Ham is a versatile and beloved main course that graces many dinner tables during holidays, celebrations, and special occasions. Its savory and slightly sweet flavor profile pairs well with a wide range of side dishes and accompaniments. While savory sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, and rolls are traditional go-to options, selecting the perfect dessert to complement the ham can elevate the dining experience to a whole new level. In this article, we will explore a variety of delectable desserts that harmonize beautifully with ham.
1. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Pineapple and ham are a match made in culinary heaven. The sweetness of the pineapple enhances the savory flavors of the ham, creating a delightful balance on the palate. A classic pineapple upside-down cake, with its caramelized pineapple rings and maraschino cherries atop a moist and buttery cake, is the perfect dessert to serve alongside ham. The fruity goodness of the cake complements the ham’s richness, making it a beloved choice for gatherings and holiday feasts.
2. Honey Glazed Carrot Cake
Carrot cake is a time-honored dessert that features warm spices, grated carrots, and a luscious cream cheese frosting. Its sweetness, combined with the earthy flavor of carrots, pairs remarkably well with the smoky and slightly sweet taste of ham. Adding a drizzle of honey glaze over the carrot cake takes the dessert to the next level, harmonizing beautifully with the ham’s flavors.
3. Maple Pecan Pie
Maple pecan pie is a delectable dessert that perfectly complements ham’s rich and savory profile. The pecans add a delightful crunch, while the maple syrup imparts a warm and cozy sweetness. The combination of flavors is reminiscent of a comforting autumn feast, making it an ideal choice for holiday gatherings or family dinners featuring ham as the star.
4. Brown Sugar Baked Apples
Baked apples are a simple yet elegant dessert that pairs wonderfully with ham. Hollow out the core of apples, fill them with a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter, and bake until tender. The result is a warm and fragrant treat that adds a touch of rustic charm to the meal. The sweetness of the baked apples complements the savory notes of the ham, creating a delightful contrast of flavors.
5. Citrus Pound Cake
A zesty citrus pound cake can be an excellent choice to cut through the richness of ham. The bright and tangy flavors of lemon, orange, or grapefruit in the pound cake provide a refreshing balance to the savory ham. This dessert option is particularly enjoyable during spring and summer gatherings when the vibrant citrus notes bring a burst of freshness to the meal.
6. Apricot Galette
An apricot galette is a rustic and elegant French dessert that pairs wonderfully with ham. The combination of buttery pastry and juicy apricots creates a delightful medley of flavors and textures. The slight tartness of the apricots balances the richness of the ham, making this dessert an excellent choice for a sophisticated and satisfying meal.
7. Cranberry Walnut Tart
Cranberries are not just for the Thanksgiving table; they can also be a wonderful addition to a ham dinner. A cranberry walnut tart showcases the tangy and vibrant flavor of cranberries, while the nutty crunch of walnuts adds a delightful texture. The tartness of the cranberries complements the sweetness of the ham, making this dessert a festive and flavorful choice.
8. Honey Gingerbread
Gingerbread is a beloved dessert with warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves that evoke a feeling of coziness and comfort. Serving a honey gingerbread alongside ham adds a delightful spiced sensation to the meal. The subtle sweetness of honey in the gingerbread harmonizes beautifully with the savory ham, creating a memorable dining experience.
9. Blackberry Cobbler
A blackberry cobbler is a delightful way to end a ham dinner, especially during the warmer months when fresh blackberries are in season. The combination of sweet and juicy blackberries, topped with a buttery and crumbly cobbler crust, is a delightful contrast to the savory ham. Serving the cobbler warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes this dessert to the next level of indulgence.
10. Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
For the chocolate lovers at the table, a molten chocolate lava cake is the ultimate dessert indulgence. Breaking into the cake reveals a gooey and molten center that oozes with luscious chocolate. The richness of the chocolate lava cake pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of ham, creating a divine contrast of tastes and textures.
Conclusion
Pairing the right dessert with ham can elevate your dining experience and leave your guests with lasting impressions. From classic pineapple upside-down cake and honey glazed carrot cake to maple pecan pie and brown sugar baked apples, these desserts are the perfect accompaniments to ham’s savory and slightly sweet flavors. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast, a family gathering, or a special occasion, these delectable desserts are sure to delight your taste buds and create a memorable dining experience. So, next time you serve ham, consider these dessert options to complete your meal with a sweet and satisfying finish.
