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Ginger Ale Ham Glaze
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Sure, you could just slather your ham with some store-bought glaze and call it a day. But where's the fun in that? This recipe for ginger ale ham glaze is so much tastier, not to mention easy to make.
serves/makes:
ready in:
1-2 hrs
1-2 hrs
7 reviews
ingredients
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1 1/4 cup ginger ale
directions
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.
Combine the brown sugar and 1/4 cup of the ginger ale in a small bowl. Set aside.
Place the ham in a baking pan. Pour the remaining ginger ale evenly over the ham and place the ham in the oven. Bake, uncovered, at 325 degrees F for 15 minutes per pound. Baste the ham occasionally with the ginger ale and juices in the bottom of the pan.
During the final 30 minutes of cook time, brush the brown sugar mixture evenly over the ham. Continue baking until done. Remove the ham from the oven and let stand for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
cook's notes
Actual cook time will vary by the type and size of ham used.
recipe tips
For a more complex flavor, consider adding a splash of bourbon or whiskey to the glaze mixture.
Score the surface of the ham before basting to allow the glaze to penetrate more deeply into the meat.
If you're using a pre-cooked ham, make sure to read the package instructions as the cooking times may vary.
Placing cloves at the intersections of the scores before glazing can add a decorative touch and infuse the ham with additional flavor.
To prevent the ham from drying out, cover it loosely with foil during the initial stages of baking, removing the foil when you apply the glaze.
Allowing the ham to stand for 15 minutes before slicing helps retain its juices, making it more flavorful and moist.
Use a meat thermometer to make sure the ham reaches the appropriate internal temperature, which is typically 140 degrees F for a fully cooked ham before glazing.
Try different brands or styles of ginger ale to find your preferred balance of sweetness and spice for the glaze.
common recipe questions
What type of ham should I use in this recipe?
You can pretty much use any cut of ham, bone-in or boneless. Just make sure that it reaches 140 degrees F when cooked (or heated, in the case of fully-cooked hams)
How big a ham should I use?
The basic glaze recipe will cover up to a 5-6 pound ham (approximately - it depends on how thick you spread the glaze on the ham). Plan on 3/4 to 1 pound per person for a bone-in ham or 1/2 pound for boneless.
Can I add spices to the ginger ale glaze for more flavor?
Yes, you can enhance the ginger ale glaze by adding spices such as ground cloves, cinnamon, or nutmeg. A teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a splash of orange juice can also add depth to the flavor. Mix these in with the brown sugar and ginger ale mixture before applying it to the ham.
How can I make the glaze thicker?
To make the glaze thicker, simmer the brown sugar and ginger ale mixture in a small saucepan over medium heat until it reduces and thickens to the desired consistency. Stir frequently to prevent burning. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
Is it possible to use diet ginger ale for this recipe?
While you can use diet ginger ale, the glaze may not caramelize as well due to the absence of sugar in diet sodas. Regular ginger ale contributes to the glaze's flavor and helps create a sticky, caramelized surface on the ham. Some diet sodas will impart a bitter flavor when heated so you may want to test a small batch first.
Can this glaze be used on other meats?
This ginger ale glaze can also be delicious on roasted chicken, pork loin, or even salmon, adding a sweet and slightly tangy flavor to the meat.
Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ginger ale and brown sugar mixture ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you're ready to use it. If it has thickened too much upon refrigeration, gently reheat it on the stove or in the microwave to loosen it before applying to the ham.
What's the best way to baste the ham?
For basting the ham, use a basting brush or a spoon to evenly distribute the ginger ale and juices over the ham. Doing so every 20 to 30 minutes during baking will help keep the ham moist and flavorful.
tools needed
Baking Pan: To hold the ham while it cooks in the oven. It should be large enough to accommodate the ham and any liquids that accumulate during baking.
Measuring Cups: For measuring the brown sugar and ginger ale.
Mixing Bowl: A small bowl to combine the brown sugar and ginger ale before applying it to the ham.
Basting Brush: To evenly apply the brown sugar mixture over the ham.
nutrition data
13 calories, 0 grams fat, 3 grams carbohydrates, 0 grams protein per tablespoon. This recipe is low in sodium. This recipe is low in fat.
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reviews & comments
December 31, 2019
Tried it came out great, just added Pineapple Tibits!
October 28, 2018
You can also add a little bit of cherry juice, and cherries this is how my grandmother used to make it very delicous!!
December 27, 2014
My ham was pre-cooked. I partially sliced the ham and put pineapple slices in-between as well and poured in some of the pineapple juice. I used diet ginger ale and splenda brown sugar to cut back on the calories.
November 21, 2012
made it last thanksgiving and going to make it again this year.
September 27, 2010
Just tried this tonight...it tasted great!!! Perfect because I needed a dairy free glaze for someone that was lactose intolerant!
November 16, 2009
Came out Great... just added Pineapple slices!
October 12, 2009
This was light and delicous I mixed it with the cabbage.