Sweet and Savory Easter Ham with Grilled Peaches

As the days lengthen and the vibrant colors of spring emerge, thoughts naturally turn to cherished traditions and festive meals. For many, Easter dinner is incomplete without a magnificent ham gracing the center of the table. This year, elevate your holiday feast with an extraordinary **Easter Ham with Grilled Peaches** recipe that promises a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and subtly spiced flavors. Forget the complicated preparations; this recipe focuses on simplicity and incredible taste, ensuring a stress-free cooking experience and a show-stopping dish that will impress every guest.

Imagine a perfectly cooked, succulent ham, its rich flavor enhanced by a luscious, homemade peach glaze. This isn’t just any glaze; it’s a vibrant, fruity concoction featuring ripe peaches, warm brown sugar, and a hint of exotic spices like ground ginger and cloves. The final touch? Beautifully grilled peach halves served alongside, adding a fresh, caramelized sweetness and a stunning visual appeal that’s perfect for springtime gatherings and beyond. Whether you’re hosting a grand Easter brunch or a casual summer barbecue, this ham recipe offers a light, simple, and utterly delicious experience.

Contents

Why This Peach Glazed Ham Recipe Is a Must-Try

This isn’t just another ham recipe; it’s a carefully crafted culinary experience designed for ease, flavor, and elegance. Here’s why this particular **glazed ham recipe** stands out as an absolute favorite for your holiday table and summer entertaining:

Effortless Elegance with a Two-Step Process: Despite its impressive appearance, this **Easter ham recipe** is surprisingly simple to prepare. It involves two primary cooking stages: a gentle, slow warming of the ham, followed by a quick caramelization under a high heat. This streamlined approach minimizes fuss without compromising on flavor, making it perfect for both seasoned cooks and beginners.
A Symphony of Flavors in Every Bite: The star of this dish, aside from the ham itself, is the exquisite peach glaze. Crafted from sweet peach jam, rich brown sugar, aromatic ground cloves, and zesty ground ginger, it creates a complex yet balanced flavor profile that beautifully complements the savory ham. The glaze provides a sticky, caramelized crust that locks in moisture and adds a burst of fruity sweetness.
Freshness and Presentation: Elevate your meal by grilling fresh peach halves to serve alongside the glazed ham. The grilling process intensifies their natural sweetness and adds a smoky depth, creating a vibrant, colorful, and refreshing contrast to the savory meat. This thoughtful addition transforms a simple meal into a gourmet delight, perfect for spring and summer dining.
Versatile for Any Season: While traditionally a centerpiece for Easter, the light, fruity notes of this **peach glazed ham** make it an ideal choice for summer entertaining. Imagine serving this at a garden party, a family reunion, or even a sophisticated barbecue. Its bright flavors are refreshing and pair wonderfully with a variety of seasonal sides.

Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Glazed Ham

Creating this delicious ham starts with selecting high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delightful dish to life:

Ham: Approximately 6-7 pounds, preferably labeled “ham with natural juices.” The quality of your ham significantly impacts the final result. Opting for a ham with natural juices ensures a moist and flavorful outcome, avoiding the watery texture found in hams with added water.
Peach Nectar or Juice: 1-2 cups. This is crucial for creating a moist, flavorful environment during the initial cooking phase, infusing the ham with a delicate peach essence from the inside out.
Peach Jam: 1 1/2 cups. The foundation of our sweet and sticky glaze. Choose a high-quality jam for the best flavor.
Light Brown Sugar: 3/4 cup. Adds depth and a rich, molasses-like sweetness that helps the glaze caramelize beautifully on the ham’s surface.
Grated Fresh Ginger: 1 1/2 teaspoons. Provides a warm, spicy kick that perfectly balances the sweetness of the peaches and adds an aromatic complexity to the glaze.
Ground Cloves: 1/2 teaspoon. A classic pairing with ham and fruit, ground cloves offer a warm, intensely aromatic note that deepens the overall flavor profile of the glaze.
Fresh Peaches: 5 whole peaches. Essential for grilling and serving alongside the ham, offering a fresh, sweet, and juicy counterpoint.

Mastering the Easter Ham with Grilled Peaches: A Step-by-Step Guide

Preparing this exquisite ham is a straightforward process that yields incredibly tender and flavorful results. Follow these detailed steps for a perfect **peach glazed ham** every time:

Step 1: Preparing Your Ham for Roasting

First, ensure your ham is at room temperature. This is a crucial step that allows the ham to cook more evenly. Remove it from the refrigerator at least 90 minutes before you plan to cook. While some hams come pre-scored, if yours doesn’t, gently score the surface of the ham in a criss-cross pattern using a sharp knife. Aim for cuts about 1/4 inch deep. This not only creates an attractive “diamond” pattern but also allows the delicious glaze to penetrate the meat more effectively and helps render a crispy skin.

Place your scored ham in an oven-safe roasting pan or a large, high-sided Dutch oven that is just slightly larger than the ham itself. This snug fit is important because it helps to create a steamy environment, preventing the ham from drying out. A cast iron pan works beautifully here, as it retains heat exceptionally well.

Pour the peach nectar or juice into the pan, ensuring it reaches about 1/2 inch up the sides of the ham. This liquid is key to keeping the ham incredibly moist and infusing it with a subtle fruity flavor as it slowly warms. If you don’t have enough peach juice, you can top it off with a bit of water.

Step 2: Slow Roasting the Ham

Preheat your oven to a low 275°F (135°C). This low-and-slow approach is vital for gently warming the ham without drying it out, resulting in a tender and juicy texture. Cover the roasting pan tightly with aluminum foil. This creates a steamy, flavorful environment inside the pan, ensuring the ham remains moist and delicious throughout the warming process. Roast the ham for approximately 15 minutes per pound, which usually amounts to about 1.5 to 2 hours for a 6-7 pound ham. The goal is for the internal temperature to reach 100°F (38°C).

Step 3: Crafting the Irresistible Peach Glaze

While your ham is slowly warming in the oven, take this time to prepare the star of the show: the peach glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the peach jam, light brown sugar, grated fresh ginger, and ground cloves. Heat this mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the glaze thickens to a sticky, syrupy consistency. Turn off the heat and set the glaze aside. Its vibrant aroma will fill your kitchen, promising a truly delicious outcome.

Step 4: Glazing and Caramelizing

Once the ham has finished its initial low-and-slow roast (it should look beautifully cooked and slightly browned), carefully remove it from the oven. At this point, increase your oven temperature to a higher 425°F (220°C). While the oven preheats, generously brush about a quarter of your prepared peach glaze all over the ham. Make sure to get it into those lovely scored grooves you created earlier, as this will help the glaze stick and caramelize evenly. If your pan juices have evaporated, add a splash more peach juice or water to reach about 1/4 inch at the bottom of the pan to prevent scorching.

Return the now-glazed ham to the hot oven, uncovered, and bake for another 15 minutes. During this time, the high heat will caramelize the glaze, forming a beautiful, deep golden-brown crust. The liquid in the pan should be bubbly, indicating that the flavors are intensifying. The internal temperature of the ham should now reach 120°F (49°C).

Step 5: Resting and Finishing the Glaze

Once perfectly caramelized, remove the ham from the oven and transfer it to a large cutting board. It’s essential to let the ham rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is tender and succulent.

While the ham rests, prepare the serving glaze. Return the remaining peach glaze to a medium-low heat on your stovetop. Carefully pour about 1/2 cup of the delicious pan juices from the roasting pan into the glaze. Whisk everything together until well combined. You can adjust the consistency by adding more pan juice for a thinner glaze or a little more peach jam for a thicker one, according to your preference. This creates a beautiful, deeply flavored sauce to accompany your carved ham.

Step 6: Carving and Serving

After resting, your ham is ready to be carved. If you have a bone-in ham, locate the bone in the center. Use a sharp carving knife to slice horizontally above the bone, then make vertical slices down to meet that horizontal cut, allowing you to remove beautiful, even slices of ham.

For the grilled peaches, simply slice your fresh peaches in half and remove the pit. Brush lightly with a neutral oil, then grill cut-side down for 3-5 minutes, or until grill marks appear and the peaches are slightly softened and caramelized. Serve the carved ham generously topped with the warm peach glaze, accompanied by the sweet and smoky grilled peach halves. This vibrant, flavorful dish is ready to be enjoyed!

Have a Happy Easter and enjoy this incredible meal!

Effortless Holiday Cooking: The Magic of Pre-Cooked Ham

Cooking a show-stopping holiday ham can seem intimidating at first glance – after all, it’s a sizable piece of meat! However, the truth is, it’s one of the easiest and most forgiving dishes to prepare. The main reason? Most hams available in stores are already fully cooked. Unless you’re venturing into the realm of country ham (which requires a completely different approach), your primary task is simply to warm it up slowly and evenly, allowing it to become incredibly tender and ready to absorb all the wonderful flavors of your chosen glaze.

This inherent ease makes ham an ideal centerpiece for any gathering, especially holidays like Easter, when you might have many other dishes to juggle. The simplicity of preparation allows you more time to spend with loved ones, rather than being tethered to the kitchen. The beauty of this recipe lies in its ability to transform a basic pre-cooked ham into a gourmet experience with minimal effort. Our sweet and fruity peach glaze, combined with the fresh, grilled peaches, provides a bright, simple, and utterly satisfying plate that feels special without being complicated.

The addition of grilled peaches is a game-changer. Grilling them caramelizes their natural sugars, making them incredibly sweet, warm, and wonderfully juicy. This provides a fresh, bright contrast to the rich, savory ham, balancing the entire dish beautifully. It’s this thoughtful combination that elevates the ham from a mere main course to a memorable culinary highlight.

Choosing the Best Ham for a Flavorful Feast

The secret to a truly delicious and moist glazed ham begins long before you even preheat your oven: it starts with selecting the right ham at the grocery store. Navigating the ham aisle can be a bit overwhelming with various labels, but here’s the most important tip to ensure a superior result:

Always check the label carefully and look for “Ham with Natural Juices.” This seemingly small detail makes a significant difference. Hams labeled “Ham with Natural Juices” typically contain less added water and fillers, meaning you’re buying a more concentrated, flavorful product. This translates to a richer taste and a more succulent texture, as the ham retains its inherent moisture throughout the cooking process.

Conversely, if you see labels like “Ham with Juices and Water” or “Water Added,” it’s best to steer clear. These hams often have a higher water content, which can lead to a less intense flavor and a more rubbery or diluted texture once cooked. While they might be slightly cheaper, the compromise in quality and taste is rarely worth it. For this **peach glazed ham** recipe, and indeed for any special occasion, investing in a ham with natural juices will yield a far more satisfying and memorable meal.

Additionally, consider the cut: bone-in hams tend to be more flavorful and juicy as the bone adds depth during cooking, though they require a bit more skill to carve. Boneless hams are easier to slice but can sometimes be drier. Spiral-cut hams are incredibly convenient for serving but can dry out quicker if not handled properly. For this recipe, a semi-boneless ham with natural juices offers a good balance of flavor, moisture, and ease of carving.

Top Tips for an Unforgettable Easter Ham Experience

Achieving the perfect **peach glazed ham** is simple with a few expert tips. These insights will help you ensure a moist, flavorful, and beautifully presented dish every time:

Bring Ham to Room Temperature: This is a golden rule for cooking large cuts of meat. Allow your ham to stand at room temperature for at least 90 minutes before placing it in the oven. This ensures more even cooking and helps prevent the outside from drying out while the inside warms up.
Prioritize “Ham with Natural Juices”: As discussed, the quality of your ham significantly impacts the outcome. Always choose a ham labeled “with natural juices” for superior flavor and moisture retention. Avoid hams with “water added” for the best results.
Embrace the Resting Period: Once your ham is out of the oven, resist the urge to carve immediately. Letting the ham rest for 15 minutes on a cutting board is crucial. This allows the internal juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is incredibly tender, juicy, and flavorful. Skipping this step can lead to dry ham.
Customize Your Glaze Consistency: The beauty of a homemade glaze is its flexibility. You can adjust the consistency of your peach glaze to perfectly suit your preference. For a thicker, more spoonable glaze, add a little extra peach jam. If you prefer a smoother, pourable sauce, whisk in more of the flavorful pan juices. Always taste and adjust seasonings to ensure the perfect balance of sweet and spicy.
Score for Flavor and Presentation: While optional, scoring the ham in a diamond pattern before roasting serves a dual purpose. It creates an attractive presentation and, more importantly, allows the glaze to seep into the meat, infusing every bite with delicious flavor and helping to create a beautifully caramelized crust.
Monitor Internal Temperature: While most hams are pre-cooked, using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the target internal temperature (100°F for initial warming, 120°F after glazing) guarantees it’s perfectly heated through without being overcooked and dry.

Explore More Delicious Ham Recipes

If you’ve loved this **Easter ham with grilled peaches**, you might be eager to explore other delightful ways to prepare this versatile protein. Ham is a fantastic canvas for a myriad of glazes and flavor profiles, making it a favorite for holidays and family meals throughout the year. Here are a few more ham recipes that promise to tantalize your taste buds and add variety to your culinary repertoire:

Easter Ham with Mango Ginger Glaze: For those who enjoy a tropical twist, this recipe swaps peaches for the exotic sweetness of mango, paired with the same vibrant kick of ginger. It’s a fantastic alternative that brings a sunny disposition to your table.
Cola-Pineapple Glazed Ham Recipe: A classic combination that’s beloved for a reason. The effervescence and sweetness of cola, combined with tangy pineapple, create a sticky, deeply flavorful glaze that’s both nostalgic and incredibly delicious.
Blackberry Rum Glazed Ham Recipe: For a more sophisticated and indulgent option, this glaze combines the rich, dark notes of blackberries with a hint of rum, offering a complex and aromatic experience that’s perfect for a grown-up gathering.

Each of these recipes offers a unique flavor journey, proving just how adaptable and exciting ham can be. Don’t hesitate to experiment and find your next favorite ham creation!

Have you tried this incredible **Easter Ham with Grilled Peaches** recipe? We’d love to hear about your experience! Feel free to leave a star rating and share your thoughts in the comments section below. Your feedback helps us and other home cooks discover new favorites!

Easter Ham Recipe with Grilled Peaches

This Easter Ham recipe is light, simple and so delicious! Perfectly cooked ham, covered in a sweet and fruity glaze, perfect for spring and Easter!

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Prep Time: 10 mins

Cook Time: 2 hrs 15 mins

Total Time: 2 hrs 25 mins

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Servings: 10 servings

Calories: 907 kcal

Ingredients

6-7 pound ham (preferably “ham with natural juices”)
1-2 cups peach nectar or juice
1 1/2 cups peach jam
3/4 cup light brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
5 peaches

Instructions

Let the ham stand at room temperature for 90 minutes.
Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C) and set the rack at the lowest position. Rinse and pat dry the ham. Using a sharp knife, score the skin of the ham in a criss-cross pattern. Place ham on an oven-safe skillet with high sides or a large pot. Pour the peach juice into the pan, and add additional water if necessary to bring the liquid level to 1/2 inch. Cover the pan tightly with tin foil. Roast in oven for 1 1/2 to 2 hours (about 15 minutes per pound) or until the internal temperature of the ham reaches 100°F (38°C).
While the ham is cooking, prepare the glaze. Combine the peach jam, brown sugar, ginger, and cloves in a small sauce pot and cook over low heat until the glaze is thick and sticky. Turn off heat and set aside.
When the ham has finished cooking (step 2), take it out of the oven. Turn the oven to 425°F (220°C). Brush the ham with about 1/4 of the glaze all over. You should have some peach juice in the pan; if not, add additional peach juice or water to reach 1/4″. Once the oven comes to temperature, return the ham, uncovered, to the oven. Bake for 15 minutes until the liquid is bubbly and the ham has turned to a nice, deep golden brown. The internal temperature of the ham should be 120°F (49°C). Remove ham to a cutting board and let rest for 15 minutes.
Return the remaining glaze to the stove on medium-low heat. Your roasting pan should have some peach juice left – carefully pour about 1/2 cup of the peach pan juice into the glaze. Whisk and adjust with either more juice or peach jam to create a beautiful, slightly thick glaze for serving.
Grill the peaches and serve alongside the Ham topped with Peachy Glaze.

Notes

Cooking times vary – approximately 15 minutes per pound.

Nutrition

Keyword: easter ham, easter recipe, glazed ham, peach glazed ham

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