Holiday Cherry Glazed Ham

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a roasting pan with foil for easier cleanup and place a rack in the pan.

Prepare the Ham:

Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, about 1/4 inch deep. Place the ham on the rack in the roasting pan, cut side down. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 1 hour.

Make the Cherry Glaze:

In a medium saucepan, combine cherry preserves, black cherries, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, cinnamon, and black pepper. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is thickened and glossy, about 10 minutes.

Glaze the Ham:

After the ham has baked for 1 hour, remove it from the oven and brush generously with the cherry glaze. Reserve some glaze for serving.

Finish Baking:

Return the ham to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 45 minutes to 1 hour, basting with glaze every 15 minutes, until the ham is heated through and the glaze is caramelized. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C).

Rest and Serve:

Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before carving. Serve with additional cherry glaze on the side and pair with your favorite holiday wine.