Irresistible Instant Pot Holiday Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze

The aroma of a perfectly cooked ham wafts through the air, mingling with the sweet scent of brown sugar glaze, making your mouth water in anticipation. Instant Pot Holiday Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze is not just a dish; it’s an experience that transforms gatherings into joyous feasts filled with laughter and warmth.

Imagine slicing into this succulent ham, its tender meat glistening under a glossy layer of caramelized glaze. It’s the star of every holiday table, effortlessly stealing the show from those fancy side dishes that always seem to get a bit too much attention. Whether it’s Christmas or Thanksgiving, this ham becomes the centerpiece around which memories are made and stories are shared.

Ingredients for Instant Pot Holiday Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Bone-In Ham: A 5-8 pound bone-in ham is ideal for flavor and moisture retention during cooking.
• Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps create that beautiful caramelized glaze; light or dark will work.
• Honey: Honey amplifies the sweetness while providing a rich depth of flavor; choose pure honey for best results.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a zesty kick that balances the sweetness of the glaze; feel free to use whole grain if you prefer texture.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: This acidity cuts through the richness of the ham while enhancing the overall flavor profile.

For the Spice Blend:

• Cinnamon: A pinch brings warmth and holiday spirit to your glaze without overpowering it.
• Cloves: Ground cloves offer an aromatic touch that resonates beautifully in holiday recipes.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Instant Pot Holiday Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and ensure they are ready before you start cooking. Cut any twine or packaging off the ham; you want this beauty naked and ready for its spa treatment!

Step 2: Mix Your Glaze

In a bowl, combine brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and ground cloves until well blended. Take a moment to appreciate how good this mixture smells—it’s like Christmas in a bowl!

Step 3: Score the Ham

With a sharp knife, lightly score the surface of your ham in a diamond pattern. This not only looks fancy but allows that glorious glaze to seep into every nook and cranny.

Step 4: Set Up Your Instant Pot

Place one cup of water at the bottom of your Instant Pot. Use the rack that comes with it—this keeps your ham elevated so it cooks evenly without boiling away all its juicy goodness.

Step 5: Add Your Ham

Carefully place your scored ham on top of the rack inside your Instant Pot. Pour half of your prepared glaze over it like you’re giving it a luxurious massage—don’t skimp!

Step 6: Cook Away

Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for about 15 minutes per pound (for an average-sized ham that’s about an hour). Once done, allow natural pressure release for about ten minutes before quick releasing any remaining steam.

After cooking, pour any remaining glaze over the ham as you transfer it to a serving platter. If you’re feeling extra fancy (or just hungry), pop it under a broiler briefly for more caramelization.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Serve alongside festive sides like roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes topped with gravy—and watch everyone fight over seconds!

This delightful Instant Pot Holiday Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze is sure to become your go-to recipe for any holiday gathering or family feast!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

First, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern to let that glorious glaze seep in. Next, mix your brown sugar, mustard, and pineapple juice; slather it on generously. Place your ham in the Instant Pot, add some broth for moisture, and let it work its magic.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients! Try using honey instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness or add cloves for extra warmth. Got leftover cranberry sauce? Spread that on your ham before cooking for a tangy twist that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, slice the ham and warm it gently in the microwave or oven. Add a splash of broth to keep it moist and delicious!

Sharing this recipe always brings back memories of my cousin’s wedding when I made this Instant Pot Holiday Ham. Everyone couldn’t stop raving about it; even Grandma asked for seconds! It truly warmed my heart to see everyone enjoying my dish together.

FAQs:

What is the best way to prepare Instant Pot Holiday Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze?

For the best results with your Instant Pot Holiday Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze, start by scoring the surface of the ham. This step helps the glaze penetrate better during cooking. Combine brown sugar, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard for a flavorful glaze. Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode to caramelize the glaze slightly before adding the ham. Then, use the pressure cooking function for even cooking. Remember to let it rest before slicing for maximum juiciness.

How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Holiday Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze?

Cooking time for Instant Pot Holiday Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze typically ranges from 20 to 30 minutes per pound. The total cook time will depend on the weight of your ham. For example, a 5-pound ham will generally require about 25-30 minutes under high pressure in the Instant Pot. Always ensure you allow for natural pressure release after cooking to keep the meat tender and juicy.

Can I use a different type of glaze for my ham?

Absolutely! While this recipe highlights a brown sugar glaze, you can customize it based on your preferences. Consider using honey, pineapple juice, or even maple syrup as alternatives. You can also add spices like cloves or ginger for an extra kick. Experimenting with different flavors can make your Instant Pot Holiday Ham truly unique.

How do I store leftovers from Instant Pot Holiday Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze?

To store leftovers of your Instant Pot Holiday Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze, first allow it to cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. Stored properly in the refrigerator, it should last up to five days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags for up to three months.

Conclusion for Instant Pot Holiday Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze:

In summary, preparing an Instant Pot Holiday Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze is a simple yet rewarding process that brings festive flavors to your table. The combination of sweet and savory elements in the glaze enhances the ham’s natural taste while keeping it moist and tender. With easy preparation steps and customizable options, this dish is perfect for any holiday gathering or family meal. Enjoy every bite of this delectable centerpiece that will surely impress your guests!

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Instant Pot Holiday Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze

• Author: Lilly
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
• Category: Main
• Method: Pressure Cooking
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Indulge in the festive delight of this Instant Pot Holiday Ham, featuring a luscious brown sugar glaze that will become the highlight of your holiday gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 5–8 pounds bone-in ham
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves

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Instructions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Remove any packaging from the ham and ensure all ingredients are ready.
2. Mix Your Glaze: In a bowl, combine brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and ground cloves until well blended.
3. Score the Ham: Lightly score the surface of your ham in a diamond pattern to allow the glaze to seep in.
4. Set Up Your Instant Pot: Pour one cup of water into the bottom of your Instant Pot and place the rack inside.
5. Add Your Ham: Place the scored ham on the rack and pour half of your prepared glaze over it.
6. Cook Away: Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set to cook on high pressure for about 15 minutes per pound (approximately one hour for an average-sized ham). Allow for natural pressure release for about ten minutes before quick releasing any remaining steam.
7. Finish & Serve: Pour any remaining glaze over the ham when transferring it to a serving platter. For extra caramelization, broil briefly before serving.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 oz (85g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: - Feel free to customize your glaze by adding spices or substituting honey for brown sugar. - Leftover cranberry sauce can add a tangy twist if spread on the ham before cooking. - Allowing your ham to rest after cooking helps retain juices for maximum flavor and tenderness.