Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
Prepare the Ham:
If the ham is not pre-cooked, ensure it's fully thawed. If it's pre-cooked, check the packaging for specific instructions.
Using a sharp knife, score the ham's surface in a diamond pattern, making cuts about 1/2 inch deep.
Insert Cloves:
In each diamond of the scored ham, insert whole cloves. This not only adds flavor but also creates an attractive presentation.
Prepare the Glaze:
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, pineapple juice, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg.
Stir the mixture continuously until the brown sugar is fully dissolved and the glaze is well combined. Remove from heat.
Glaze the Ham:
Place the ham in a roasting pan, and generously brush the glaze over the entire surface of the ham. Ensure it gets into the scored cuts for maximum flavor.
Bake:
Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven. The general rule is to bake for about 15-20 minutes per pound, but follow the specific instructions on the ham packaging.
Baste:
Every 30 minutes, baste the ham with the pan juices. This helps keep the ham moist and adds layers of flavor.
Final Glaze:
During the last 30 minutes of baking, uncover the ham and brush with another layer of the glaze. This will give the ham a beautiful, caramelized finish.
Check for Doneness:
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
Rest and Serve:
Once done, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute.
Garnish (Optional):
If desired, garnish the ham with pineapple rings and maraschino cherries for a festive touch.
Carve and Enjoy:
Carve slices against the grain, serve, and enjoy your delicious baked ham!