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Tender Instant Pot Glazed Ham Recipe Easy Perfect Caramelized Crust Guide

Instant Pot glazed ham - featured image

A quick and easy Instant Pot glazed ham recipe that delivers a tender, juicy ham with a perfect caramelized crust, ideal for busy evenings or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 to 4-pound bone-in spiral-cut ham (pre-cooked)
  • 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
  • 1 cup water or apple juice
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

  1. Remove the ham from packaging and pat dry with paper towels. Score the rind lightly in a diamond pattern about 1/4 inch deep if thick.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves. Set aside.
  3. Pour 1 cup water or apple juice into the Instant Pot. Place the trivet inside and set the ham on top, cut side down if spiral-cut.
  4. Seal the lid and set to High Pressure for 25 minutes for a 3-4 pound ham. Allow a natural release for 10 minutes before quick-releasing remaining pressure.
  5. Preheat oven broiler or heat a cast-iron skillet on medium-high. Brush the ham generously with 2 tablespoons melted butter, then coat with the prepared glaze.
  6. Place under broiler or sear in skillet for about 3-5 minutes until the glaze bubbles and caramelizes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  7. Let the ham rest for 5 minutes before slicing further or serving.

Notes

Use a silicone basting brush for even glaze application and easy cleaning. Watch the glaze closely under the broiler to prevent burning. Natural pressure release keeps the ham juicy. Score the rind to help glaze seep in. For dairy-free, substitute butter with coconut or olive oil. For gluten-free, verify condiments.

Nutrition

Keywords: Instant Pot ham, glazed ham, caramelized ham, pressure cooker ham, quick ham recipe, holiday ham, spiral-cut ham