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Bourbon and Coke Glazed Ham

This Bourbon and Coke Glazed Ham combines sweet Coca-Cola and rich bourbon for a flavorful centerpiece perfect for holiday gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 15 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Ham
  • 1 6 to 8 pound fully cooked bone-in ham Ensure the ham is at room temperature before cooking.
  • 3 12 ounce cans Coca-Cola Use original Coca-Cola for the best flavor.
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced Yellow or sweet onion adds the best flavor.
  • 1/3 cup honey Preferably raw and local for a more complex sweetness.
  • 3/4 cup dark brown sugar Dark brown works best for deep molasses flavor.
  • 1/4 cup bourbon Use a mid-range bourbon like Maker’s Mark.
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper Adjust based on your spice preference.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 15-20 whole cloves These add a nice aromatic touch.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Start by placing the ham, Coca-Cola, and sliced onion in a large Dutch oven. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then cover and reduce to low. Allow it to simmer for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
  2. While the ham is simmering, mix together the honey, dark brown sugar, bourbon, Dijon mustard, cayenne pepper, and black pepper in a small bowl. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is uniform.
  3. Once your ham has finished simmering, preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Carefully discard the cooking liquid, leaving the tender ham and onions in the Dutch oven.
  4. Transfer the ham to a roasting pan. Using a sharp knife, make a criss-cross pattern on the surface of the ham, cutting about 1/4 inch deep. Stick a clove into the center of each diamond shape for an aromatic finish.
  5. Brush the prepared glaze generously over the ham. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, and baste with remaining glaze once or twice for extra flavor.

Notes

If you have leftover ham, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, slice and freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. Avoid cutting too deeply into the ham to maintain its juiciness. For a non-alcoholic version, replace bourbon with additional apple cider.