Irrestible Cherry Cola Ham With a Spiced Brown Sugar Glaze

Ella Cooks

Irrestible Cherry Cola Ham With a Spiced Brown Sugar Glaze

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If you grew up with cola-baked hams in the 80s or 90s, this Cherry Cola Ham brings that retro magic roaring back but with a glossy, modern twist. The glaze is thick, sticky, and beautifully balanced: dark brown sugar, cherry jam, and a splash of fizzy cola caramelise into a deep mahogany crust. The result is sweet, tangy, and spiced just enough to feel festive without overpowering the ham.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 2 15

Resting Time 20

Servings: 8

Course: Main Course

Calories: 460

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Ham

1 bone-in ham about 8–9 lb (3.5–4 kg)
Whole cloves optional for studding
1 tbsp neutral oil

For the Cherry Cola Glaze

1 cup cola regular, not diet
½ cup cherry jam or preserves
½ cup packed dark brown sugar
2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
½ tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp ground cloves
¼ tsp black pepper
Pinch of cayenne optional for mild heat

For Garnish

Fresh or maraschino cherries
Thyme or rosemary sprigs

Equipment

Large roasting pan with rack
Small saucepan
Basting brush
Meat thermometer
Foil
Serving platter

Method

Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan. If it has a rind, score it in a diamond pattern and stud with cloves if desired. Brush with oil.
Roast uncovered for 1½ hours (10–12 minutes per pound) until heated through.
Make the glaze: Combine cola, cherry jam, brown sugar, honey, mustard, and spices in a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and syrupy.
Strain for smoothness (optional) or leave cherry bits for a rustic look.
Brush the ham generously with glaze. Return to the oven for 30–40 minutes, basting every 10 minutes until deeply glossy and caramelised.
Rest for 20 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh cherries and herbs.

Nutrition

Calories: 460kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 38gFat: 22gSodium: 1250mgSugar: 20g

Notes

Tips & Variations

Swap cherry jam for cranberry jelly for a more tart finish.
Use Dr Pepper or Cherry Coke for extra depth.
Add a splash of bourbon or orange juice to the glaze for a grown-up twist.
For smaller hams (4–5 lb), halve the glaze ingredients and reduce roasting time to about 1½ hours total.

FAQ

Can I use boneless ham?
Yes, just reduce the cooking time slightly since boneless hams heat through faster.

Does the cola really make a difference?
Absolutely. The sugar and acidity in cola help caramelise the glaze beautifully and tenderise the outer layer of the ham.

Can I make the glaze ahead?
Yes, make it up to 3 days ahead and store in the fridge. Reheat gently before brushing over the ham.

Can I use diet cola?
No, it won’t caramelise properly. You need the sugar in regular cola for the glaze to work.

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