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Air Fryer Ham with Butter Brown Sugar Glaze

spiral ham that was cooked in an air fryer

Making Perfect Air Fryer Ham with Butter Brown Sugar Glaze


Prepare to elevate your holiday meal game with this incredible recipe for Air Fryer Ham with Butter Brown Sugar Glaze. Combining the ease of air frying with the delectable flavors of a buttery brown sugar glaze, this dish is sure to be the star of your festive gatherings.



Why This Recipe Shines


Cooking ham in the air fryer not only simplifies the process but also ensures that your ham remains moist and bursting with flavor. What sets this recipe apart is the irresistible brown sugar glaze that adds a sweet and savory twist to the classic holiday ham.



The Essential Ingredients


To embark on this culinary adventure, gather the following ingredients:

  • 3 pounds of ham

  • 1/2 cup of butter

  • 1/3 cup of brown sugar

  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon

  • Basting brush

  • Aluminum foil



A Step-by-Step Guide


Now, let's dive into the step-by-step process of creating this mouthwatering ham:


Step 1: Craft the Glaze

Start by melting 1/2 cup of butter, 1/3 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon in a small saucepan over medium heat until it reaches a simmer. Once ready, set it aside.


Step 2: Prepare the Ham

Place two large sheets of aluminum foil in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are large enough to wrap the ham. Carefully position the 3-pound ham in the center of the foil.


Step 3: Glaze Application

Using a basting brush, generously apply the butter and brown sugar glaze over the top and around the sides of the ham.


Step 4: Air Frying

Cover the ham with the aluminum foil, ensuring a secure seal. Preheat your air fryer to 300 degrees Fahrenheit and air fry the ham for 20 minutes.


Step 5: Glaze Encore

After the initial 20 minutes, carefully remove the ham from the air fryer and apply another layer of the glaze. Reseal the foil and return it to the air fryer for an additional 20 minutes.


Step 6: Final Glaze Touch

Partially uncover the ham by pulling down the aluminum foil and apply a final layer of glaze. Place the basket back into the air fryer, increase the temperature to 380 degrees Fahrenheit, and continue air frying the ham for an additional 3 minutes, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit.


Step 7: Slice and Serve

Once fully cooked, carefully remove the ham from the air fryer basket, slice it, and serve it to your eager guests.


Please note that cooking times may vary depending on your specific air fryer model and the ham's size. Adjust as needed to achieve the desired results.



Storage and Reheating Tips


For any leftover ham, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a tablespoon of water to the bottom of the air fryer basket and reheat the ham at 250 degrees Fahrenheit for 3-5 minutes to ensure it's heated through without losing its moisture.



Frequently Asked Questions


What is the internal temperature of a fully cooked ham? 

A fully cooked ham should reach an internal temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Overcooking can lead to dryness, so monitor it carefully.


Why let the fresh ham sit at room temperature before cooking? 

Allowing the ham to sit at room temperature briefly promotes even cooking throughout the ham.


How long can cooked ham sit out before storing it? 

It's recommended that cooked ham doesn't sit out for more than a couple of hours to maintain food safety.


Savor the delight of Air Fryer Ham with Butter Brown Sugar Glaze, a perfect addition to your holiday feast or any weeknight dinner. With its straightforward preparation and incredible flavors, this dish is bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy the ease of the air fryer method and relish in its deliciousness!


For more delicious Pork options:  Pork Main Page

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