This Copycat Honey Baked Ham brings that irresistible blend of sweet and savory right to your table, with a simple honey butter glaze and warm spices that caramelize perfectly. It’s surprisingly easy to make but still impressive enough for any gathering, holiday, or cozy family meal. The juicy, tender slices with their caramelized crust are always a hit, loved by kids and adults alike. And the best part? While it’s baking, you’re free to relax and enjoy time with those who matter most.
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a small bowl, melt the butter, then whisk in the honey and Dijon mustard until combined. Place the ham in a large baking dish and coat it with the honey butter mixture.
½ cup honey, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 10 pounds spiral sliced ham
In a separate bowl, combine the onion powder, paprika, pumpkin spice, white sugar, and brown sugar. Using your hands, coat the outside of the ham with about half of the sugar mixture. Cover the ham with foil and bake for approximately 2 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F.
1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 ½ teaspoons pumpkin spice, ¾ cup white sugar, ¾ cup brown sugar
Remove the ham from the oven and coat it with the remaining sugar mixture. Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) and place the ham back in the oven for 10-15 minutes until the sugar caramelizes slightly.
Slice and serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Choose a Spiral-Sliced Ham: Pre-sliced ham lets the glaze soak into every bite, so you get flavor in every slice.
Room Temperature First: Letting the ham sit out for 30 minutes before baking helps it cook evenly. This simple step helps avoid cold spots and keeps the ham juicy.
Foil for Extra Moisture: Covering with foil during baking keeps the ham juicy and packed with flavor.
Keep an Eye on Caramelization: Keep a close eye on the ham during the last few minutes to prevent the sugar glaze from burning. A caramelized crust is what you’re aiming for—rich and golden, not overly dark.
Cinnamon for Extra Warmth: A pinch of cinnamon in the sugar mix adds a cozy hint to the glaze.
Check with a Thermometer: Aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C) before caramelizing to ensure it’s perfectly heated through.