There’s something irresistibly nostalgic about the sweet aroma of a glazed ham baking in the oven, but adding a vibrant cherry sauce takes this classic centerpiece to an entirely new level. I stumbled upon this recipe while looking for a way to brighten up holiday meals without spending hours in the kitchen—and let me tell you, the balance between the savory ham and the tart cherry glaze is downright unforgettable. Whether you’re entertaining a crowd or craving a comforting homemade dinner, this glazed ham with cherry sauce delivers both elegance and ease. It’s the kind of dish that invites compliments and seconds, yet doesn’t keep you tied to the stove all day. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want to keep it in your regular rotation, especially when you want to impress without stress.
Why choose Glazed Ham with Cherry Sauce?
Irresistible Flavor Contrast: The sweet and tangy cherry sauce perfectly complements the savory, juicy ham, creating a mouthwatering harmony. Effortless Elegance: Impress guests with a show-stopping centerpiece that’s easy to prepare. Time-Saving: Minimal hands-on time means more moments to enjoy your company. Versatile Serving: Ideal for holidays, family dinners, or special occasions, pleasing all tastes. Comfort Food Upgrade: Classic home-cooked goodness with a vibrant twist you’ll crave again and again.
Glazed Ham with Cherry Sauce Ingredients
For the Glazed Ham
- Bone-in ham – Choose a fully cooked ham for easy prep and juicy results.
- Brown sugar – Adds deep caramel sweetness that caramelizes beautifully on the ham.
- Dijon mustard – Gives a subtle tang that balances the glaze’s sweetness.
- Honey – Enhances the glaze with smooth, natural sweetness and a glossy finish.
- Cloves – Whole cloves studded into the ham add warm, aromatic spice notes.
For the Cherry Sauce
- Fresh or frozen cherries – Provides the vibrant, tart base essential for glistening cherry sauce.
- Cherry juice or red wine – Adds depth and a silky texture to the sauce.
- Sugar – Balances the natural tartness of cherries for a perfectly sweet-tart sauce.
- Lemon juice – Brightens the cherry flavor and lifts the overall taste.
- Cornstarch – Used to thicken the cherry sauce to just the right consistency you’ll love.
How to Make Glazed Ham with Cherry Sauce
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F, ensuring even heat for a tender, juicy ham that soaks up every drop of the sweet, aromatic glaze during baking.
- Score ham: Score the surface of the ham in a one-inch diamond pattern, then insert whole cloves at each intersection to infuse warm spice notes and help the glaze adhere beautifully.
- Mix glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth and glossy, creating a rich, caramelized mixture that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors.
- Brush glaze: Place the ham on a rack set over a roasting pan, then brush generously with the prepared glaze, reserving a few tablespoons for basting midway through baking.
- Bake ham: Bake the ham at 325°F for 1¾–2 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the reserved glaze until the exterior is golden, sticky, and irresistibly fragrant.
For the Cherry Sauce:
- Combine cherries: In a medium saucepan, combine cherries with cherry juice (or red wine) and sugar, stirring to coat fruit evenly before heating to release natural juices.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, cooking for about 10 minutes until the cherries are tender and the sauce deepens to a rich ruby hue.
- Thicken: Stir a cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce, cooking for 2–3 minutes until thickened to a silky consistency that gracefully coats the back of a spoon.
- Brighten: Off the heat, stir in fresh lemon juice to brighten the cherry sauce, balancing sweetness with a pop of citrusy zest that lifts the overall flavor.
Optional: Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Glazed Ham with Cherry Sauce are perfect for meal prep and can save you precious time during busy holidays or weeknight dinners! You can prepare the cherry sauce up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain its vibrant color and flavor, be sure to add the lemon juice just before serving. For the ham, you can score it, stud with cloves, and brush on the glaze up to 24 hours ahead—just cover it loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, allow the ham to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven. This way, you’ll achieve that delicious, juicy roast with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Glazed Ham with Cherry Sauce?
When planning a delightful meal to accompany your gorgeous glazed ham, consider these delicious pairings that bring out the flavors of your main dish.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These tender sprouts add a delightful crunch and earthy flavor that balances the sweetness of the cherry sauce beautifully.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these mashed potatoes soak up the luscious glaze and cherry sauce, creating a heavenly comfort food experience.
For something lighter,
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Mixed Green Salad: Crisp greens with a tangy vinaigrette offer freshness and a vibrant contrast to the rich ham, ensuring a well-rounded meal.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, these carrots enhance the dish’s sweet profiles while providing a lovely splash of color on your plate.
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Buttery Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet, cornbread makes a delightful addition, perfect for sopping up the sauce and complementing the ham’s flavors.
For dessert,
- Apple Pie: Nothing beats the classic combo of sweet, warm apple pie to finish off your meal, echoing the comforting notes in your glaze.
How to Store and Freeze Glazed Ham with Cherry Sauce
Fridge: Store leftover glazed ham in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the cherry sauce separate to maintain texture and flavor.
Freezer: You can freeze glazed ham for up to 2 months. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, or place in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Thaw frozen ham in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F until warmed through, basting with cherry sauce for extra flavor.
Cherry Sauce Storage: Store leftover cherry sauce in the fridge for up to 1 week. Reheat on low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed and smooth.
Expert Tips for Glazed Ham with Cherry Sauce
- Choose the Right Ham: Use a fully cooked, bone-in ham for optimal juiciness and ease. Avoid uncooked hams to prevent overcooking and dryness.
- Score and Stud: Carefully score the ham surface in diamond shapes and insert whole cloves to infuse warmth and help the glaze adhere beautifully.
- Glaze Timing: Apply most glaze before baking but reserve some for basting every 30 minutes to build a sticky, caramelized crust without burning.
- Cherry Sauce Consistency: Stir cornstarch slurry slowly into simmering sauce; too much thickener can make it gummy, too little leaves it runny.
- Balance Flavors: Add lemon juice off the heat to truly brighten the cherry sauce’s sweet and tart notes, enhancing the overall taste.
- Rest Before Carving: Let the ham rest 10–15 minutes after baking to lock in juices and ensure every slice is tender and flavorful.
Variations & Substitutions for Glazed Ham with Cherry Sauce
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and swaps to make this recipe your own, ensuring every bite is tailored to your taste buds!
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Brown Sugar Swap: Use maple syrup for a uniquely rich, deep flavor that pairs beautifully with the ham’s savory notes. It adds a subtle twist to the familiar sweetness.
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Cherry Alternatives: Try using apricots or peaches for the sauce instead of cherries; their sweetness will create a refreshing, fruity alternative that’s equally delicious.
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Mustard Variation: Switch out Dijon for spicy brown mustard to add an extra bite to your glaze, giving it a delightful kick that contrasts with the sweet cherries.
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Heat Factor: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the cherry sauce for a subtle heat that turns up the flavor profile without overpowering the dish.
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Citrus Boost: Incorporate orange juice into the cherry sauce for a zesty brightness, enhancing its flavors with a tropical flair that sings summer.
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Sugar Free: Use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit to keep the glaze sweet while cutting down on the calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
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Vegan Option: Replace the ham with a well-seasoned roasted portobello mushroom cap, maintaining the festive feel while catering to plant-based diets.
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Tropical Twist: Infuse the cherry sauce with coconut milk for a creamy texture and a tropical vibe that transports you away from the ordinary.
These twists not only personalize your glazed ham with cherry sauce but also ensure that your culinary creativity shines through!
Glazed Ham with Cherry Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ham for this glazed ham with cherry sauce?
I recommend using a fully cooked, bone-in ham for the best juiciness and ease. Look for a ham with a nice pink color and a thick layer of fat, which helps keep it moist. Avoid uncooked hams unless you’re experienced, as they require different cooking times and can dry out easily.
Can I store leftover glazed ham and cherry sauce, and for how long?
Absolutely! Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and keep the cherry sauce separate to maintain its fresh flavor and texture. This way, your ham stays tender and your sauce remains vibrant.
Is it possible to freeze the glazed ham, and what’s the best way to do it?
Very much so! To freeze, slice the ham into portions, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe airtight container. Label it and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat in a 325°F oven, basting with cherry sauce to revive that glossy, flavorful finish.
What if my ham glaze starts to burn while baking?
That can happen if the oven temperature is too high or if the glaze is too sugary. To avoid this, bake at 325°F as directed, and baste only every 30 minutes rather than more frequently. If you notice dark spots forming, tent the ham loosely with foil to prevent burning while keeping it moist and tender.
Is the cherry sauce safe for pets or those with allergies?
The cherry sauce contains natural sugars and lemon juice, which aren’t recommended for pets, especially dogs, as cherries can be harmful. For allergy concerns, check for sensitivities to any ingredients like corn starch or citrus. Always serve a pet-safe substitute, and consult your vet for advice. For human allergies, substitutions like tapioca starch can replace cornstarch if needed.
The Best Juicy Glazed Ham with Cherry Sauce You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F.
- Score the surface of the ham in a one-inch diamond pattern, then insert whole cloves at each intersection.
- In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth.
- Place the ham on a rack set over a roasting pan and brush generously with the glaze, reserving a few tablespoons for basting.
- Bake the ham at 325°F for 1¾–2 hours, basting every 30 minutes.
- In a medium saucepan, combine cherries with cherry juice (or red wine) and sugar, stirring to coat fruit evenly.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes.
- Stir a cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce and cook for 2–3 minutes until thickened.
- Off the heat, stir in fresh lemon juice to brighten the cherry sauce.
