How to Cook Apricot Brown Sugar Ham in Easy Steps

Get ready to bring some serious flavor to your dinner table with this Apricot Brown Sugar Ham! Picture this: a succulent, glazed ham that practically sings the praises of sweet and smoky delights. It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience for your taste buds! Let’s dive into how you can embark on this culinary adventure in your kitchen.

Picture This Ham

Feast your eyes on this mouthwatering masterpiece! This isn’t just any ham; this is the star of your feast, the shiny centerpiece that has everyone coming back for seconds (and thirds). Let’s gaze at this ham’s glorious exterior, all thanks to a blend of sweet apricot goodness and a sprinkle of brown sugar.

Apricot Brown Sugar Ham

Ingredients that Pack a Punch

Here’s what you’ll need to summon this delicious ham spell:

  • 1 fully-cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)
  • 1 cup apricot preserves
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cloves

Preparation Time: Let’s Get Cookin’!

Now that you’ve assembled your ingredients, it’s time to get cooking! Here’s the simple, yet oh-so-satisfying way to prepare this fabulous ham:

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, about 1/4 inch deep. This helps the glaze seep in, making it even more irresistible!
  3. In a bowl, mix together the apricot preserves, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and ground cloves. Stir it up until you have a smooth, sweet blend.
  4. Brush about half of this glaze all over your glorious ham. Don’t be shy—get in there and coat it like it deserves!
  5. Place the ham in a roasting pan and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Pop it into the oven and let it bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes.
  6. Once the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C), remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 15 – 20 minutes until caramelized and golden.
  7. When it’s done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 20 minutes before slicing. This allows all the delicious juices to settle in!

And there you have it! The show-stopping Apricot Brown Sugar Ham ready to impress your family and friends. Serve it up warm, and prepare yourself for the applause as everyone digs in!