If you're looking for a showstopping main dish for the holidays, this Southern Coca-Cola Ham Recipe is it. We're taking a fully cooked ham and turning it into a glazed beauty using Coca-Cola, brown sugar, honey, mustard, and cloves. The result is tender, flavorful, and nostalgic, just like grandma used to make, but with a modern twist.
Updated August 2025: This post has been updated with clearer instructions, improved tips, and FAQs to complement your holiday meal planning. It was originally posted on October 27, 2024.
What You'll Need
- Type of Ham: Fully cooked, bone-in ham (spiral cut or whole).
- Tools: Large roasting pan, medium saucepan, digital thermometer, aluminum foil.
- Skill Level: Easy and beginner-friendly.
Links to Try Next:
👉 Southern Mac and Cheese
👉 Collard Greens with Ham Hocks
👉 Southern Cornbread
See the recipe card below for exact ingredient quantities and instructions.
📖 Recipe
Southern Coca-Cola Ham Recipe
Video
Equipment
- 1 medium size saucepan
- 1 large roasting pan
Ingredients
- 8-10 pound fully cooked bone-in ham
- 2 ½ cups Coca-Cola (regular, not diet)
- 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- ¼ cup grainy or Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon ground cloves (or whole cloves for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat oven to 325°F. Score 8-10 pound ham in a diamond pattern about ¼ inch deep. Place the flat side down in the roasting pan.
- Make the Glaze: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 2 ½ cups Coca-Cola, 1 cup brown sugar, ¼ cup mustard, ¼ cup honey, 2 tablespoons vinegar, and 1 tablespoon cloves. Simmer 15-20 minutes until thickened slightly.
- Glaze and Bake: Pour half the glaze over the ham, making sure it gets into the cuts. Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
- Finish Uncovered: Remove foil for the last 20-30 minutes to allow glaze to caramelize.
- Rest and Serve: Let rest 10-15 minutes before slicing. Serve with the remaining glaze on the side.
Notes
- Garnish with pineapple slices and maraschino cherries for a classic look.
- Baste the ham every 20-30 minutes while baking for extra flavor.
- Don't skip resting, the juices redistribute for the juiciest results.
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How to Store & Reheat
Storage: Cool leftovers to room temperature and wrap tightly. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Wrap in foil and freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Reheat:
- Oven: 325°F for 15-20 minutes per pound.
- Microwave: Slices covered with a damp paper towel, 30-second bursts.
- Stovetop: Sear slices in a buttered skillet for a few minutes per side.
Recipe FAQs
Absolutely! Just adjust the cook time slightly, boneless hams may cook faster.
Dr Pepper, root beer, or any regular (not diet) dark soda will do the trick.
Yes! Bake a day ahead and reheat gently before serving. Add fresh glaze before reheating.
More Soul Food Classics
- Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
- Southern Mac and Cheese
- Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes
- Southern Meatloaf
If you make this Coca-Cola Ham, let me know how it turned out in the comments! Snap a photo and tag @SimplyLakita on Instagram so I can celebrate with you.
💌 From my kitchen to yours, happy cooking!
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