December calls for recipes that feel special, warm, and joyfully nostalgic, and this Coca-Cola glazed ham checks every box. The natural caramel notes of Coke pair beautifully with cloves, brown sugar, and citrus to create a glossy, festive glaze worthy of any holiday gathering. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but stunning enough to serve at a celebration. Plus, your kitchen will smell absolutely incredible while it bakes. Whether you’re hosting family, attending a potluck, or just craving something comforting as the year winds down, this recipe brings classic holiday magic to the table.
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (7–9 lbs)
- 1 12-oz can Coca-Cola
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves (or 8–10 whole cloves)
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Equipment
- Roasting pan
- Small saucepan
- Basting brush
- Aluminum foil
- Meat thermometer
Directions
- Preheat & Prep: Heat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham cut-side down in a roasting pan. Score the surface in a crosshatch pattern to help the glaze soak in.
- Mix the Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine Coca-Cola, brown sugar, honey, mustard, cloves, and vanilla (if using). Simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
- Add Citrus & Bake: Tuck orange slices around the ham. Brush on a generous layer of glaze, then cover the pan loosely with foil. Bake for 1½ hours, basting every 20–25 minutes.
- Finish with Shine: Remove foil for the final 20 minutes to deepen the caramelization. When the internal temperature reaches 140°F, remove from the oven and let rest for 10–15 minutes.
- Serve: Slice thick or thin, drizzle with extra pan glaze, and enjoy the sweet-savory sparkle that only Coca-Cola can bring to holiday comfort food.