First Step: Prepare the Glaze: Start by melting 1/4 cup unsalted butter in a large saucepan over medium heat this is the foundation of your honey glazed ham’s amazing sauce. Once it’s melted, whisk in 1 cup packed brown sugar, 1/2 cup honey, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 1/4 cup pineapple juice, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon paprika until everything’s fully mixed. Cook this for 5-7 minutes until it bubbles and thickens up, then take it off the heat to let it cool a bit. This step ensures your glaze is rich and ready to stick to the ham perfectly.

Second Step: Preheat and Prep the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F to get things warmed up for baking. Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with foil and give it a good coat of cooking spray to prevent any sticking this makes cleanup a breeze. Place your 8-10 pound ham cut side down in the pan and score the top with shallow cuts; this helps the glaze seep in and flavor every bite of your honey glazed ham.

Third Step: Apply the First Layer of Glaze and Bake: Brush about one-third of your prepared glaze all over the ham, making sure to cover it evenly for that sweet, sticky goodness. Pop it in the oven and bake for 1.5 hours at 350 degrees F this initial bake warms the ham through and starts locking in those flavors. If you’re adapting for dietary needs, like using a low-sugar glaze, this is a great point to make swaps without messing up the timing.

Fourth Step: Add More Glaze and Increase Heat: Once the first bake is done, crank the oven up to 425 degrees F for a nice caramelization. Brush half of the remaining glaze on the ham and bake for another 15 minutes; this step really amps up the honey ham’s sweetness and gives it that golden finish. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning, especially if you’re trying variations like adding more spices for a bolder taste.

Fifth Step: Final Glaze and Broil: Now, slather on the rest of the glaze and switch to broil for 3-5 minutes to make everything extra sticky and delicious. This quick finish adds a beautiful sheen to your glazed ham, but be careful not to overdo it. Let the ham rest for 10 minutes before slicing; this helps the juices settle and makes serving easier for everyone at the table.

Sixth Step: Slow Cooker Option: If you’re opting for the slow cooker, coat the inside of a 6- or 7-quart cooker with cooking spray first. Place the ham inside, pour the glaze over it, cover, and cook on low for about 8 hours baste every hour and flip halfway if you can for even coating. This method is perfect for busy days, ensuring your honey glazed ham is tender and flavorful without much hands-on time.