Nothing says cozy home cooking quite like the delightful aroma of an Apple Cinnamon Ham wafting through the kitchen. This delicious recipe combines the savory goodness of ham with the sweet and spicy flavors of apples and cinnamon. Perfect for a special family dinner or a holiday gathering, this dish is sure to impress your guests and leave them coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into the steps to create this mouthwatering Apple Cinnamon Ham.
**Apple Cinnamon Ham**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 bone-in ham, about 8-10 pounds
– 2 cups apple cider
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 2 apples, cored and sliced
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– Fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and place the ham in a large roasting pan, fat side up.
2. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern with a sharp knife, being careful not to cut too deep.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has dissolved.
4. Pour half of the apple cider mixture over the ham, making sure to get into the scored lines for maximum flavor infusion.
5. Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 1 1/2 hours, basting occasionally with the pan juices.
6. Meanwhile, in a bowl, toss the sliced apples with the maple syrup until well coated.
7. After the initial baking time, remove the foil from the ham and arrange the apple slices around the ham in the roasting pan.
8. Drizzle the remaining apple cider mixture over the ham and apples, then return to the oven, uncovered, for another 30-45 minutes, or until the ham is nicely browned and caramelized.
9. Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing.
10. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs for a festive touch before serving.
The combination of tender ham, sweet apples, and warm spices in this Apple Cinnamon Ham recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. The savory-sweet flavor profile is perfect for a special occasion or a comforting family meal. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply looking to elevate your weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the process of preparing this delightful ham and savor the heartwarming aromas that will fill your home.
