Best Smoked Honey Glazed Ham is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or just an indulgent weekend meal. This recipe combines the smokiness of hickory or applewood with the sweet, sticky glaze of honey and pineapple. Follow this guide to create a flavorful, tender ham that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why Choose Best Smoked Honey Glazed Ham?
The combination of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors makes this dish unforgettable. Smoking the ham infuses it with a rich depth, while the honey glaze adds a beautiful caramelized finish. This recipe is not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
Ingredients for the Best Smoked Honey Glazed Ham
Here’s everything you need to create the perfect smoked honey-glazed ham:
- 1 bone-in ham (preferably with a thick fat cap for maximum flavor)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 3/4 cup honey
- 1 stick butter (melted)
- 1 tablespoon black pepper (coarsely ground)
- 1 cup wood chips or charcoal (hickory, apple, or cherry recommended)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ham
- Remove the ham from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, 1/3 cup of honey, and 1 cup of pineapple juice.
- Brush this mixture generously over the entire ham, ensuring it gets into all the crevices for maximum flavor.
2. Set Up the Smoker
- Preheat your smoker to 225-250°F (110-120°C).
- Choose your wood chips wisely – hickory adds a robust flavor, while applewood offers a sweeter, milder smoke.
- Place the wood chips in the smoker and position the ham fat-side up on the rack.
- Close the smoker lid and let the magic happen. Smoke the ham for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
3. Glaze the Ham
- In the final 30 minutes of smoking, prepare the glaze. Combine:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- Brush the glaze liberally over the ham, coating it entirely. This will create a glossy, caramelized crust that seals in moisture and enhances the smoky flavor.
4. Rest and Slice
- Once the ham is done, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This step is crucial to lock in the juices.
- Slice the ham thinly and serve it warm or at room temperature.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Smoked Ham
1. Add Extra Flavor
- Inject the ham with a marinade of pineapple juice and honey before smoking for added depth.
- Baste the ham periodically with BBQ sauce or the reserved pineapple mixture for a moist, flavorful finish.
2. Alternative Cooking Methods
- If you don’t have a smoker, cook the ham in a slow cooker or oven at 325°F. While it won’t have the smoky flavor, it will still taste amazing.
3. Make It Versatile
- Use leftovers to create delicious dishes like ham sandwiches, breakfast skillets, or hearty soups.
FAQs About Smoked Honey Glazed Ham
Q: Can I use a boneless ham for this recipe?
A: Yes, but bone-in ham retains more moisture and flavor, making it the preferred choice.
Q: How do I store leftover ham?
A: Wrap leftovers tightly in foil or an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.
Q: Can I make the glaze spicier?
A: Absolutely! Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the glaze for a kick of heat.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your smoked honey-glazed ham with these sides:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Garlic butter green beans
- Classic cornbread
- Freshly baked dinner rolls
This Best Smoked Honey Glazed Ham recipe is a guaranteed showstopper. Whether it’s for a festive holiday dinner or a casual weekend feast, this dish delivers on flavor, texture, and presentation. With a little patience and the right ingredients, you’ll create a masterpiece that everyone will remember.
Don’t forget to save this recipe and share it with your friends. Happy smoking!
