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Coke Glazed Spiral Ham

An incredibly flavorful, juicy spiral ham with a sticky-sweet Coca-Cola glaze that caramelizes into a beautiful mahogany crust. Perfect for holidays and special gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 12 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

For the Ham
  • 1 (7-9 lb) fully cooked, spiral-sliced ham
  • 1.5 cups cola not diet
  • 1 cup packed dark brown sugar
  • 0.5 cup Dijon mustard
  • 0.33 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 20-30 whole cloves optional
For Garnish (optional)
  • Fresh rosemary sprigs
  • Orange or apple slices

Equipment

  • Large Roasting Pan with Rack
  • Medium Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Basting brush
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the spiral ham, flat-side down, on a rack in a roasting pan. If desired, score the fat cap and stud with cloves.
  2. Make the glaze: In a saucepan, combine cola, brown sugar, Dijon, vinegar, butter, and pepper. Simmer for 8-12 mins until reduced and syrupy. Remove from heat.
  3. Pour about 1 cup of the glaze over the ham. Add ½ cup plain cola to the pan bottom. Tent ham tightly with foil.
  4. Bake for about 10-12 mins per pound, or until internal temp is 110-120°F. About 45 mins before done, remove ham and uncover.
  5. Increase oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush ham generously with reserved thick glaze. Return to oven, uncovered, for 15-20 mins until glaze is caramelized.
  6. Remove ham. Tent loosely with foil and rest for 20-30 mins before carving. Serve with any extra warmed glaze.

Notes

Do not use diet soda. The vinegar is crucial for balancing sweetness. Resting is key for juicy slices. Leftover ham is excellent for sandwiches, soups, and breakfast dishes.