When you want a ham that delivers both impressive presentation and incredible flavor, this Cherry Bourbon-Glazed Ham combines sweet-tart cherries with smooth bourbon in a glossy glaze that caramelizes into pure magic during roasting. The spiral-cut ham provides the perfect canvas, with each slice developing crispy, caramelized edges while remaining tender and juicy inside. The cherry-bourbon glaze adds sophisticated sweetness with depth from the bourbon, creating layers of flavor that transform ordinary ham into an extraordinary celebration centerpiece. Perfect for Easter, Christmas, family gatherings, or any occasion deserving something special, this recipe serves 12-16 people and takes about 2.5 hours from start to finish.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes prep, 2 hours roasting
Serves: 12-16 people
What You’ll Need
For the ham:
- 1 fully cooked spiral-cut ham (8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup water for the pan
For the cherry bourbon glaze:
- 1 cup cherry preserves or cherry jam
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of salt
For garnish:
- Fresh cherries with stems
- Fresh thyme sprigs
- Orange slices
Preparing the Ham
Remove the ham from the refrigerator 1 hour before cooking to bring it to room temperature. This ensures even heating throughout during roasting.
Setting Up for Success
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees. Line a large roasting pan with heavy-duty foil for easier cleanup, as the glaze will caramelize and can be sticky.
Creating a Rack
Place the ham cut-side down on a roasting rack set in the pan. Add water to the bottom of the pan to create moisture and prevent burning.
Tenting for Moisture
Cover the ham loosely with foil, creating a tent that doesn’t touch the surface. This prevents the top from drying out during the initial roasting.
The Initial Roast
Roast for 1 hour and 15 minutes. This slow, gentle heating warms the ham through without drying it out, preparing it for the glaze.
Making the Glaze
While the ham roasts, combine cherry preserves, bourbon, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, vinegar, cinnamon, cloves, pepper, and salt in a medium saucepan.
Simmering to Perfection
Bring the glaze to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently. Cook for 8-10 minutes until slightly thickened and the alcohol cooks off, leaving rich bourbon flavor.
Straining for Smoothness
For a smoother glaze, strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove cherry pieces. For more texture and visual interest, leave them in.
The First Glaze
After the initial roasting, remove the foil and brush the ham generously with about one-third of the glaze, making sure to get between the slices.
Back to the Oven
Return the uncovered ham to the oven and roast for 20 minutes. The glaze will start to caramelize and create that beautiful glossy coating.
Second Glaze Application
Remove and brush with another third of the glaze. The ham should be developing a gorgeous mahogany color and the kitchen should smell incredible.
Final Glazing
Roast for another 20-25 minutes, then apply the remaining glaze. This triple-glazing creates incredible depth of flavor and that signature sticky-sweet coating.
Testing for Doneness
The ham is ready when a meat thermometer inserted in the thickest part reads 140 degrees and the exterior is beautifully caramelized and glossy.
The Essential Rest
Remove from oven and let rest for 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows juices to redistribute and makes slicing easier and neater.
Collecting the Pan Juices
Strain the pan juices and skim off excess fat. These flavorful drippings can be served alongside the ham or used to make gravy.
Beautiful Presentation
Transfer the glazed ham to a large serving platter. The glossy, caramelized exterior should glisten under the light.
Garnishing with Style
Arrange fresh cherries with stems around the ham, add sprigs of fresh thyme, and tuck orange slices between for color and aroma.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with classic sides like scalloped potatoes, green beans, or sweet potato casserole. The sweet ham balances well with savory, creamy sides.
Carving Tips
Since it’s spiral-cut, simply slice along the bone between the slices. Serve with a slotted spoon to leave excess liquid behind.
Wine Pairing
This sweet-glazed ham pairs beautifully with off-dry Riesling, sparkling rosé, or even a light Pinot Noir that complements the cherry flavors.
Make-Ahead Strategy
The glaze can be made up to 3 days ahead and refrigerated. Reheat gently before brushing on the ham.
Storage Guidelines
Leftover ham keeps refrigerated for up to 5 days. Store wrapped tightly and use for sandwiches, soup, or breakfast hash.
Reheating Tips
Reheat slices in a 325-degree oven covered with foil and a splash of water or apple juice to prevent drying out.
Understanding Spiral-Cut
Pre-sliced spiral-cut hams are easiest for serving and allow the glaze to penetrate between slices for maximum flavor.
Alcohol Concerns
Most of the alcohol cooks off during simmering and roasting, leaving only the bourbon’s flavor. For alcohol-free, substitute apple juice.
Customization Options
Try raspberry or apricot preserves instead of cherry. Add a tablespoon of orange zest to the glaze for citrus notes.
Troubleshooting Tips
If glaze burns, tent with foil for remaining cooking time. If ham is dry, it was cooked too long or at too high temperature.
Scaling for Crowds
For larger gatherings, this recipe works with hams up to 15 pounds. Add 10-15 minutes per additional pound of ham.
This Cherry Bourbon-Glazed Ham proves that holiday centerpieces can be both impressive and achievable. The combination of sweet cherries, smooth bourbon, and aromatic spices creates a glaze that transforms ordinary ham into something extraordinary, making every slice a celebration and every gathering more memorable with a centerpiece worthy of the finest occasions.
