Delicious Smoked Pulled Ham with Sweet Apricot Glaze Recipe
Last Updated on March 13, 2026 by Sophie
When the smoker warms up and fills the air with a tantalizing aroma, you know something special is about to happen in the kitchen. I recently discovered the delightful world of smoked meats, and this Smoked Pulled Ham with an Apricot Glaze has quickly become a centerpiece at my gatherings. The sweet and tangy apricot glaze complements the smoky flavor of the ham, creating a dish that feels luxurious yet is surprisingly easy to make.
Picture a leisurely afternoon spent tending to the smoker, knowing that in just a few hours you ll be rewarded with tender, flavorful pulled ham that will have everyone coming back for seconds. The best part? This recipe is designed for those of us who crave home-cooked goodness but are tired of the same mundane meals. It s the perfect antidote to fast food fatigue an easy way to impress family and friends while enjoying a laid-back culinary adventure. So grab your picnic ham and let s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that promises to elevate your meal game!
Why is Smoked Pulled Ham with an Apricot Glaze a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: The smoky essence combined with the sweet apricot glaze brings a unique taste that transforms a humble ham into a gourmet experience.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for gatherings, everyone from kids to adults will return for seconds of this succulent meat.
Effortlessly Impressive: With easy steps and just a few key ingredients, you can wow guests without spending all day in the kitchen.
Time-Saving Delight: Once set in the smoker, this dish allows you to enjoy time with your guests instead of being tethered to the stove.
Versatile Serving Options: Whether served in sandwiches or as a main course, this ham is just as fabulous on its own or adorned with sides.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Leftovers can easily be incorporated into salads, tacos, or pasta for easy meals throughout the week. For more delicious options, don t forget to explore this incredible smoked meat recipe collection.
Smoked Pulled Ham with an Apricot Glaze Ingredients
For the Ham
Whole picnic ham (8-10 pounds) Bone-in hams are ideal for a rich flavor and tender texture.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon) Helps the seasoning adhere and adds moisture to the ham.
For the Seasoning
Hey Grill Hey Sweet Rub (2 tablespoons) This blend enhances the natural sweetness of the ham, making it perfect for the glaze.
For the Glaze
Apricot preserves (1 cup) Provides that luscious sweetness that pairs beautifully with the smoky flavor.
Hey Grill Hey Everything BBQ Sauce (1 cup) A great ketchup-based BBQ option that adds a delightful tang.
For Cooking
Water (1 cup) Keeps the ham juicy during cooking and prevents it from drying out.
With these Smoked Pulled Ham with an Apricot Glaze ingredients, you re well on your way to creating a standout dish that will have everyone savoring every bite!
How to Make Smoked Pulled Ham with an Apricot Glaze
Preheat the smoker to 225 °F. Getting the smoker temperature just right is crucial for that smoky flavor to penetrate the meat perfectly.
Score the ham by placing it meat-side down on a baking sheet. Use a paring knife to make diamond-shaped score marks about 1 inch apart and 1/2 inch deep. This will help the seasoning soak in beautifully!
Drizzle the olive oil over the ham, making sure to coat it evenly. Then, sprinkle the Hey Grill Hey Sweet Rub generously over the surface for that extra layer of flavor.
Transfer the ham onto the grill grates, meat-side down. Close the lid and let it smoke for about 6-7 hours. You re looking for an internal temperature of 165 °F patience is key here!
Combine the apricot preserves and BBQ sauce in a medium saucepan. Heat on medium-high, whisking constantly until the glaze reaches a boil. This will intensify the flavors!
Carefully move the ham to a disposable aluminum pan once it hits 165 °F. Pour 1 cup of water into the bottom of the pan and drizzle the glorious apricot BBQ glaze over the top. Cover it tightly with foil to keep the moisture in.
Increase the smoker s heat (or preheat your oven) to 300 °F. Place the covered ham back on the grates and cook until the internal temperature reaches at least 200 °F, allowing for tender, fall-apart meat.
Remove the ham to a serving board and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. Once rested, shred the ham, discarding any bones or tough pieces, and drizzle with any remaining juices from the pan to keep it moist and flavorful before serving.
Optional: Serve with toasted buns for delightful pulled ham sandwiches!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Smoked Pulled Ham
Choose the Right Ham: Opt for a bone-in picnic ham for richer flavor and tender meat. Avoid pre-cooked hams, as they won t render the same smoky goodness.
Perfect Scoring Technique: Make sure your score marks are deep enough to allow the oil and rub to penetrate the meat. This crucial step enhances the flavor of the smoked pulled ham with an apricot glaze.
Maintain Consistent Temperature: Regularly check your smoker s temperature. Fluctuations can affect cooking time and the quality of the smoke flavor. Aim for steady 225 °F for the best results.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Always rely on an accurate meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Don t rush; your ham won t be tender until it reaches at least 200 °F.
Resting Time is Key: Allow the ham to rest for a minimum of 30 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is succulent and flavorful.
Save the Leftovers: Don t let any ham go to waste! Use leftovers in salads, tacos, or pasta dishes for delicious meals all week long.
Smoked Pulled Ham with an Apricot Glaze Variations
Feel free to explore these fun twists and substitutes, crafting a unique experience tailored to your taste buds!
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalape ±os to the apricot glaze for a delightful heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
Fruit Fusion: Replace apricot preserves with peach or mango preserves to introduce a different fruity flavor profile that s equally delicious.
Herbed Flavor: Incorporate fresh rosemary or thyme into the rub for a fragrant herbaceous note that elevates the smoky undertones.
Maple Glaze: Substitute honey for the apricot preserves to create a rich maple-flavored glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the ham.
Citrus Zest: Adding orange or lemon zest to the glaze gives a refreshing brightness, balancing the sweetness and enhancing the overall flavor.
Tangy Twist: Mix in a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with the BBQ sauce for an extra tang that beautifully cuts the richness of the ham.
Smoky BBQ Sauce: Experiment with a chipotle-flavored BBQ sauce to introduce a smoky depth and a slight spiciness that takes the ham to another level.
Slow-Cooker Version: If you re short on time, consider using a slow cooker instead of a smoker for a more hands-off approach that yields tender results.
How to Store and Freeze Smoked Pulled Ham
Fridge: Store leftover smoked pulled ham in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it s completely cooled before refrigerating to maintain its flavor and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze shredded ham in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Squeeze out excess air to prevent freezer burn and maintain its delicious apricot glaze flavor.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in the oven at 350 °F for 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Add a splash of water to keep it moist during reheating.
Organizing: Label your containers with the date to keep track of freshness, ensuring your smoked pulled ham is enjoyed at its best!
What to Serve with Smoked Pulled Ham with an Apricot Glaze?
Elevate your meal with delightful sides that harmonize beautifully with the smoky sweetness of the ham.
Crispy Coleslaw: This refreshing dish adds a crunchy texture and tangy note, balancing the sweetness of the pulled ham perfectly. It s wonderful for soaking up the delicious juices!
Buttery Cornbread: A warm slice of cornbread offers a comforting, slightly sweet counterpart that complements the savory flavors of the ham, making each bite even more indulgent.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and velvety, these mashed potatoes provide a sumptuous base for your pulled ham. A dollop of gravy over it transforms your plate into a hearty feast.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus adds a pop of color and a hint of smokiness that echoes the ham, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.
Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness of these fries beautifully contrasts with the savory ham, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures. They re addictive!
Apple Crisp: For dessert, this classic dish marries sweetness and spice wonderful for wrapping up a meal featuring smoked pulled ham. It leaves your guests wanting more!
Iced Tea or Lemonade: A chilled drink like sweet tea or zesty lemonade cools the palate and provides a refreshing counterpoint to the rich flavors of the ham, rounding out your meal beautifully.
Make Ahead Options
These Smoked Pulled Ham with an Apricot Glaze are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the ham by scoring and seasoning it up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain its moisture and flavor. The apricot glaze can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days just make sure to reheat it before serving to unlock its full sweetness. When you re ready to smoke, simply follow the remaining cooking instructions, and you ll be savoring tender, smoky perfection in no time!
Smoked Pulled Ham with an Apricot Glaze Recipe FAQs
What kind of ham should I use for pulled ham?
I recommend using a bone-in picnic ham, as it provides richer flavor and tenderness. Avoid pre-cooked hams, as they won t absorb the smoky goodness during the cooking process.
How should I store leftover smoked pulled ham?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It s best to ensure the ham is completely cooled before placing it in the refrigerator to maintain its texture and flavor.
Can I freeze smoked pulled ham?
Absolutely! For longer storage, freeze shredded ham in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Make sure to squeeze out excess air to prevent freezer burn, preserving that irresistible apricot glaze flavor.
How do I reheat the smoked pulled ham?
To reheat, thaw the ham in the fridge overnight. Then, warm it in the oven at 350 °F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Adding a splash of water will help keep it moist during the reheating process.
What should I do if my ham isn t shredding easily?
If your smoked pulled ham isn t shredding well, it might not have reached the optimal internal temperature. Ensure it cooked to at least 200 °F for that tender, fall-apart texture. A good meat thermometer is your best friend here!
Are there any dietary considerations for the smoked pulled ham?
Yes, this recipe contains ingredients that could be problematic for some, like refined sugars and preservatives in the barbecue sauce. Always check labels for allergens. If serving to pets, remember that ham should be given in moderation and may not be suitable for certain pets.