A Christmas Ham is a classic holiday dish that brings family and friends together around the table. This recipe is all about a juicy, tender ham that’s glazed to perfection, creating the perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors. Whether it’s served with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad, this ham is guaranteed to be the showstopper of your holiday meal.
Why You’ll Love This Christmas Ham Recipe
- Perfect for Gatherings: The beautiful presentation and rich flavors make this ham a great centerpiece for any festive gathering.
- Sweet and Savory Glaze: A combination of brown sugar, honey, and mustard gives the ham an irresistible caramelized glaze.
- Easy to Prepare: While the ham bakes, you have time to prepare other dishes, making it an easy option for holiday cooking.
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (8-10 lbs)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- Whole cloves (optional, for studding)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ham
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Score the Ham: Place the ham on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Use a sharp knife to score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, making cuts about 1/4 inch deep. If desired, insert whole cloves into the intersections of the diamond pattern for added flavor and a festive look.
2. Make the Glaze
- Combine Glaze Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, pineapple juice, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves. Stir until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Bring it to a gentle simmer, then remove from heat.
3. Glaze and Bake the Ham
- Glaze the Ham: Brush about 1/3 of the glaze over the surface of the ham.
- Bake: Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until heated through (internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C)). Baste the ham with additional glaze every 30 minutes.
- Finish with Extra Glaze: Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes of baking and brush the ham with the remaining glaze. This will allow the glaze to caramelize and form a beautiful, sticky coating.
4. Rest and Serve
- Rest: Once the ham is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices and makes it easier to carve.
- Serve: Slice the ham and serve it warm, garnished with fresh herbs or pineapple slices if desired.
Tips for the Best Christmas Ham
- Choose the Right Ham: A bone-in, fully cooked ham adds flavor and stays moist during baking. Spiral-cut hams are also a great choice for easy serving.
- Score the Ham: Scoring helps the glaze penetrate deeper into the meat, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Baste Often: Basting the ham every 30 minutes helps build up a thick, sticky glaze and keeps the ham juicy.
Variations
- Maple Glaze: Substitute the honey with maple syrup for a different flavor profile that’s equally delicious.
- Spicy Glaze: Add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or hot sauce to the glaze for a sweet and spicy twist.
- Fruit Garnish: Garnish the ham with pineapple rings or sliced oranges for a festive presentation and added sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need to cook a fully cooked ham?
A fully cooked ham only needs to be warmed through before serving. Baking it with a glaze adds extra flavor and gives it that beautiful caramelized finish.
How do I store leftover ham?
Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the ham for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the glaze up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, then reheat gently before using.
What can I serve with Christmas Ham?
Christmas ham pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, scalloped potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. Don’t forget some dinner rolls to soak up any extra glaze!
This Christmas Ham recipe is the perfect centerpiece for your holiday table. With a rich, sweet glaze and a beautifully caramelized crust, it’s a dish that brings everyone together to celebrate. Whether you’re hosting a large holiday gathering or a small family dinner, this ham is sure to impress with its flavor and presentation.
Try this festive recipe and make your holiday meal even more special. Enjoy the warmth, love, and delicious flavors that Christmas brings!
