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There’s nothing quite as heartwarming as the sight of a perfectly smoked ham gracing your dinner table. I discovered the magic of Double Smoked Ham with Glaze during a family gathering, where the laughter and chatter intertwined with the sweet and savory aroma wafting from the kitchen. As I sat surrounded by loved ones, each bite of that tender, smoky ham brought smiles and compliments—who knew a single dish could foster such joy?

This recipe is a game changer, elevating a standard spiral ham into a show-stopping centerpiece that’ll make everyone forget about fast food. The combination of ginger ale and honey creates a glaze that’s both luscious and surprisingly easy to whip up. With every basting, the flavors deepen, enveloping the ham in a sticky sweetness that’s hard to resist. So whether you’re planning a holiday feast or simply looking to impress at a casual Sunday dinner, this Double Smoked Ham with Glaze will not only satisfy cravings but also warm hearts around the table. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Double Smoked Ham with Glaze

Simplicity at its best: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels—no professional training needed!

Dazzling flavor: The sweet and spicy glaze made from ginger ale and honey adds a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.

Impressive centerpiece: Serve this stunning ham at gatherings, and watch as it becomes the star of the show, delighting family and friends alike.

Time-saving option: With only three hours of cooking time, you can easily prepare this dish alongside your favorite sides.

Affordably indulgent: It transforms an everyday ham into a gourmet experience without breaking the bank.

You can elevate your holiday festivities or any special occasion with this delightful dish that surely won’t let you down!

Double Smoked Ham with Glaze Ingredients

For the Ham
• Smoked spiral ham – 8-10 pounds, this is the star of the dish, ensuring a rich, smoky flavor in every bite.

For the Glaze
• Ginger ale – 2 ¼ cups, brings a fizzy sweetness that balances the savory ham beautifully.
• Brown sugar – 1 cup packed, enhances the glaze’s sweetness and helps achieve that shiny finish.
• Honey – 3 tablespoons, deepens the flavor and adds a delightful stickiness to the glaze.
• Apple cider vinegar – 4 ½ teaspoons, introduces a tangy element that cuts through the sweetness.
• Garlic cloves – 2, minced, infuses the glaze with a savory punch that complements the ham.
• Dijon mustard – 1 ½ teaspoons, adds a slight heat and depth that elevates the entire glaze.

This Double Smoked Ham with Glaze is everything you need to make your next gathering unforgettable!

How to Make Double Smoked Ham with Glaze

Prepare the Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the ginger ale, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey, and apple cider vinegar. Bring to a boil and reduce the mixture until it thickens by half, about 15 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Set the Ham: Remove all netting and packaging from your smoked spiral ham and lay it in a large foil pan. Gently pull the slices apart to create space, and drizzle the honey glaze down between each slice. Don’t forget to brush the top generously with more glaze.
Prepare the Smoker: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to set up your smoker. Preheat it to a temperature range of 230 – 240 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring it’s ready to work its magic on the ham.
Baste the Ham: Once the ham is in the smoker, remember to baste it with the honey glaze every hour. This step is crucial for layering that delicious sweet flavor!
Cook to Perfection: Smoke the ham for about 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Witness the transformation as the sweet, smoky aroma fills your kitchen.

Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for a vibrant presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Double Smoked Ham Variations

Feel free to play around with these ideas and make this dish even more delightful for your loved ones!

Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness. Your guests will love the unexpected heat!
Citrus Zing: Mix in the zest of one orange or lemon into the glaze. This brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing twist that will awaken your taste buds.
Maple Syrup Substitute: Swap honey for maple syrup in the glaze for a unique sweetness with a hint of earthiness. It’ll give your ham a cozy, fall-like flavor that’s perfect for family gatherings.
Herb Infusion: Add finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme to the glaze for an herby note that complements the richness of the ham beautifully. The aroma will make your kitchen smell divine!
Sweet and Smoky: Sprinkle some smoked paprika in the glaze. The added smoky aroma will enhance the overall flavor and take it to the next level of deliciousness.
Cranberry Sauce: Spread a layer of cranberry sauce between the slices of ham before adding the glaze. This adds both color and a sweet-tart contrast that guests will rave about.
Brown Sugar Variation: For a deeper flavor, use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar in the glaze. It will create a more caramelized and complex sweetness!
Nutty Crunch: After glazing, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the ham for added texture and a delightful nutty crunch that balances the soft, juicy ham.

What to Serve with Double Smoked Ham with Glaze?

Make your meal unforgettable with delightful pairings that balance, elevate, and complement the sweet, smoky goodness of your ham.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These fluffy, buttery potatoes add a comforting element that perfectly contrasts the sweet flavors of the ham.
Pairing luscious mashed potatoes with Double Smoked Ham creates a harmony of textures—every bite feels like a warm hug.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their earthy flavor and slight bitterness enhance the sweetness of the glaze, providing a lovely balance.
These crispy, caramelized sprouts introduce a touch of sophistication while highlighting the ham’s rich taste.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and slightly tender, these carrots echo the honey notes in the glaze, creating a seamless flavor connection.
Serve them alongside for a vibrant plate that’s both visually appealing and deliciously harmonious.
Apple Sauce: This classic accompaniment offers a fruity brightness that cuts through the richness of the ham.
Its tangy-sweet profile pairs wonderfully, making every bite refreshing and invigorating.
Green Bean Almondine: Crisp green beans tossed with toasted almonds add crunch and color, enhancing the heartiness of your main dish.
This light side brings a refreshing snap that complements the savory depth of the Double Smoked Ham.
Cheesy Corn Casserole: Rich and creamy, this dish contrasts beautifully with the smoky ham while adding a comforting, hearty element.
The sweetness of the corn and the gooey cheese create a deliciously indulgent pairing everyone will love.
Sparkling Apple Cider: For a drink, opt for sparkling apple cider to mirror the glaze’s sweetness while adding a refreshing effervescence.
It’s perfect for toasting and enhances the festive spirit of your meal.
Pumpkin Pie: End the feast with a slice of warm pumpkin pie to echo the sweet notes of the ham, leaving everyone satisfied and happy.
This comforting dessert brings the flavors of the season together and creates a sweet finale to your gathering.

Make Ahead Options

These Double Smoked Ham with Glaze preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeks! You can prepare the honey glaze up to 3 days in advance by following the initial steps. Simply store the cooled glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, remove the ham from the packaging and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, drizzle the pre-made glaze generously between the slices and follow through with smoking as instructed. This not only enhances the flavors but also streamlines your cooking process, ensuring your ham is just as delicious with minimal last-minute effort!

How to Store and Freeze Double Smoked Ham with Glaze

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It will stay good for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the ham in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a 325°F oven, covered, until warm throughout, basting occasionally with glaze to keep it moist.

Enjoy leftovers: Use slices of your Double Smoked Ham with Glaze in sandwiches or as a topping for salads for a delicious second act!

Tips for the Best Double Smoked Ham with Glaze

Choose Quality Ham: Opt for a high-quality smoked spiral ham; it ensures richer flavor and tenderness, elevating your dish significantly.
Don’t Skip the Basting: Make sure to baste your ham every hour. This prevents it from drying out while intensifying the glaze’s flavor and texture.
Let it Rest: After smoking, allow the ham to rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This helps redistribute the juices for a moister bite.
Check Your Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your ham reaches exactly 140 degrees Fahrenheit for food safety and optimal flavor.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to experiment with the glaze! Adding spices like cloves or a hint of orange zest can bring a unique twist to your Double Smoked Ham with Glaze.

Double Smoked Ham with Glaze Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best smoked spiral ham?
Absolutely! When selecting a smoked spiral ham, look for one that’s firm to the touch with a nice, even color. Avoid any with dark spots or excess moisture, as these can indicate spoilage. I often recommend checking for a quality brand that specifies it has been fully cooked to ensure the best flavor and tenderness.

How should I store leftovers from my Double Smoked Ham with Glaze?
To keep your ham fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 3 days for optimal taste and quality. If you want to enjoy it later, freezing is an excellent option!

Can I freeze my Double Smoked Ham with Glaze?
Absolutely! For long-term storage, wrap the leftover ham tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and place it in the freezer. This method helps prevent freezer burn and keeps it tasty for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What if my ham isn’t heating evenly?
Very! If you notice that your ham isn’t heating evenly, make sure to rotate it midway through reheating. Also, check your oven’s temperature is set correctly. It can be helpful to baste it with more glaze as it reheats, which helps distribute moisture throughout the meat.

Are there any dietary considerations for my family or pets?
Yes! If you have family members with dietary restrictions, be aware that the glaze contains sugar and mustard, which may not be suitable for everyone. As for pets, it’s best to keep this dish away from them; the glazed ham can be too rich and sweet for their digestive systems. Always check for any specific allergies to the ingredients like Dijon mustard or garlic!