Rebel Float Root Beer Ham (Printable Version)
A sweet root beer glaze adds nostalgic flair to succulent ham, perfect for holidays and gatherings.
# The Ingredients You'll Need:
→ Ham
01 -
1 bone-in, fully cooked ham (8–10 lb)
02 -
2 tablespoons whole cloves (optional)
→ Root Beer Glaze
03 -
2 cups root beer (not diet)
04 -
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
05 -
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
06 -
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
07 -
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
08 -
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
09 -
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
→ Finishing
10 -
1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for finishing)
11 -
Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)
# Step-by-Step Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 325°F. Position a rack in the lower third of the oven.
02 -
Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern with a sharp knife. Insert whole cloves at the intersections if desired.
03 -
Arrange the ham on a rack in a large roasting pan. Pour 1/2 cup water into the pan base to prevent burning.
04 -
In a small saucepan, combine root beer, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, butter, black pepper, and cinnamon. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until reduced to about 1 cup and syrupy.
05 -
Generously brush the ham with some of the glaze. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 1 hour, basting with fresh glaze every 20 minutes.
06 -
Remove foil, raise oven temperature to 400°F, and continue roasting for 30–45 minutes, basting every 10 minutes until the surface is glossy and caramelized.
07 -
Allow ham to rest for 15 minutes before slicing. For a float effect, drizzle each slice with a touch of heavy cream and garnish with a maraschino cherry if desired.
# Additional Notes:
01 -
Add 1 teaspoon smoked paprika to the glaze for a subtle smoky note.
02 -
Pair with roasted potatoes, green beans, or a crisp salad for a balanced meal.
03 -
For intensified root beer flavor, reduce an extra cup of root beer to a syrup and drizzle over slices before serving.