The air fryer has revolutionized kitchen cooking, proving its versatility beyond just fries and wings. Back in 2016, when I first embraced this appliance for nearly everything, some thought I was a culinary renegade. Fast forward to today, and I’m thrilled to share a recipe that truly showcases the air fryer’s magic: a glazed ham that’s incredibly juicy, wonderfully tender, and caramelized to perfection. Growing up in a Southern kitchen, honey ham was a staple on every holiday table. This taught me exactly what a perfectly cooked ham should taste like – a balance of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors, with a sticky, golden crust. After countless tests and refinements, I’ve perfected this air fryer method, ensuring it delivers that nostalgic taste and texture every single time. This isn’t just another ham recipe; it’s the one you’ll want to revisit for every special occasion, from Thanksgiving to Christmas and beyond. Prepare to impress your family and friends with a holiday centerpiece that’s unbelievably easy and utterly delicious.
Table of Contents
Essential Ingredients for Your Air Fryer Glazed Ham
Crafting the perfect air fryer glazed ham starts with selecting high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that sought-after balance of sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors, as well as the ideal texture. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to create this show-stopping dish, along with some tips for choosing the best options.
- Boneless Fully Cooked Ham: The foundation of our recipe. For most air fryer models, a ham between 3 to 4 pounds is ideal. A 5-pound ham might be too large and could touch the heating element, leading to uneven cooking or burning. Always measure your air fryer basket or tray before purchasing. Opting for a pre-sliced (spiral-cut) ham simplifies the glazing process, as the glaze can penetrate deeper, ensuring every slice is coated with deliciousness. If your ham isn’t pre-sliced, you can easily slice it yourself into manageable sections to ensure it fits and cooks uniformly.
- Honey: This is the heart of our sweet glaze, providing natural sweetness and a beautiful, glossy finish. Honey contributes to the rich caramelization, creating that irresistible sticky crust. Any good quality honey will work perfectly.
- Brown Sugar or Sweetener: Brown sugar adds depth with its molasses notes, complementing the honey beautifully. If you’re managing carbohydrate intake, feel free to substitute with a low-carb brown sugar alternative. The key is to achieve that sweet, rich flavor profile.
- Ground Cinnamon and Cloves: These warm spices are essential for that classic holiday ham flavor. Cinnamon offers a sweet and woody aroma, while ground cloves provide a pungent, aromatic warmth that truly elevates the ham’s savory notes. Together, they create a comforting and festive aroma that will fill your kitchen.
- Cornstarch: Used to thicken the glaze, ensuring it adheres beautifully to the ham and creates that desirable sticky coating. A cornstarch slurry, combined with water, prevents the glaze from being too runny.
- Foil: Aluminum foil is your best friend in this recipe. It helps to wrap the ham, locking in moisture during the initial cooking phase, preventing it from drying out, and allowing the glaze to caramelize without burning.
Why the Air Fryer is Your Secret Weapon for Perfect Glazed Ham
You might be wondering why you should choose an air fryer over a traditional oven for your holiday ham. The answer lies in efficiency, superior texture, and unbeatable flavor. The air fryer excels at creating a crispy, caramelized exterior while keeping the interior incredibly moist and tender. Here’s why it’s a game-changer for glazed ham:
- Speed and Efficiency: An air fryer heats up much faster than a conventional oven, drastically cutting down on preheating and cooking times. This means your delicious holiday ham can be ready in a fraction of the time, freeing up your oven for other side dishes.
- Crispy, Caramelized Crust: The air fryer’s circulating hot air creates an effect similar to deep-frying, but with minimal oil. This results in an incredibly crispy and perfectly caramelized glaze on your ham, a texture that’s often hard to achieve consistently in a standard oven.
- Even Cooking: The compact cooking chamber and powerful convection fan ensure that heat is distributed uniformly around the ham. This means fewer hot spots and more consistent cooking, leading to a perfectly tender ham from edge to edge.
- Moisture Retention: By wrapping the ham in foil for the initial cooking phase, the air fryer effectively steams the ham, locking in its natural juices. This prevents the ham from drying out, a common pitfall with oven-baked hams.
- Perfect for Smaller Gatherings: If you’re hosting a smaller holiday dinner, or simply want to enjoy a delicious ham without cooking a massive cut, the air fryer is ideal for preparing smaller hams (3-5 pounds) without wasting energy on a large oven.
- Minimal Cleanup: Cooking the ham in foil within the air fryer basket makes cleanup a breeze. Less mess means more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing pans.
Embracing the air fryer for your glazed ham means enjoying a less stressful cooking experience and a more delicious outcome. Once you try this method, you might never go back to traditional oven baking for your holiday ham!
Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Air Fryer Honey Glazed Ham
Making a show-stopping honey glazed ham in your air fryer is simpler than you think. Follow these detailed instructions to achieve a succulent, flavorful ham with a perfectly caramelized crust that will have everyone asking for seconds. Detailed measurements and full instructions can also be found in the comprehensive recipe card below.
- Prepare Your Ham for Air Frying: Begin with a boneless, fully cooked ham, ideally weighing between 3 and 4 pounds. This size is generally best suited for most air fryer baskets or trays. If your ham is larger, or a bone-in variety, you might need to slice it into smaller sections to ensure it fits without touching the air fryer’s heating element, which can cause uneven cooking or burning. If you have a pre-sliced (spiral-cut) ham, you’re in luck! This makes the glazing process even easier, as the glaze can seep into every nook and cranny.
- Whip Up the Irresistible Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine your honey, brown sugar (or preferred sweetener), ground cinnamon, and ground cloves with a ¼ cup of water. Place this mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously until the sugar has completely dissolved and the ingredients are well combined. In a separate small bowl, create a cornstarch slurry by whisking together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Add this slurry to the simmering glaze mixture. Continue stirring until the glaze visibly thickens to a syrupy consistency, perfect for coating the ham. Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat.
- Generously Coat the Ham: Lay out a piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil large enough to fully wrap your ham, but still allow you to expose the top later. Place the ham in the center of the foil. Using a cooking brush, generously apply about half of your freshly prepared honey glaze over the entire surface of the ham. If using a pre-sliced ham, make sure to brush the glaze in between the slices to maximize flavor penetration.
- First Air Fryer Session: Carefully wrap the ham tightly in the foil, leaving the very top slightly open to allow for some air circulation during cooking. Place the foil-wrapped ham into your air fryer basket or onto the tray. Set your air fryer to 300°F (150°C) and cook for approximately 10-15 minutes per pound. For a 4-pound ham, this would be around 40-60 minutes. This initial phase gently reheats the ham while locking in moisture.
- Apply the Second Glaze and Caramelize: Once the initial cooking time is complete, carefully open the air fryer. Remove the ham from the foil (and any netting, if applicable). Now, brush the ham generously with the remaining glaze. If your glaze has cooled and become too thick, gently warm it again on the stovetop for a minute or two until it’s gooey and spreadable. Return the glazed ham to the air fryer basket, this time leaving it completely uncovered. Increase the air fryer temperature to 400°F (200°C) and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes. Keep a close eye on it during this stage, as the high heat will rapidly caramelize the glaze, creating that desirable sticky, golden-brown crust.
- Rest and Serve for Optimal Juiciness: Once the ham has reached its beautiful caramelized state, carefully remove it from the air fryer. Transfer it to a cutting board or serving platter and allow it to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the ham, ensuring every slice is incredibly moist and tender. Don’t discard any delicious glaze drippings collected in the foil or air fryer basket; spoon these over the sliced ham for an extra burst of flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your perfectly prepared air fryer honey glazed ham!
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Air Fryer Honey Glazed Ham
This Air Fryer Honey Glazed Ham recipe yields a perfectly juicy, tender, and caramelized ham, making it the ideal centerpiece for any holiday meal. With minimal effort, you’ll achieve incredible flavor and a beautiful golden crust that’s sure to impress.
- Course:
- Dinner, Lunch, Holiday Main
- Cuisine:
- American, Southern
- Keywords:
- air fryer glazed ham, air fryer ham, air fryer Thanksgiving recipes, ham in air fryer, honey glazed ham
- Prep Time:
- 5 minutes
- Cook Time:
- 45 minutes
- Total Time:
- 50 minutes
- Servings:
- 12 servings
- Calories:
- 213 kcal
Author: Brandi Crawford
Ingredients
- 3-4 pounds fully cooked ham (boneless, spiral cut recommended for ease)
- ½ cup honey
- ½ cup brown sugar or sweetener (e.g., erythritol for low-carb)
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ cup water (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry)
- Aluminum foil
Instructions
- Prepare the Glaze: In a medium saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar (or sweetener), ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and ¼ cup water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Thicken the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Add this slurry to the glaze mixture in the saucepan. Stir continuously until the glaze thickens to a rich, syrupy consistency. Remove from heat.
- Glaze the Ham (First Layer): Lay a large piece of aluminum foil on your countertop. Place the fully cooked ham on the foil. Using a cooking brush, generously apply half of the prepared honey glaze over the ham. Ensure the glaze gets into the spiral cuts if using a pre-sliced ham. Wrap the ham tightly in the foil, leaving the very top slightly open.
- Initial Air Frying: Place the foil-wrapped ham in your air fryer basket or tray. Air fry at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes per pound (e.g., a 4-pound ham cooks for 40 minutes). This step reheats the ham and keeps it moist.
- Second Glaze and Caramelization: After the initial cooking, carefully remove the ham from the air fryer. Unwrap the foil and remove any netting from the ham. If the remaining glaze has cooled and solidified, gently warm it on the stovetop until it’s pourable again. Brush the entire ham generously with the rest of the glaze. Return the ham to the air fryer, uncovered this time. Increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and air fry for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the glaze is beautifully caramelized and sticky. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Rest and Serve: Carefully transfer the glazed ham from the air fryer to a cutting board. Let the ham rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and moist ham. Drizzle any extra glaze drippings from the foil or air fryer basket over the sliced ham before serving.
Video
For a visual guide on how to prepare this delicious Air Fryer Honey Glazed Ham, please check our YouTube Channel.
Notes
I utilized a 4-pound ham for this recipe, cooking it for an initial 40 minutes before applying the final glaze for browning. Adjust your cooking time based on the size of your ham; a good rule of thumb is 10 minutes per pound. Spiral cut ham can be used for convenience, just ensure it fits comfortably within your air fryer model.
Recipe Tools Used in this Recipe: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Equipment
- Cosori Air Fryer (7-quart recommended)
- Small saucepan
- Cooking brush
Nutrition (displayed with net carbs)
- Serving:
- 1 serving
- Calories:
- 213 kcal
- Carbohydrates:
- 11g
- Protein:
- 20g
- Fat:
- 9g
Disclaimer: Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is typically calculated using third-party tools like MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information for a given recipe, you should calculate it with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.
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Frequently Asked Questions and Pro Tips for Air Fryer Glazed Ham
To help you achieve the most delectable air fryer ham, here are answers to common questions and essential tips:
No, most hams available in grocery stores are sold fully cooked. The process in the air fryer is primarily to reheat the ham thoroughly, infuse it with the rich glaze flavors, and create that beautiful caramelized crust. Always double-check the ham’s packaging to confirm it’s fully cooked before starting the recipe.
Absolutely! This recipe is excellent for meal prep or getting a head start on your holiday cooking. Once cooked, let the ham cool completely, then slice it and store the slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm individual slices in your air fryer for a few minutes at 300°F (150°C), or in a conventional oven. Brushing on a little extra glaze or a spoonful of the collected pan drippings before reheating will help revive its moisture and flavor.
For best results with this recipe, a 5–6 quart basket-style air fryer is generally sufficient for a 3–5 pound boneless ham (either a half ham or a small spiral-cut variety). This size allows for adequate air circulation around the ham, which is crucial for even cooking and caramelization. I personally use and recommend a 7-quart air fryer for its slightly larger capacity, providing more flexibility. Always measure your ham and your air fryer basket before cooking to ensure a proper fit.
While it’s technically possible, bone-in hams are typically much larger and often too big to fit comfortably into most standard air fryer baskets. They also tend to be heavier and more challenging to maneuver. For ease of cooking, fitting, and slicing, boneless hams are highly recommended for air frying. If you only have a bone-in ham, consider slicing it into smaller, more manageable portions before air frying.
Begin by cooking your glazed ham at 300°F (150°C) for the initial reheating phase. This lower temperature ensures the ham warms through gently without drying out. For the final stage, to achieve that beautiful, sticky, and caramelized brown sugar and honey glaze, increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and cook for just 5-10 minutes. This burst of high heat locks in the glaze and creates that irresistible crust.
The cooking time for ham in an air fryer is primarily determined by its weight. A general guideline is 10-15 minutes per pound for a fully cooked ham. For example, a 4-pound ham typically requires around 40 minutes of total air frying time for reheating, plus an additional 5-10 minutes at a higher temperature for caramelizing the glaze. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) for a safely reheated, juicy ham.
The key to a moist air fryer ham is judicious use of aluminum foil. During the initial cooking phase, tightly wrap the ham in foil, leaving only the very top slightly open to allow minimal air circulation while trapping moisture. This creates a steaming effect within the foil package, keeping the ham tender and juicy. Once you apply the final glaze, you can remove the foil to allow the high heat to caramelize the surface without over-drying the interior.
Brown sugar and honey are the classic combination for a reason – they provide a rich, complex sweetness and contribute significantly to the glaze’s sticky, glossy finish. However, if you are looking to reduce carbohydrates, a quality low-carb brown sugar substitute can be used. Be aware that using artificial sweeteners might alter the texture or browning slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious. The honey, in particular, is crucial for that characteristic sheen and stickiness.
While ground cloves add a traditional, warm, and aromatic depth that beautifully complements ham, they are not strictly mandatory if you dislike their flavor. You can certainly omit them if preferred. Alternatively, you can swap them for a little extra cinnamon or a pinch of allspice, or even a touch of nutmeg for a slightly different but still festive flavor profile.
Absolutely! The beauty of a homemade glaze is its customizability. Consider adding a splash of orange juice or apple cider for a fruity tang, a spoonful of Dijon mustard for a savory kick, or even a dash of ginger for an extra layer of spice. Experiment to find your perfect flavor combination!
Serving Suggestions: What to Serve with Air Fryer Honey Glazed Ham
A beautifully glazed ham deserves an equally impressive array of side dishes to create a truly memorable meal. Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or a simple family dinner, these pairings will complement your air fryer honey glazed ham perfectly:
- Classic Southern Comforts: Embrace the rich flavors of the South with dishes like creamy Chicken and Dressing, perfectly seasoned with herbs and savory broth. Pair it with an indulgent Southern Baked Mac and Cheese, featuring layers of gooey cheese and tender pasta. And for a touch of sweetness, don’t forget the luscious Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes, simmered in a sweet syrup until fork-tender.
- Fresh and Vibrant Vegetables: To balance the richness of the ham, light and flavorful vegetable sides are a must. Our Air Fryer Garlic Green Beans are a quick and healthy option, offering a crisp texture and savory garlic notes. Roasted asparagus, brussels sprouts, or a fresh garden salad also make excellent choices.
- Hearty Grains and Breads: Serve your ham alongside fluffy mashed potatoes, a wild rice pilaf, or homemade rolls. Don’t forget a warm slice of Southern Homemade Cornbread to soak up all those delicious ham juices and glaze.
- Tangy Accompaniments: A homemade Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce or a dollop of tangy apple sauce can provide a wonderful counterpoint to the ham’s sweetness, cutting through the richness and brightening the palate.
More Air Fryer Holiday and Thanksgiving Recipes
Maximize your air fryer’s potential this holiday season with these fantastic recipes:
- Air Fryer Roast Beef: Achieve a perfectly tender and juicy roast beef with a crispy exterior.
- Air Fryer Turkey Breast: A fantastic option for smaller gatherings, delivering moist turkey every time.
- Air Fryer Cornish Hens: Elegant individual servings that cook up quickly and beautifully.
- Air Fryer Whole Chicken: Crispy skin and succulent meat, perfect for a family dinner.
- Air Fryer Roasted Asparagus: A simple, healthy, and incredibly flavorful side dish.
Additional Holiday Recipes for Your Feast
Beyond the air fryer, explore these traditional and delicious holiday dishes to complete your festive spread:
- Southern Baked Ham With Pineapple: A classic baked ham with a sweet and tangy pineapple glaze.
- Instant Pot Collard Greens: Tender, flavorful collard greens made effortlessly in the Instant Pot.
- Air Fryer Crab Legs: A luxurious seafood option, cooked to perfection in your air fryer.
- Air Fryer Lamb Chops: Tender and flavorful lamb chops, quick and easy in the air fryer.
Don’t forget to check out our comprehensive post on 20 Quick and Easy Air Fryer Holiday Recipes for even more inspiration!
