A Simple Make-Ahead Bourbon Glaze for Ham or Turkey

What kind of recipe is it?

Bourbon glaze for ham or turkey is a flavorful and decadent addition to festive meals, elevating traditional dishes with a sweet and smoky profile.

This recipe is characterized by the rich depth of bourbon, combined with brown sugar, mustard, and spices, creating a sticky, caramelized finish that enhances the savory taste of meats.

Perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions, this dish is aimed at home cooks looking to impress guests and create memorable experiences around the dinner table.

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Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Bourbon	1 cup
Brown sugar	1 cup
Honey	1/4 cup
Dijon mustard	2 tablespoons
Soy sauce	2 tablespoons
Ground cinnamon	1 teaspoon
Ground ginger	1 teaspoon
Ground black pepper	1/2 teaspoon
Salt	1/2 teaspoon
Red pepper flakes	1/4 teaspoon (optional)
Fresh lemon juice	1 tablespoon

This mixture of ingredients creates a delicious glaze to enhance the flavor of your ham or turkey, making it a perfect choice for holiday dinners or special celebrations.

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Cooking Steps

Prepare Ingredients: Gather all ingredients from the previous list, measuring the bourbon (240 ml), brown sugar (200 g), honey (60 ml), Dijon mustard (30 g), soy sauce (30 ml), ground cinnamon (5 g), ground ginger (5 g), ground black pepper (1.5 g), salt (3 g), red pepper flakes (optional), and fresh lemon juice (15 ml).
Mise en Place: Chop any fresh herbs or additional ingredients if desired. Verify measuring tools, mixing bowls, and a whisk or spoon are ready for use.
Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 175 °C (350 °F) and position the oven rack in the center.
Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan (approximately 2 liters), combine 240 ml bourbon, 200 g brown sugar, 60 ml honey, 30 g Dijon mustard, 30 ml soy sauce, 5 g ground cinnamon, 5 g ground ginger, 1.5 g ground black pepper, 3 g salt, and optional red pepper flakes if using.
Heat Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat (around 180 °C/350 °F). Stir until the mixture is well combined and the sugar has fully dissolved, about 5–7 minutes. The sauce should be slightly bubbling and fragrant.
Simmer Glaze: Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze has thickened and coats the back of a spoon. It should have a shiny, syrup-like consistency.
Glaze Meat: Prepare the ham or turkey (at least 2 kg/4.5 lbs), making sure it’s thawed if previously frozen. Brush or pour a thin layer of the bourbon glaze over the surface of the meat, reserving some for later glazing.
Roast Protein: Place the glazed ham or turkey in a roasting pan (approximately 3-4 liters) and roast in the preheated oven. For ham, roast for approximately 1.5 hours; for turkey, roast for about 2–3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 74 °C (165 °F).
Add More Glaze: Halfway through roasting, baste the meat with the reserved glaze to enhance flavor, repeating every 20-30 minutes until finished.
Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature meets safe standards (74 °C/165 °F for both ham and turkey). The juices should run clear with no pink.
Rest Meat: Once the meat reaches the desired internal temperature, remove from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Final Glaze (Optional): Heat any remaining glaze on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through (about 5 minutes) for an additional serving sauce.
Slice and Serve: Slice the ham or turkey and serve warm with additional glaze on the side. Enjoy the rich aroma and glossy appearance of the glaze.
Cool Down: If there are any leftovers, cool them quickly to room temperature (within 2 hours) before refrigerating.

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Variations

Apple Cider Bourbon Glaze: Replace bourbon with 240 ml (1 cup) apple cider for a fruity twist, adding 100 g (1/2 cup) applesauce for extra moisture and flavor.
Maple Whiskey Glaze: Substitute bourbon with 240 ml (1 cup) maple whiskey and use 100 g (1/2 cup) pure maple syrup instead of honey to impart a rich maple flavor.
Spicy Pineapple Glaze: Incorporate 240 ml (1 cup) pineapple juice in place of bourbon and add 100 g (1/2 cup) crushed pineapple for a sweet and tangy kick, with extra red pepper flakes for heat.
Vegan Citrus Glaze: Use 240 ml (1 cup) orange juice to replace bourbon and substitute honey with 60 ml (1/4 cup) agave syrup for a plant-based option, adding 15 ml (1 tbsp) lime juice for brightness.

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Tips on plating and presentation

When plating your glazed ham or turkey, consider the presentation as much as the taste, since the visual appeal can enhance the dining experience.

Use a large, elegant platter to showcase the meat, and arrange slices artfully.

Add garnishes like fresh herbs or citrus slices for color.

Don’t forget to create height with the dish for a more dynamic look.

Enjoy!

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What other dishes can I pair it with?

After you’ve set the stage with a beautifully plated glazed ham or turkey, it’s time to think about the perfect accompaniments.

I love serving buttery mashed potatoes, roasted seasonal vegetables, or a tangy coleslaw for balance. You might also consider a sweet potato casserole to complement the glaze’s flavors.

These sides elevate the meal and create a delightful dining experience.

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What drinks can I pair it with?

What could enhance the rich flavors of your bourbon-glazed ham or turkey better than the right drink?

I love pairing it with a smooth bourbon on the rocks, which complements the sweetness of the glaze. A crisp apple cider also works wonders, balancing the savory notes beautifully.

For something unique, try a smoky old fashioned—it’s a true flavor adventure!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Other Spirits Instead of Bourbon?

Absolutely, you can use other spirits! I’ve tried rum and whiskey as substitutes, and they both worked wonderfully. Just keep in mind that each spirit brings its own unique flavor to the dish.

How Long Can I Store the Glaze in the Refrigerator?

You can store the glaze in the refrigerator for about one to two weeks. I always make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain its flavor and freshness. Enjoy your cooking!

Is the Glaze Suitable for a Vegan Diet?

No, the glaze isn’t suitable for a vegan diet. It typically contains ingredients like honey or butter that aren’t plant-based. If you want a vegan option, I’d suggest using maple syrup or coconut oil instead.

Can I Freeze the Bourbon Glaze?

Yes, you can freeze the bourbon glaze! I usually pour it into an airtight container and freeze it for up to three months. Just let it thaw in the fridge before using. Enjoy!

How Spicy Is the Bourbon Glaze?

The bourbon glaze isn’t spicy at all. It’s more about the rich, sweet flavors balanced with a hint of warmth from the bourbon. I really enjoy its depth without any heat. You’ll love it!