Dr Pepper Holiday Ham for Two | Cajun 911 Cuisine
This small-batch Dr. Pepper-glazed holiday ham is designed for intimate celebrations. Sweet, savory, and deeply comforting, it combines classic Southern flavors with Cajun sensibility—perfect for couples, caretakers, or anyone who wants a festive holiday meal without leftovers for days.
INGREDIENTS
Ham
2–3 lb fully cooked bone-in or boneless ham
Dr Pepper Glaze
1 cup Dr Pepper
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 Tbsp Dijon or yellow mustard
1/4 tsp ground cloves
1/4 tsp cinnamon
Pinch black pepper
Optional Toppings
Pineapple slices or chunks
Maraschino or fresh cherries
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Prepare the Ham
Preheat oven to 325°F. Place the ham cut-side down in a small roasting dish or baking pan.
2. Make the Dr Pepper Glaze
Combine Dr Pepper, brown sugar, mustard, cloves, cinnamon, and black pepper in a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat until reduced by about half and slightly thickened.
3. Glaze the Ham
Brush the ham generously with the glaze. Add pineapple and cherries around or on top of the ham if using.
4. Bake
Cover loosely with foil and bake for 45–60 minutes, basting every 15 minutes with additional glaze.
5. Finish and Serve
Uncover for the final 10–15 minutes to caramelize the glaze. Rest briefly before slicing.
SERVING IDEAS
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Serve with mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
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Pair with green beans, carrots, or roasted vegetables
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Add cornbread or dinner rolls
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Ideal for Christmas, Easter, or small holiday dinners
NOTES
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This recipe is designed for small households or couples
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Fully cooked ham only needs reheating, not long baking
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Glaze can be made ahead and reheated gently
RECIPE PAIRINGS AND HELPFUL LINKS
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Pair with Southern sides or Cajun holiday vegetables
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Serve alongside small-batch desserts
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