Ham With Sprite Recipe For Juicy, Flavorful Results

Ham with Sprite is a surprisingly delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings together the savory flavors of glazed ham with the light, citrusy sweetness of Sprite soda. This unique recipe has been a favorite at family gatherings and holiday dinners for years, thanks to its simple preparation and delicious results.

Using Sprite not only tenderizes the ham but also adds a subtle effervescence that balances the saltiness of the meat perfectly. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just looking to try something new, this ham with Sprite recipe is guaranteed to impress.

In this blog post, I’ll guide you through every step to make the perfect ham with a sparkling twist. You’ll learn why this recipe stands out, what ingredients and equipment you need, and some handy tips to elevate the dish even further.

So, grab your ham and a bottle of Sprite, and let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This ham with Sprite recipe is a game-changer because it combines simplicity with incredible flavor. Instead of complicated marinades or long cooking times, the soda does much of the work for you.

The natural sweetness and acidity of Sprite help break down the ham’s fibers, resulting in a juicy, tender dish that melts in your mouth.

Plus, it’s versatile enough to fit any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a festive holiday spread or a casual family dinner, this recipe elevates the humble ham without requiring hours in the kitchen.

The glaze caramelizes beautifully, giving the ham a shiny, golden crust that looks as good as it tastes.

Most importantly, this recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. With minimal ingredients and straightforward instructions, anyone can create a delicious ham with a refreshing, citrusy twist.

Ingredients

• 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 7-8 pounds)
• 2 cups Sprite soda (regular, not diet)
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• Whole cloves for studding (optional)

Equipment

• Roasting pan large enough to hold the ham
• Aluminum foil for tenting the ham
• Basting brush
• Sharp knife for scoring and carving
• Meat thermometer to check internal temperature
• Mixing bowl for glaze preparation
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This moderate temperature allows the ham to heat through without drying out.
2. Prepare the ham: Remove the ham from its packaging and pat dry with paper towels. If there is a thick layer of rind, you can trim it off, leaving a thin layer of fat for flavor.
3. Score the ham: Using a sharp knife, gently score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, about 1/4 inch deep. This will help the glaze penetrate and create beautiful caramelization.
4. Optional step: Stud the intersections of the scored diamonds with whole cloves for added aroma and presentation.
5. Place the ham in the roasting pan, flat side down.
6. Pour the Sprite into the bottom of the pan, ensuring it covers the base but does not submerge the ham.
7. Mix the glaze: In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, black pepper, and apple cider vinegar. Stir until smooth and well combined.
8. Baste the ham: Using a basting brush, generously coat the surface of the ham with about half of the glaze mixture.
9. Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C), basting every 30 minutes with the remaining glaze and pan juices.
10. Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the glaze to thicken and caramelize on the ham’s surface. Keep basting as needed to avoid burning.
11. Check the temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham is heated through but not overcooked.
12. Rest the ham: Once done, remove from the oven and tent with foil. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
13. Serve warm and enjoy the juicy, flavorful ham with that delightful Sprite glaze.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra touch of flavor, try adding a splash of pineapple juice to the Sprite before baking. It adds a tropical sweetness that pairs beautifully with the ham.”

• Use a spiral-cut ham for easier slicing and faster cooking time.
• Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the roasting pan for aromatic depth.
• For a spicier twist, mix in a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes into the glaze.
• Try different sodas: If you want to experiment, ginger ale or lemon-lime soda can be good alternatives, providing their unique flavor profiles.
• Leftovers: Ham sandwiches or ham and cheese omelets are delicious ways to use up any leftovers.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This ham with Sprite pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it alongside classic mashed potatoes or a creamy scalloped potato gratin for a comforting meal.

For some freshness and crunch, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the sweet glaze perfectly. Roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus also make excellent accompaniments.

If you want to keep things festive, add a side of cranberry sauce or a fruity chutney. For bread lovers, warm dinner rolls or cornbread are ideal for soaking up the delicious juices.

Conclusion

Ham with Sprite is more than just a simple recipe; it’s a flavorful and easy way to transform a traditional ham into a centerpiece that everyone will love. The soda’s natural sweetness and acidity create a tender, juicy ham with a beautiful caramelized glaze that is both visually appealing and delicious.

Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced chef, this recipe is accessible and sure to impress your family and guests.

With straightforward ingredients, minimal prep, and a few handy tips, you can bring this delightful dish to your table with confidence. Try this ham with Sprite recipe at your next gathering, and don’t forget to explore other delicious recipes like Classic Roast Chicken, Slow Cooker Beef Stew, and Homemade Apple Pie to round out your meal plan.

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