⏱ 35 min
Dinner
Herb-Crusted Grilled Chicken
Juicy chicken breast with a fragrant herb crust, served with roasted seasonal vegetables.
When you want a wholesome, deeply satisfying meal that requires minimal cleanup, this Twice-Smoked Bourbon Brown Sugar Glazed Ham Recipe is a foolproof choice. Pairing bone-in spiral- city ham, dark brown sugar & ⅓ honey and kentucky bourbon whiskey in just 2 hr 30 min, it offers comforting flavor that family and dinner guests will genuinely savor.
Ingredients
12 servings
Advertisement
Step-by-Step Instructions
1
Set Smoker to 225°F & Smoke Ham (1.5 Hr)
Preheat smoker to 225°F (107°C) with applewood or cherry wood chunks. Place spiral ham flat-side down in a disposable foil pan. **Smoke uncovered for 1.5 hours** to absorb wood smoke.
2
Simmer Bourbon Brown Sugar Glaze (10 Min)
In a saucepan, simmer brown sugar, bourbon, honey, Dijon mustard, vinegar, and warm spices for 5 minutes until syrupy and bubbling.
3
Glaze & Caramelize (45 Min)
Brush half the warm glaze between ham slices and all over exterior. **Smoke for another 45 minutes**, glazing every 15 minutes, until internal temp reaches 140°F (60°C) and glaze is dark and caramelized. Rest 15 minutes before carving!
Chef Amara’s Kitchen Secrets & Pro Tips
- Apple or Cherry Wood: Sweet fruit woods enhance ham's natural sweetness without tasting harsh or bitter.
- Glaze Between Slices: Spreading glaze between spiral slices ensures every bite is bursting with bourbon brown sugar caramel.
1. Build Deep Flavor from the Fond: When browning ingredients, scrape up the caramelized golden bits (fond) from the pan bottom with a splash of liquid. That concentrated brown crust is where true savory umami lives. 2. Season in Measured Layers: Introduce small pinches of salt at different cooking stages rather than dumping seasoning on at the end. This draws out moisture and seasons every ingredient to its core. 3. Chef's Kitchen Secret: Apple or Cherry Wood: Sweet fruit woods enhance ham's natural sweetness without tasting harsh or bitter.
Chef’s Cooking Guide & FAQs
Troubleshooting & Quick Fixes
▾
Troubleshooting & Quick Fixes
- What if the Sauce for Twice-Smoked Bourbon Brown Sugar Glazed Ham Recipe Separates or Feels Greasy?: If a dairy or emulsion sauce breaks, immediately take the pan off direct heat. Vigorously whisk in a tablespoon of hot water, broth, or cream until the velvety sheen re-emulsifies.
- How to Rescue a Dish That Tastes Overly Salty?: Dilute with additional unsalted liquid (broth, cream, or water), or splash in a small touch of acid like fresh lemon juice or vinegar to soften sharp salinity.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Guidelines
▾
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Guidelines
Store leftovers in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a preheated 350°F oven or covered skillet over medium-low heat until steaming hot throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
▾
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, this dish can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance, kept covered in the refrigerator, and baked or cooked when ready to serve.
Q: Can I substitute common pantry ingredients? A: Yes, this recipe is forgiving. Check our substitution notes in the ingredient card for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan alternatives.
Home Cook Community
Kitchen Notes & Discussion
Tried this Twice-Smoked Bourbon Brown Sugar Glazed Ham Recipe? Share your tips, substitutions, or question with fellow home cooks!
Leave a Kitchen Note
Be the first to leave a Kitchen Note!
Have you made this Twice-Smoked Bourbon Brown Sugar Glazed Ham Recipe? Share your experience, cooking tips, or tweaks below.
You Might Also Love
More Delicious Recipes
⏱ 20 min
Dinner
Herb Butter Ribeye Steak
Thick-cut ribeye steak seared in a cast-iron skillet, basted with garlic compound herb butter.
⏱ 30 min
Dinner
Juicy Meat and Grain Burger
Juicy blended meat and grain burgers made with lean grass-fed beef, cooked quinoa, brown rice, and caramelized onions.