Maple-Whiskey Easter Ham with Pineapple Relish

A glazed ham always feels right at home on the Easter table, and this version is especially festive. Brushed with maple syrup, whiskey, brown sugar, and warm spices, the ham bakes into a beautifully caramelized centerpiece with rich, savory-sweet flavor. Served with a fresh pineapple relish and finished with orange slices for a bright spring touch, it’s a stunning dish made for sharing.
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Serves 8–10

Ingredients
For the Ham

• 1 fully cooked, bone-in smoked ham, about 8–10 lb
• 1 tbsp whole cloves (optional)
• 1 tbsp whole cloves (optional)
• Fresh parsley or kale, for garnish

For the Maple-Whiskey Glaze

• 1 cup maple syrup‍
• 3/4 cup dark brown sugar
• 1/3 cup whiskey
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard‍
• 2 tbsp orange juice
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F. Place the ham cut-side down in a roasting pan. Pat dry, then score the fat in a shallow diamond pattern. Stud with cloves if desired. Add 1/2 cup water to the pan and cover loosely with foil.
2. Bake for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until heated through, allowing about 12–15 minutes per pound.
3. While the ham bakes, combine the maple syrup, brown sugar, whiskey, Dijon, orange juice, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, ginger, ground cloves, and black pepper in a saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Remove from the heat and whisk in the butter.
4. During the last 35–45 minutes of baking, uncover the ham and brush generously with the glaze. Return to the oven, brushing with more glaze every 10–15 minutes, until the ham is golden brown, glossy and caramelized. For a deeper finish, raise the oven to 375°F for the final 10 minutes, watching carefully so the crust doesn’t burn.
5. Let the ham rest for 15–20 minutes before slicing. To plate, arrange green kale on a platter, place ham on top and garnish with orange slices. Serve with pineapple relish alongside.

For the Pineapple Relish
Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh pineapple, small dice
• 1/3 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1/4 cup red grapes or cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 small red chili or jalapeño, finely minced
• 1 tbsp fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
• Zest and juice of 1 lime
• 1 tsp maple syrup
• Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions
In a medium bowl, combine the pineapple, red onion, grapes or cherry tomatoes, chili, herbs, lime zest, lime juice, and maple syrup. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let sit for 10–15 minutes before serving
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Chef’s Tips
A bone-in smoked ham gives the best flavor and presentation.
Glazing in layers helps build a rich, caramelized crust.
Fresh pineapple will give the relish the brightest flavor and best texture.
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Serving Suggestion
Serve with roasted carrots, spring asparagus, buttery baby potatoes, and hot cross buns for a beautiful Easter table.

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