I could eat this daily and still love it. It's just so awesome.

This Coca Cola glazed ham is a cherished recipe that brings back memories of family gatherings and holiday feasts in the heart of the Midwest. The sweet and sticky glaze, made with the iconic soda, caramelizes beautifully, creating a delightful contrast with the savory ham. It's a dish that has graced our family table for generations, a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness of cooks who knew how to make the most of simple ingredients. Whether you're preparing it for a special occasion or just because, this ham is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, evoking nostalgia and warmth with every bite.

This ham pairs wonderfully with classic Midwestern sides like creamy mashed potatoes, buttery corn on the cob, and a crisp green bean casserole. For a touch of sweetness, consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad or a tangy cranberry relish. Don't forget a basket of warm dinner rolls to soak up that delicious glaze!

Servings: 8-10 servings

1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)
2 cups Coca Cola
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup honey
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

Place the ham in a large roasting pan, flat side down.

In a medium saucepan, combine the Coca Cola, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, cinnamon, and ginger. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.

Pour half of the glaze over the ham, making sure to cover it evenly.

Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake for about 1.5 hours.

Remove the foil and pour the remaining glaze over the ham.

Increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 30-45 minutes, basting occasionally, until the glaze is caramelized and sticky.

Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze. You can also experiment with different types of mustard, such as whole grain or spicy brown, for a unique flavor twist. If you prefer a smokier taste, try using smoked ham instead of the regular bone-in variety. For a more citrusy glaze, add the juice and zest of one orange to the mixture. Remember, the key to a perfect glaze is patience—baste frequently and allow the sugars to caramelize slowly for that perfect sticky texture.