Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham Centerpiece

Name: Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham Centerpiece
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Yield: 8-10 servings
Ingredients: 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (6-8 lbs); 1 cup cherry preserves; 1/2 cup bourbon; 1/4 cup Dijon mustard; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Highlighted under: Festive Holiday Recipes

This Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham Centerpiece is the perfect showstopper for your holiday table, combining sweet and savory flavors in a beautifully caramelized glaze.

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2025-12-12T18:31:16.146Z

This Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful explosion of flavors. The sweet-tart cherry glaze, blended with a hint of bourbon, brings out the best in the ham, making it an unforgettable centerpiece for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A deliciously sweet and tangy glaze that complements the savory ham perfectly.
Elegant presentation that will impress your guests.
Perfect for holiday gatherings or special celebrations.

      

The Perfect Holiday Centerpiece

A Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham is not just a meal; it's a centerpiece that commands attention at any holiday gathering. The stunning presentation of a beautifully glazed ham, glistening with a rich cherry bourbon sauce, makes it a focal point on your dining table. Guests will be drawn to its aroma and vibrant hues, creating an inviting atmosphere that enhances your festive celebration.

This recipe is designed to impress without overwhelming the cook. With just a few simple steps, you can create a deliciously succulent ham that will leave your guests raving about their meal long after the last bite. Each slice reveals a juicy interior, complemented by the sweet and tangy glaze that elevates the ham to gourmet status.

Flavor Profile and Pairings

The combination of cherry preserves and bourbon in the glaze provides a delightful balance of sweetness and depth. The cherry adds a fruity brightness that contrasts beautifully with the savory flavor of the ham, while the bourbon lends a warm, slightly smoky undertone. Together, these flavors create a harmonious blend that enhances the overall dining experience.

To complement this dish, consider serving sides that mirror its rich flavors. Roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a tangy coleslaw can create a well-rounded meal. Pairing the ham with a light salad or a refreshing fruit compote can also balance the richness, ensuring that every bite is satisfying without being overwhelming.

Tips for the Best Results

To ensure your ham is perfectly cooked, invest in a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C) for fully cooked ham when reheating. This guarantees that the ham is warm and ready to serve without drying out. Additionally, let the ham rest after baking; this allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice tender and moist.

When scoring the ham, make sure to cut just through the surface without cutting too deeply into the meat. This helps the glaze penetrate while keeping the ham juicy. For added flavor, you can experiment with different spices or add a splash of orange juice or zest to the glaze for a citrusy twist.

Ingredients

For the Ham

1 fully cooked bone-in ham (6-8 lbs)
1 cup cherry preserves
1/2 cup bourbon
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Gather all the ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

Prepare the Ham

Place the ham in a roasting pan, cut side down. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern.

Make the Glaze

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherry preserves, bourbon, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed and heated through.

Glaze the Ham

Brush half of the glaze over the ham. Cover the ham loosely with foil.

Bake the Ham

Bake in the preheated oven for about 90 minutes, basting with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes. Remove the foil in the last 30 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize.

Serve

Once done, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham as the centerpiece of your meal!

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To maintain its moisture, wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before refrigerating. When ready to enjoy, slice off the desired amount and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

For longer storage, consider freezing leftover ham. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. Properly stored, the ham can remain in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

This Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside traditional holiday favorites such as scalloped potatoes, green bean casserole, or a honey-butter biscuit. Each of these dishes enhances the ham's flavor, creating a cohesive meal that guests will love.

For a lighter option, a simple arugula salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast. The peppery greens and tangy dressing will cut through the richness of the ham, offering a balanced dining experience that caters to different palates.

Celebration Ideas

This ham recipe is perfect for more than just holiday dinners; consider using it for other celebrations such as birthdays, anniversaries, or family reunions. Its impressive presentation and delicious flavor make it a suitable choice for any gathering where you want to impress your guests.

Pair your Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham with festive drinks like a classic bourbon cocktail or a refreshing cherry spritzer. The right beverage can enhance the flavors of the ham and create a delightful dining experience that your guests will remember fondly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of ham?

Yes, you can use a boneless ham or a different variety, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What can I serve with the ham?

This ham pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.