As the rich aromas of Thanksgiving waft through the house, there’s an undeniable magic in the air that brings everyone together. This year, let’s elevate your holiday feast with the star of the show: Smoked Honey Glazed Ham. Not only does this recipe deliver a beautiful balance of sweet and savory flavors, but it’s also a time-saver, making it perfect for those bustling holiday gatherings. No more slaving away in the kitchen—this dish is both crowd-pleasing and easy to prepare ahead of time, allowing you to focus on what really matters: family, friends, and making memories. Ready to uncover the secret to a festive centerpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds? Let’s dive into this delicious tradition!

Why Choose Smoked Honey Glazed Ham?

Irresistible Flavor: The sweet, smoky glaze adds a unique twist to a classic dish, making it a standout at your holiday table.

Effortless Preparation: With simple steps and make-ahead options, this recipe frees you from last-minute stress.

Family-Friendly: Adults and kids alike will rave about this succulent ham—perfect for bringing everyone together.

Versatile Serving: Pair with traditional sides like Dijon Glazed Ham or fresh salads to balance the richness.

Instant Crowd-Pleaser: Its mouthwatering aroma and stunning presentation make it a true conversation starter during gatherings.

Smoked Honey Glazed Ham Ingredients

Elevate your holiday feast with these essential ingredients for a stunning centerpiece!

For the Ham

Bone-in Ham – Opt for a fully-cooked bone-in ham for the best flavor and presentation.
Honey – Adds a sweet glaze that caramelizes beautifully during smoking.
Dijon Mustard – Provides a tangy depth that balances the sweetness of the honey.
Brown Sugar – Enhances the glaze with a rich, melty sweetness that complements the ham.

For the Spices

Ground Cinnamon – Brings warmth and a hint of spice to the glaze, evoking feelings of comfort.
Ground Cloves – Just a pinch adds a distinctive aroma and flavor that charms everyone at the table.
Black Pepper – A dash adds contrast to the sweet glaze, rounding out the flavors harmoniously.

For the Smoking

Wood Chips (Hickory or Apple) – Infuse a deliciously smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the ham.

With the Smoked Honey Glazed Ham, your holiday table is sure to shine and create memories that linger long after the meal is over!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Smoked Honey Glazed Ham

Step 1: Prepare the Ham
Begin by preheating your smoker to 225°F (107°C). While that warms up, score the surface of your fully-cooked bone-in ham in a diamond pattern, about half an inch deep. This allows the smoky flavor and glaze to penetrate deeper. Place the ham in a roasting pan to catch the drippings, and set aside while you make the glaze.

Step 2: Make the Glaze
In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of honey, 1/2 cup of Dijon mustard, and 1/2 cup of brown sugar over medium heat. Stir until the brown sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth, for about 5 minutes. Add in 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves, and a dash of black pepper for added depth. Remove from heat and let the glaze cool slightly before brushing it onto the ham.

Step 3: Smoke the Ham
Once your smoker is at the right temperature, add a handful of hickory or apple wood chips for a delightful smoky flavor. Carefully place the scored ham on the smoker rack. Close the lid and smoke for approximately 3 to 4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Check occasionally to ensure a consistent temperature and avoid drying out.

Step 4: Glaze During Smoking
After the ham has been smoking for around 2 hours, begin brushing it with the prepared honey glaze every 30 minutes. This layering creates a rich, caramelized crust that elevates the Smoked Honey Glazed Ham to new levels of deliciousness. By the end of the smoking process, your ham should have a beautifully glossy, sticky surface.

Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once the internal temperature hits 140°F (60°C), remove the smoked ham from the smoker and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Allow it to rest for 20–30 minutes—the resting time enhances juiciness. When ready to serve, slice off the bone and arrange on a platter. Drizzle with any remaining glaze for an extra touch of flavor.

Make Ahead Options

Prepare your Smoked Honey Glazed Ham ahead of time to make your holiday meal stress-free! You can score the ham and make your glaze up to 24 hours in advance. Store the scored ham covered in the refrigerator, and keep the glaze in an airtight container. This ensures maximum flavor infusion and convenience. On the day of your feast, simply brush the ham with the chilled glaze and smoke it according to the instructions, adding an additional 30 minutes to the cooking time for a deliciously caramelized finish. By prepping ahead, you’ll free up crucial time to focus on family and festivities while still serving a stunning centerpiece.

What to Serve with Smoked Honey Glazed Ham?

The perfect side dishes can enhance the experience of your delightful ham, creating a memorable holiday feast.

Classic Scalloped Potatoes: Layers of creamy potatoes baked to golden perfection provide a rich and comforting contrast to your smoky ham.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of these sprouts, caramelized in the oven, harmonizes beautifully with the sweetness of the glaze. They add a vibrant touch to your table.
Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cranberries, and a citrus vinaigrette balances the richness of the ham, offering a refreshing bite.
Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet caramelized carrots echo the ham’s flavors and add a pop of color, making your holiday spread visually appealing.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of homemade cranberry sauce provides a sharp contrast that brightens each bite of the ham, enhancing the overall taste experience.
Cornbread Muffins: These moist, slightly sweet muffins are the perfect sidekick, soaking up juices while adding a delightful texture to your plate.
Bourbon Maple Glaze: Drizzling this sweet and savory sauce over sides like roasted sweet potatoes will elevate your feast with deep, warm flavors.
Bakery-Style Dinner Rolls: Soft and fluffy rolls are perfect for sopping up any delicious leftover glaze, creating a comforting add-on to your meal.
Apple Pie: Finish your feast with a slice of warm apple pie, its spices complementing the smokiness of the ham, leaving everyone with a sweet memory of the meal.

Expert Tips for Smoked Honey Glazed Ham

Perfect Temperature: Always smoke the ham at 225°F (107°C) for optimal flavor infusion without drying out.

Scoring Technique: Scoring in a diamond pattern not only beautifies the ham but allows the glaze to penetrate deeper for richer flavor.

Glazing Timing: Begin glazing after the first 2 hours of smoking to achieve that sought-after caramelized crust on the Smoked Honey Glazed Ham.

Resting Period: Don’t skip the resting step; it ensures your ham stays juicy and tender, making every bite a delight.

Wood Chip Choice: Experiment with different wood chips, like apple or hickory, to find your perfect balance of sweetness and smokiness.

Safety First: Always check internal temperature; aim for 140°F (60°C) for perfectly smoked ham.

Variations & Substitutions for Smoked Honey Glazed Ham

Feel free to customize your Smoked Honey Glazed Ham to suit your taste and dietary needs—let your creativity shine!

Maple Glaze: Swap honey for pure maple syrup to introduce a delightful, earthy sweetness to the glaze.
Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the glaze for a fiery kick that perfectly complements the sweet ham.
Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the glaze for an aromatic pop of flavor that will amaze your guests.
Citrus Zing: Mix in the zest and juice of an orange or lemon to brighten the flavor profile, adding a refreshing citrus note to the sweetness.
Brown Sugar Alternative: For those watching sugar intake, use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia, achieving a similar sweetness without the calories.
Pineapple Addition: Brush the ham with pineapple juice before glazing for a tropical twist; it enhances both sweetness and moisture while infusing a delightful flavor.
Savory Glaze: Mix in a teaspoon of soy sauce to the honey glaze to transform it into a sweet-savory masterpiece that will make taste buds dance.
Stuffed Variation: Consider stuffing the ham with a savory mixture of dried fruits and nuts before glazing for an unexpected texture and delicious flavor contrast.

These variations are designed to spark excitement in your kitchen as you craft an unforgettable centerpiece for your holiday feast. Celebrate with unique twists and enjoy your time with family and friends!

How to Store and Freeze Smoked Honey Glazed Ham

Fridge: Store leftover Smoked Honey Glazed Ham in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain its flavor and moisture.

Freezer: Wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for freezing. It can last up to 2 months when properly stored.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then place in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through, about 20–30 minutes.

Slicing Ahead: For easier serving, consider slicing the ham before refrigerating or freezing; just remember to keep moisture locked in with your wrapping!

Smoked Honey Glazed Ham Recipe FAQs

What kind of ham should I use for Smoked Honey Glazed Ham?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and presentation, I recommend using a fully-cooked bone-in ham. This type not only offers superior taste but also provides a beautiful centerpiece for your holiday table.

How do I store leftover Smoked Honey Glazed Ham?
To keep your leftover ham fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to seal it well to maintain its moisture and flavor, so every bite remains a delight!

Can I freeze Smoked Honey Glazed Ham?
Yes, you can! To freeze your ham, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This will help prevent freezer burn. Properly stored, it can last up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How do I reheat the ham without drying it out?
Great question! To reheat your Smoked Honey Glazed Ham, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). If it’s whole, place it in a baking dish with a splash of water to create steam. If it’s sliced, cover it with foil to lock in moisture. Heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through, checking often to prevent drying out.

What if the ham wasn’t smoked enough?
If you find that the flavor of your ham isn’t smoky enough, you might consider a quick fix for future meals. Next time, try using hickory or apple wood chips during smoking for that extra layer of flavor. If you need an immediate solution, you could briefly brush it with a smoky barbecue sauce or serve with smoky sides to complement the flavor!

Can pets eat Smoked Honey Glazed Ham?
While a small bite of plain ham can be okay for dogs, be cautious! The glaze and spices in Smoked Honey Glazed Ham are not pet-friendly and may upset their stomachs. It’s best to keep human food as treats on special occasions and always check with your vet if you’re unsure.