Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham Centerpiece

Name: Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham Centerpiece
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Yield: 8-10 servings
Ingredients: 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (6-8 pounds); 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup bourbon; 1 cup cherry preserves; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon ground cloves; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Recipes

This Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham Centerpiece is a show-stopping dish perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions, featuring a sweet and tangy glaze that elevates the savory flavors of the ham.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-12-12T18:26:16.497Z

This dish combines the rich flavors of bourbon and cherries, creating a perfect balance that enhances the natural sweetness of ham. It's an ideal centerpiece for your dining table, inviting everyone to enjoy a slice of this delicious creation.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Sweet and smoky glaze that tantalizes the taste buds
Juicy ham that is easy to carve and serve
Impressive presentation that will wow your guests

      

The Perfect Holiday Dish

When it comes to holiday gatherings, having a centerpiece dish that impresses your guests is essential. The Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham is not just a meal; it's a statement. The combination of sweet cherry preserves and rich bourbon creates a glaze that beautifully complements the savory ham, making it a delightful choice for festive occasions.

Imagine the aroma wafting through your home as this ham bakes, inviting friends and family to gather around the table. This dish not only fills bellies but also hearts, as it brings everyone together to celebrate moments that matter. Plus, the vibrant colors of the glaze make it visually appealing, ensuring it stands out on any holiday table.

Easy Preparation and Cooking

One of the best things about this Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can create a dish that looks and tastes gourmet. The use of a fully cooked ham means you spend less time worrying about cooking times and more time enjoying the company of your guests.

The glaze can be prepared in minutes, allowing you to focus on other dishes or even relax before the festivities begin. By basting the ham throughout the cooking process, you ensure every bite is infused with flavor, making it a hassle-free yet impressive dish for any occasion.

Serving Suggestions

This ham pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it versatile enough for any holiday menu. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad to balance out the rich flavors of the ham. Don't forget to provide plenty of rolls for soaking up the delicious glaze!

For a truly festive experience, complement the meal with a selection of wines or holiday cocktails. The sweet and smoky notes of the ham work beautifully with fruity reds or even a spiced rum punch, enhancing the overall dining experience and leaving your guests raving about the meal long after the last bite.

Ingredients

For the Ham

1 fully cooked bone-in ham (6-8 pounds)
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup bourbon
1 cup cherry preserves
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Combine all ingredients to create a flavorful glaze that complements the ham perfectly.

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Ham

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, cut side down.

Make the Glaze

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, bourbon, cherry preserves, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon. Stir until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is smooth.

Glaze the Ham

Brush half of the glaze over the ham, reserving the rest for later. Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil.

Bake the Ham

Bake in the preheated oven for about 1.5 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the reserved glaze.

Finish and Serve

Remove the foil for the last 30 minutes of baking to caramelize the glaze. Once finished, let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham with your favorite sides!

Storing Leftovers

If you're lucky enough to have leftovers from your Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham, storing them properly is essential for maintaining flavor and freshness. Allow the ham to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can also wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out in the refrigerator.

Leftover ham can be kept in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a bit of glaze to refresh the flavors. This way, you can savor the deliciousness long after the holiday celebrations are over.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to experiment with the glaze by adding your unique twist! For a spicier kick, consider incorporating a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the glaze. Alternatively, if you prefer a fruitier flavor, you can mix in crushed pineapple or orange marmalade for a tropical touch.

Additionally, swap out the bourbon for apple cider or a non-alcoholic alternative if you want to cater to a wider audience. These variations can enhance the flavor profile and keep the dish exciting for repeat celebrations, ensuring that your Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham remains a favorite year after year.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of alcohol?

Yes, you can substitute the bourbon with rum or apple cider for a different flavor profile.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the glaze a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just warm it up before glazing the ham.

→ What sides pair well with this ham?

Great sides include mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad to complement the flavors of the ham.