Today I’m talking about an apricot-glazed ham enhanced with lemon juice, honey, and barbecue sauce. It’s a tasty balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that is impressive and delicious—perfect for a traditional Easter dinner!
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Now, usually, I’m all about bone-in, scored-to-perfection, overnight situation for my Easter ham. But, let’s be real, sometimes life calls for a quicker route. This is a day-of recipe that you can start just 3 hours in advance, and it’s going to be a total winner. So, let’s get cooking!
What Kind of Ham to Use
This recipe takes a pre-cooked, boneless sliced ham—and turns it into something truly special. I’m using a 5-pound ham that will serve 8-12 people. You don’t want to use anything bone-in or uncooked for this method, as they’ll need to cook for much longer.
How to Make Apricot-Glazed Ham
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To make the glaze, I’m using Bonne Maman apricot preserves (that’s the good stuff!), a drizzle of honey, a splash of fresh lemon juice, and a touch of your favorite barbecue sauce (preferably tomato-based)—just enough to give it that subtle, smoky depth. You just whisk it all up and set aside.
I put the ham roast in a casserole dish and layer on the glaze across the entire top and in between the slices. Cover the dish with the dish’s lid or aluminum foil.
Now it’s time to let the convection oven work its magic. The ham goes into the oven low and slow at 250 degrees for an hour and a half. Then you take it out and uncover it, basting the ham with the glaze in the pan. Keep the top off and then crank up the heat to 300 to get that gorgeous, sticky glaze to develop color.
How Do I Start the Ham the Day Before?
Just a little tip: skip a sliced or spiral ham if you’re trying to prep the day before. Trust me, it’ll dry out. If you want a longer-cooked ham, use the steps for either my Easter Ham with Orange Glaze or Easy & Amazing Overnight Easter Ham, and swap out the glaze in the recipe for the glaze below!
What to Serve with Easter Ham
If I’m going to make the entire Easter dinner, I’m starting with some deviled eggs, some fresh spring vegetable sides, potatoes, and a light dessert. You can also outsource some of these recipes by turning your meal into a potluck.
This apricot-glazed ham recipe serves about 10-15 people, perfect for a family gathering. And yes, you can serve it right in your favorite braising dish or Dutch oven. It’s elevated and practical. That’s a win in my book. Enjoy your time with family!