Cherry Bourbon Ham Recipe | Christmas Glazed Ham | Universal Kitchen

Cherry Bourbon Ham Recipe | Christmas Glazed Ham |                                        Universal Kitchen

Cherry Bourbon Ham is one of the most luxurious and eye-catching festive dishes. The natural saltiness of ham pairs perfectly with the sweet, glossy cherry glaze, while bourbon adds warmth and richness without overpowering the taste. As the ham bakes, the glaze caramelizes, creating a shiny coating that makes every slice flavorful, juicy, and tender. This dish is often served at Christmas dinner tables across the world for its simplicity, elegance, and holiday flavor.

⭐ Ingredients

For the Ham:

• 1 fully cooked ham (1.5–2.5 kg)

• Whole cloves (optional for decoration)

For the Cherry Bourbon Glaze:

• 1 cup cherry jam or cherry preserves

• ½ cup bourbon

• ½ cup brown sugar

• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup

• 1 tbsp mustard (Dijon or yellow)

• 1 tbsp butter

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• ½ tsp ginger powder

• Pinch of salt

How to Make Cherry Bourbon Ham                                (Descriptive Steps)

Step 1: Prepare the Ham

1. Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F).

2. Place the ham on a baking tray lined with foil.

3. Using a sharp knife, score the fat layer in a diamond pattern.

4. Optional: Insert a clove into each diamond for aroma and decoration.

Step 2: Make the Cherry Bourbon Glaze

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, add:

   • cherry jam

   • bourbon

   • brown sugar

   • honey

   • mustard

   • butter

   • cinnamon & ginger

2. Stir continuously until the mixture melts and becomes a thick, shiny glaze.

3. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.

4. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until glossy.

Step 3: Glaze & Bake

1. Brush a generous layer of the glaze over the ham.

2. Cover loosely with foil.

3. Bake for 45–60 minutes, brushing extra glaze every 15 minutes.

4. Remove foil in the last 10 minutes to caramelize the top.

Step 4: Slice & Serve

1. Allow the ham to rest for 10 minutes.

2. Slice into thick or thin pieces depending on preference.

3. Serve warm with extra glaze on the side.

💡 Tips for Perfect Cherry Bourbon Ham

• If you prefer non-alcoholic, replace bourbon with apple juice or cherry juice.

• For deeper flavor, marinate the ham in glaze for 2 hours before cooking.

• Leftovers taste amazing in sandwiches or with mashed potatoes.

• Use dark cherry jam for the best color and shine.

ENJOY...