Welcome to a new tradition! This Cola Easter Ham recipe is not just any ham—it’s a culinary adventure that brings together the sweet, savory, and tangy flavors of cola, brown sugar, and pineapple in every succulent bite. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply craving a special meal, this ham is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more. Let’s dive into the details and discover how to create this mouthwatering masterpiece.
Ingredients:
- 1 (8 pound) boneless ham
- 2 cups packed brown sugar
- 1 (12 fluid ounce) can or bottle cola-flavored carbonated beverage
- 1 cup grape juice
- 1 (20 ounce) can sliced pineapple, drained with juice reserved
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham in a large roasting pan.
- Score Ham: Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, making cuts about 1/4-inch deep.
- Prepare Glaze: In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, cola, and grape juice. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the ingredients are well combined.
- Glaze Ham: Pour the glaze over the scored ham, making sure to coat it evenly. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the glaze for basting later.
- Add Pineapple: Arrange the sliced pineapple over the top of the ham, securing them in place with toothpicks if necessary. Pour the reserved pineapple juice over the ham.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil and bake the ham in the preheated oven for 2 hours, or until heated through, basting occasionally with the reserved glaze.
- Uncover and Brown: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the ham is nicely browned and caramelized.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the ham to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with the glazed pineapple slices and enjoy the flavorful feast!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Spices: Enhance the flavor of the glaze by adding spices such as ground cloves, ground cinnamon, or ground ginger for a festive twist.
- Experiment with Fruit: Feel free to experiment with different fruits such as oranges, cherries, or apples in place of pineapple for a unique flavor profile.
- Try Different Colas: While cola is the classic choice for this recipe, you can also try using other flavored sodas such as root beer, ginger ale, or cherry cola for a different twist.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: To make a keto-friendly version of this ham, substitute the brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. Use a diet cola or sugar-free cola in place of regular cola to reduce the carb content. Limit the amount of pineapple and grape juice or omit them entirely to further reduce carbs.
- Low-Carb Version: Similarly, for a low-carb version, use a low-carb sweetener such as stevia or xylitol instead of brown sugar. Choose a diet or sugar-free cola to minimize the carb content. Use fresh pineapple slices or pineapple extract for flavor without added sugars. Adjust the recipe to suit your carb goals while still enjoying the delicious flavors of this ham.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a bone-in ham for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use a bone-in ham if preferred. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the size and type of ham.
Q: Can I make this ham in a slow cooker? A: While this recipe is traditionally baked in the oven, you can adapt it for a slow cooker by following the same instructions and cooking on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until heated through and caramelized.
Q: Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. Simply reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before pouring it over the ham.
Q: What should I do with leftover ham? A: Leftover ham can be used in a variety of recipes, such as sandwiches, salads, soups, or casseroles. It can also be frozen for future use in cooked dishes.
Cola Easter Ham is a true showstopper that’s guaranteed to take center stage at your holiday table. With its tantalizing combination of flavors and easy preparation, it’s the perfect dish to celebrate the joy of Easter with family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, this recipe is sure to impress and delight with its mouthwatering aroma and irresistible taste. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create an Easter feast to remember with this sensational ham!