Cranberry Orange Glazed Ham

Name: Cranberry Orange Glazed Ham
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (8-10 lb) bone-in ham; 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice; 1 cup packed brown sugar; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; 6 whole cloves

Published: August 15, 2025

by Lionel Ramon

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Cranberry Orange Glazed Ham is easy to prepare, even for novice cooks
The balance of sweet cranberry and zesty orange creates an irresistible flavor explosion
Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any dining table
Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or any special occasion needing a touch of elegance

I remember the first time I made this ham; my family was so impressed that they asked for seconds…and thirds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: delicious garlic bread pizza.

Bone-in Ham: Choose a high-quality ham for the best flavor; bone-in hams tend to be juicier.
Fresh Cranberries: Look for firm cranberries; they should be bright red for maximum flavor and color.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice adds brightness; avoid store-bought juice if possible.
Brown Sugar: Use packed brown sugar to create that beautiful caramelization on the ham’s surface.
Cinnamon: A dash of cinnamon complements the sweetness perfectly; use freshly ground for better taste.
Cloves: Whole cloves can add an aromatic depth; simply stud them into the ham before baking.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This ensures even cooking as you prepare your ham masterpiece.

Prepare Your Ham: Score the surface of your ham in a diamond pattern with a sharp knife. This allows the glaze to seep in and form that coveted crispy exterior.

Create Your Glaze: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine fresh cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cloves. savory pumpkin gnocchi dish Stir until cranberries burst and release their juices creating a luscious glaze.

Apply The Glaze: Brush half of the cranberry-orange mixture all over the scored ham. Don’t skimp here! Get every nook and cranny coated in sweet goodness.

Bake And Baste: Place your ham in the oven and bake for about 1 hour. Remember to baste every 20 minutes with remaining glaze to keep it moist and flavorful.

Rest Before Serving: Once cooked through (internal temperature should reach 140°F or 60°C), let your ham rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This will help retain its juiciness when you serve it up.

Now go ahead and impress your guests with this delightful Cranberry Orange Glazed Ham!

You Must Know

This cranberry orange glazed ham is a festive showstopper that pairs sweet and tangy flavors for a delightful holiday feast
The glaze caramelizes beautifully, creating an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen and delights your guests
Perfect for celebrations, it’s easy to prepare and absolutely delicious!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing the glaze while the ham warms up in the oven. This way, you can baste it frequently to achieve that glossy finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out orange juice for pineapple juice for a tropical twist. sweet apple dessert pairing Add spices like cinnamon or cloves for extra warmth and flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven without losing moisture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve a perfectly glazed ham, make sure to baste every 20 minutes
Use a meat thermometer to check if it’s cooked through at 145°F
Leftovers are great for sandwiches or soups, so don’t be shy about making extra!

Creating this cranberry orange glazed ham always reminds me of last Thanksgiving when my cousin declared it was “life-changing.” I knew I had hit the jackpot in flavor!

FAQ

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! This glaze works well with turkey or pork tenderloin too, offering diverse options.

How do I know when the ham is done?

Use a meat thermometer; it should read 145°F for perfectly cooked ham every time.

Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?

Yes! Make the glaze a day before and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

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📖 Recipe Card