This honey baked ham recipe is all about building layers of flavor through multiple glazing steps. The key to success is patience during the glazing process, which creates that signature sweet, caramelized exterior. Don't rush the resting period at the end—it's essential for juicy, tender meat.

1. Step 1: Let ham come to room temperature

   Remove the ham from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 1 hour before baking. This helps the ham cook more evenly.

2. Step 2: Preheat oven

   Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Position an oven rack in the lower third of the oven to accommodate the ham.

3. Step 3: Prepare roasting pan

   Line a large roasting pan with aluminum foil for easier cleanup. Place a roasting rack in the pan and add 1 cup of water to the bottom of the pan to create moisture during baking.

4. Step 4: Score ham and insert cloves

   If using whole cloves, score the ham in a diamond pattern, making cuts about 1/4-inch deep and 1 inch apart. Insert a whole clove at each intersection of the cuts if desired.

5. Step 5: Begin baking ham covered

   Place the ham cut-side down (flat-side down) on the roasting rack. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes.

6. Step 6: Combine glaze ingredients

   While the ham is baking, prepare the glaze. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, ground cloves, nutmeg, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and orange juice.

7. Step 7: Simmer glaze until smooth

   Bring the glaze mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is smooth, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

8. Step 8: Increase oven temperature

   After the initial baking time, remove the ham from the oven and increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Carefully remove the foil covering the ham.

9. Step 9: Apply first layer of glaze

   Brush one-third of the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it in between the slices. Return the ham to the oven, uncovered, and bake for 20 minutes.

10. Step 10: Apply second layer of glaze

    Remove the ham again and brush with another third of the glaze. Return to the oven for another 20 minutes.

11. Step 11: Apply final glaze and finish baking

    Brush the ham with the remaining glaze and return to the oven for a final 15-20 minutes, or until the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) and the glaze is caramelized and slightly crispy.

12. Step 12: Rest ham before serving

    Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

13. Step 13: Transfer to serving platter

    Transfer the ham to a serving platter. If desired, spoon some of the pan juices over the ham or serve them alongside in a gravy boat.

Leftover ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It's delicious cold in sandwiches or reheated gently in the oven covered with foil. The ham bone makes an excellent addition to soups or beans.