and Store Leftovers
Carving Tips
- Let the ham rest 15–20 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
- Use a sharp carving knife. Slice against the grain in thin, uniform pieces for maximum tenderness.
- Serve slices drizzled with additional leftover glaze for extra flavor.
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store extra ham in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Break it down into slices or chunks for easy access.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze slices in resealable bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Use leftovers in sandwiches, omelets, soups, or tossed with pasta and vegetables for quick weeknight meals.
Root Beer-Glazed Ham: Recipe Recap
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: About 3 hours total
- Yield: 14–18 servings
- Main Steps: Score – Bake – Glaze – Bake Again – Rest – Carve
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a spiral-cut ham instead of a non-sliced ham?
A: Yes, a spiral-sliced ham works beautifully. Simply follow the same glazing and baking instructions, being careful to get glaze between the slices for enhanced flavor and moisture. Adjust cooking time slightly if the ham is smaller or pre-sliced.
Q: How do I prevent the glaze from burning?
A: Keep a close eye on the glaze when simmering—it can boil over if unattended. When glazing in the oven, frequent basting and not over-reducing the glaze in the saucepan will help prevent scorching or burning.
Q: Is it possible to make the glaze in advance?
A: Absolutely. Prepare the glaze up to 2 days ahead. Cool, store in the refrigerator, and reheat before brushing on the ham as directed.
Q: What if I don’t like root beer?
A: The root beer flavor mellows and melds with the other ingredients, but you can substitute cola or Dr Pepper for a different take while preserving the spirit of the recipe.
Q: Can I use a boneless ham?
A: Yes, boneless hams can be used, though bone-in remains moister and more flavorful. Adjust baking time for the size and shape of your ham.
Holiday and Special Occasion Inspiration
While this ham is a beloved Easter tradition, don’t hesitate to serve it for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any celebratory gathering. Its bold glaze and stunning presentation effortlessly complement both intimate brunches and lavish dinners. Not to mention, its leftovers are a gift that keeps on giving—think hearty ham sandwiches, creamy omelets, or savory breakfast hashes.
Conclusion: Bring Bold Flavor to Your Table
Root beer-glazed ham is the ultimate answer to a memorable centerpiece—fusing tradition with a playful twist. The sweet, tangy, and slightly spiced notes of the glaze create a multi-layered flavor that appeals to all ages. Follow the simple steps, make it your own with recommended variations, and you’ll soon have friends and family asking for this recipe every holiday. Happy feasting!
References
- https://www.womansday.com/food-recipes/food-drinks/recipes/a12452/root-beer-glazed-ham-recipe-wdy0414/
- https://www.thespiffycookie.com/2017/03/27/root-beer-glazed-ham/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a35700800/root-beer-glazed-ham/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ASpwAKy_Eog
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a10963/glazed-easter-ham/
- https://www.eatyourbooks.com/library/recipes/2942133/root-beer-glazed-ham
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