Spicy Orange Honey Baked Ham Recipe

Name: Spicy Orange Honey Baked Ham
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8-10 lbs bone-in ham (fully cooked); 1 cup pure honey; 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice; 1/2 cup spicy mustard; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper; 1 cup brown sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Published: December 1, 2025

by mahdibrs

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The sweet and spicy glaze transforms an ordinary ham into something extraordinary.
It’s simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy hosts.
The vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any table setting.
Ideal for holidays or casual gatherings—everyone will be asking for seconds.

Ingredients for Spicy Orange Honey Baked Ham

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Bone-In Ham: Choose a fully cooked bone-in ham for rich flavor and moisture; look for one around 8-10 pounds.
Honey: Opt for pure honey for sweetness that balances perfectly with the spice.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice will provide the best flavor—don’t skimp here!
Spicy Mustard: A good spicy mustard adds depth; choose one that packs a flavorful punch without overpowering.
Cayenne Pepper: Just a pinch adds warmth; adjust according to your spice tolerance.

For the Glaze:

Brown Sugar: Helps create that gorgeous caramelization on the outside of your ham.
Cinnamon: A dash brings warmth and complexity to the glaze; it’s like a hug in spice form.

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

How to Make Spicy Orange Honey Baked Ham

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). While you’re at it, grab your favorite roasting pan and line it with aluminum foil—trust me; you’ll thank yourself later when cleanup time rolls around.

Step 2: Prepare Your Ham

Place the ham cut-side down in the roasting pan. Using a sharp knife, score shallow diamond shapes across the surface of the ham—this isn’t just for looks; it helps those flavors soak in!

Step 3: Make Your Glaze

In a bowl, mix together honey, orange juice, spicy mustard, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined. It should smell so good that you might be tempted to dip your finger in—go ahead; I won’t tell!

Step 4: Apply the Glaze

Using a brush (or your hands if you’re feeling adventurous), slather that glorious glaze all over your ham. Make sure to get into those nooks and crannies—you want every bite to be bursting with flavor.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the ham loosely with foil (this helps keep things juicy) and bake in your preheated oven for about 1 hour and then uncover it. Increase heat slightly and allow it to bake another hour or until heated through and caramelized.

Step 6: Serve

Once out of the oven, let it rest for about ten minutes before slicing. Arrange those beautiful slices on plates or platters—and don’t forget to drizzle some leftover glaze over them for that extra touch!

Serve this masterpiece alongside festive sides like roasted veggies or buttery mashed potatoes for an unforgettable meal experience!

You Must Know

This Spicy Orange Honey Baked Ham is not just a dish; it’s a festive centerpiece that will have your guests drooling.
The sweet and spicy glaze is a showstopper, making your holiday or family gathering unforgettable.
Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. Score the ham in a diamond pattern, then slather on the spicy orange honey glaze. Bake for about 1 hour and baste every 20 minutes for maximum flavor. The result? A perfectly caramelized ham that’s juicy and full of flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite spices or even incorporating some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick. If you prefer less sweetness, swap out the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar. Get creative with your garnish too!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, slice and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, ensuring it stays moist and delicious.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For that perfect glaze, apply it generously but don’t forget to reserve some for later basting.
Letting the ham rest after baking keeps it juicy and tender.
Always use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches at least 140°F before serving.

I remember the first time I made this Spicy Orange Honey Baked Ham for a family gathering. My uncle said it was so good he might just propose to it! That moment of laughter and joy reinforced my love for cooking and sharing good food with loved ones.

FAQs:

What makes Spicy Orange Honey Baked Ham unique?

Spicy Orange Honey Baked Ham stands out because it combines the sweetness of honey with the tanginess of orange and a kick of spices. This balance creates a flavor profile that’s both exciting and comforting. The glaze caramelizes beautifully during baking, adding a rich color and taste to the ham. This dish not only enhances holiday meals but also serves as an impressive centerpiece for any gathering.

How long should I bake Spicy Orange Honey Baked Ham?

For optimal results, bake your Spicy Orange Honey Baked Ham at 325°F (163°C). A general guideline is to heat it for about 15-18 minutes per pound. For example, a 10-pound ham should take around 2.5 to 3 hours to reach the ideal internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Make sure to baste the ham periodically with the glaze, which helps keep it moist and flavorful.

Can I prepare Spicy Orange Honey Baked Ham in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare your Spicy Orange Honey Baked Ham a day ahead of time. Simply glaze it and refrigerate overnight. On the day you plan to serve it, just pop it in the oven as directed. This advance preparation allows flavors to meld beautifully and reduces stress on serving day, ensuring you enjoy more time with your guests.

What sides pair well with Spicy Orange Honey Baked Ham?

To complement your Spicy Orange Honey Baked Ham, consider serving classic sides like roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. Additionally, cornbread or sweet potato casserole can enhance the meal’s overall flavor profile. These sides provide balance and texture, creating a delightful dining experience that highlights the ham’s unique taste.

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Conclusion for Spicy Orange Honey Baked Ham:

Spicy Orange Honey Baked Ham is a deliciously unique dish that balances sweet and spicy flavors perfectly. With its beautiful glaze and tender meat, this recipe shines as a festive centerpiece or a special Sunday dinner option. Remember to adjust cooking time based on weight for best results, and don’t hesitate to prepare it ahead of time for convenience. Enjoying this dish will surely impress family and friends alike!

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📖 Recipe Card