To bake a ham in the oven, follow these expert steps for a flavorful, moist, and beautifully glazed result:

Preparation and Cooking

• Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
• Calculate cooking time: Roast the ham for about 10 to 20 minutes per pound depending on the recipe and type of ham (bone-in or boneless). For example, a common guideline is 10 minutes per pound at 325°F, then increase the heat for glazing at the end

• Place the ham fat-side up in a large roasting pan. Add about 1/2 inch of water to the pan to keep the ham moist during cooking and cover tightly with foil

• Cook covered at 325°F for most of the time, until the internal temperature reaches about 110°F to 125°F (depending on recipe), since most hams are pre-cooked and you are reheating and glazing

Glazing and Finishing

• Prepare a glaze with sweet ingredients such as brown sugar, maple syrup, honey, mustard, fruit juices (orange or pineapple), and spices. For example, a simple glaze can be made with brown sugar, maple syrup, and orange juice

• During the last 30 to 45 minutes of cooking , remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 400-425°F (204-218°C)

• Brush the ham generously with glaze and return it to the oven uncovered. Repeat glazing every 10-15 minutes to build a caramelized, sticky crust

• Bake uncovered until the internal temperature reaches about 140°F and the glaze is nicely browned and caramelized

Resting and Serving

• Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows juices to redistribute

• Carve the ham by removing large chunks or slices from the bone, then serve with pan juices or extra glaze

Summary of Key Tips

• Cook ham fat-side up with water in the pan, covered with foil initially.
• Roast at 325°F for most of the time, then increase heat for glazing.
• Use a sweet glaze applied during the last 30-45 minutes.
• Rest ham before carving for best juiciness.

This method ensures a moist, flavorful ham with a beautifully caramelized glaze