Maple Glazed Ham Recipe for 9x13 Pan

If you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece that combines sweet and savory flavors, this maple glazed ham baked in a 9×13 pan is perfect. It’s easy to prepare, stays moist, and the glossy maple glaze creates an irresistible finish. Ideal for holiday dinners, family gatherings, or Sunday brunch, this recipe delivers tender ham with a flavorful, caramelized coating that everyone will love.

Ingredients

1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)
1 cup pure maple syrup
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (for glaze)
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
Remove the ham from its packaging and discard any excess rind, leaving the layer of fat intact. Score the surface in a diamond pattern if desired to help the glaze penetrate.

Place the ham in the prepared baking dish, cut side down. Cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent drying out during baking.
Bake the ham for about 15-18 minutes per pound, or until heated through and a thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 140°F (60°C). For an 8-10 pound ham, this will be approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.
While the ham is baking, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and cloves. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.

About 30 minutes before the ham is done, remove the foil and brush the glaze generously over the surface of the ham. Repeat this glazing process every 10 minutes during the last 30 minutes of baking to build a rich, caramelized coating.
Once the ham reaches 140°F and is nicely glazed, remove it from the oven. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if desired.
Slice and serve warm, spooning any extra glaze from the pan over the slices for added flavor.

Tips

Substitutions: Use honey or maple syrup combined with a splash of orange juice if you don’t have pure maple syrup.
Storage: Leftover ham can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, brushing with additional glaze if desired.
Common mistakes: Avoid overcooking the ham, which can lead to dryness. Use a thermometer to ensure it’s heated to the correct internal temperature.

Glaze consistency: If the glaze becomes too thick, add a little hot water or apple cider vinegar to loosen it before applying.

Serving Suggestions

This maple glazed ham pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. For a festive touch, serve with warm dinner rolls or cornbread and a side of cranberry sauce or apple chutney. The sweet and savory flavors make it versatile enough to complement a variety of sides, making it a crowd-pleasing main course for any special occasion.

Variations

For a different flavor profile, consider adding a splash of bourbon or apple brandy to the glaze. You can also incorporate herbs like rosemary or thyme into the glaze for an herbal twist. If you prefer a spicier glaze, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. For a smoky flavor, brush the ham with a little liquid smoke before glazing. Adjust the sweetness level by varying the amount of brown sugar or maple syrup to suit your taste.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover maple glazed ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Place the ham slices or whole piece in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat slices in the microwave on medium power in 30-second intervals until hot, brushing with extra glaze if desired. For best results, reheat in the oven to maintain moisture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a precooked ham or do I need to cook it first?

This recipe is designed for a fully cooked ham. If you’re using a precooked ham, you only need to reheat it to 140°F and apply the glaze during the last 30-40 minutes of baking. If your ham is raw, you’ll need to cook it to an internal temperature of 145°F, which may require adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

How do I know when the ham is done?

The best way to determine doneness is by using an instant-read thermometer. The ham should reach an internal temperature of 140°F for fully cooked ham or 145°F if raw. Check the temperature at the thickest part of the meat without touching the bone for an accurate reading.

Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the maple glaze a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop before brushing it onto the ham. This helps save time during cooking and ensures the flavors meld well.

What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?

If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, you can substitute with white vinegar, lemon juice, or apple juice. These alternatives will still add acidity to balance the sweetness of the glaze. Adjust the amount slightly to taste.

Is it necessary to score the ham?

Scoring the ham is optional but recommended. It allows the glaze to penetrate deeper into the meat and creates an attractive presentation. Use a sharp knife to cut shallow diamond shapes across the surface before baking.

Can I make this recipe in advance for a party?

Absolutely. You can prepare and glaze the ham a day ahead. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven before serving. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it even more delicious.

Enjoy this flavorful maple glazed ham that’s perfect for any celebration or family dinner. Its combination of sweet, tangy, and savory notes ensures it will be a memorable dish your guests will ask for again and again.

Maple Glazed Ham Recipe for 9×13 Pan