Name: Irresistibly Delicious Christmas Glazed Ham Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 90 min
Total time: 120 min
Ingredients: 1 bone-in ham half Bone-in ham half (Opt for free-range for richer taste.); 1.5 cups Water (Keeps ham juicy during roasting.); 1 cup Brown sugar (Can be substituted with coconut sugar.); 0.5 cups Honey (Acts as the primary sweetener.); 0.25 cups Whole grain mustard (Can replace with Dijon mustard.); 8 pieces Cloves (Optional for flavor.); 0.5 cups Brandy (Adds complexity; can be replaced.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the unmistakable scent of warm spices wafted through the air, instantly transforming my home into a holiday haven. The star of this culinary celebration? A Simple Christmas Glazed Ham that marries the sweetness of brown sugar with the rich essence of honey, creating a deliciously caramelized crust. This festive dish not only serves as a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table but also offers the incredible perk of delicious leftovers, perfect for hearty sandwiches or quick meals in the days that follow. With just a few simple steps, you can elevate your holiday cooking and impress family and friends alike. What festive flavors will you savor as you create this unforgettable Christmas Glazed Ham?

Why is this ham recipe a must-try?

Simplicity: Preparing this Christmas Glazed Ham is a breeze with just a few steps, making it perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks alike.
Irresistible Flavor: The delectable blend of brown sugar and honey, combined with aromatic spices, creates a mouthwatering taste that will have your guests raving.
Leftover Magic: After the festivities, enjoy delightful leftovers for sandwiches or salads, ensuring every bite feels like a holiday treat. Consider pairing it with some roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes from my Potato Ham Dinner recipe for a complete meal.
Impressive Presentation: With its golden-brown glaze and shiny surface, this ham truly shines as the centerpiece of your holiday table.
Versatility: You can easily swap out ingredients like mustard or sugar, allowing you to customize the flavor to your liking!

Christmas Glazed Ham Ingredients

• You’ll need these essential ingredients to create your perfect Christmas glazed ham that’s sure to impress!

For the Ham

Bone-in ham half – A flavor-packed choice that stays moist while roasting; opt for free-range for a richer taste.
Water – Keeps your ham juicy during the roast, preventing it from drying out.

For the Glaze

Brown sugar – Adds sweetness and a beautiful caramelization; can be substituted with coconut sugar for a unique twist.
Honey/maple syrup/marmalade – Acts as the primary sweetener, enhancing the glaze’s richness; agave syrup works in a pinch.
Whole grain mustard – Contributes tangy depth; feel free to replace it with Dijon mustard for a smoother flavor.
Cloves – These warm spices boost the overall flavor; you can omit them if you prefer a milder taste.
Brandy/rum/pineapple juice – Adds complexity to the glaze; apple cider is a non-alcoholic alternative if desired.

Each of these ingredients plays a crucial role in crafting your unforgettable Christmas glazed ham, making it a holiday favorite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Glazed Ham

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature creates the perfect environment for your Christmas Glazed Ham to roast evenly. While the oven warms up, gather your roasting dish and a meat thermometer, as you’ll need these tools to ensure your ham comes out perfectly cooked.

Step 2: Score the Ham
Next, take your bone-in ham half and place it on a clean cutting board. Using a sharp knife, score the fat in a crisscross pattern, creating shallow cuts that will help the glaze penetrate beautifully. If you’re using cloves, now is the time to insert them into the cuts, adding a lovely aroma to your Christmas Glazed Ham.

Step 3: Prepare the Roasting Dish
Transfer the scored ham into a roasting dish, ensuring that it fits snugly. Pour 1 ½ cups of water into the bottom of the dish; this will keep your ham moist and prevent it from drying out during roasting. Place the roasting dish in your preheated oven, ready for the next stage.

Step 4: Roast the Ham
Roast the ham for 20 minutes, keeping an eye on the water levels to prevent the dish from drying out. The initial 20 minutes will help the ham begin to heat through and develop that succulent flavor. Enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen as your ham starts to cook.

Step 5: Make the Glaze
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the brown sugar, honey, and whole grain mustard. Stir frequently until the sugar has completely dissolved, creating a smooth glaze. If you’re using brandy, rum, or pineapple juice, add it now and mix well. This glaze will create that mouthwatering finish for your Christmas Glazed Ham.

Step 6: Brush the Glaze
After the first roasting phase, take the ham out of the oven carefully. Using a basting brush, generously apply the homemade glaze over the surface of the ham. Ensure you cover as much of the surface as possible for even caramelization. Return the ham to the oven for an additional 20 minutes, letting it soak in all that delicious flavor.

Step 7: Re-glaze Periodically
Continue roasting the ham, re-glazing it every 20 minutes. This process allows the glaze to build and caramelize beautifully. Roast for a total cooking time of 1 to 1.5 hours or until the ham is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 140°F, ensuring a juicy and flavorful Christmas Glazed Ham.

Step 8: Let it Rest
Once your ham is perfectly caramelized and golden, carefully remove it from the oven. Allow the Christmas Glazed Ham to rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This resting time is crucial for letting the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice remains moist and tender for your holiday feast.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Christmas Glazed Ham in advance is a delightful way to save time during the busy holiday season! You can score the ham and insert the cloves up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to start mingling. Additionally, you can prepare the glaze by combining the brown sugar, honey, and mustard, and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When it’s time to roast, simply brush the glaze over the ham and roast as directed. This method ensures your ham is just as delicious and retains its moisture, freeing you up to enjoy the festivities and gather with loved ones!

What to Serve with Simple Christmas Glazed Ham

Elevate your holiday feast with delightful sides that beautifully complement this festive centerpiece, creating a memorable dining experience.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture and buttery flavor pair perfectly with the sweet and savory notes of the ham, ensuring every bite is pure comfort.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized veggies add a crispy, earthy contrast that enhances the sweet glaze of the ham, making them a delightful accompaniment to each slice.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness from the cranberries cuts through the richness of the ham, creating a harmonious balance of flavors on your holiday plate.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness echoes the ham’s glaze, while their tender crunch brings a lovely pop of color to your table, creating an inviting presentation.
Dinner Rolls: Soft and warm, these golden rolls are perfect for mopping up the delicious juices left on your plate, making each meal feel extra special.
Spiced Apple Cider: Serve this warm drink as a festive accompaniment that unites the sweet and spicy notes of the season, enhancing the entire dining experience with each sip.

Expert Tips for Christmas Glazed Ham

Timing is Key: Apply the glaze during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking to prevent it from burning and ensure a perfect caramelization on your Christmas glazed ham.
Score Carefully: Score the fat properly to allow the glaze to penetrate the meat, enhancing the overall flavor and texture of your ham.
Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 140°F for pre-cooked ham; this ensures it’s perfectly heated throughout.
Moisture Maintenance: Cover the ham with foil during most of the cooking time to retain moisture, preventing it from drying out during roasting.
Rest for Flavor: Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before carving; this helps keep the slices juicy and packed with flavor for a delightful holiday meal.

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Glazed Ham

Fridge: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Be sure to slice the ham for easy access in meals.

Freezer: If you have more leftovers than you can eat, slice the ham and wrap it in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. It will stay good for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your Christmas Glazed Ham later, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a low oven (300°F/150°C) until warmed through, keeping it moist with a splash of water.

Serving Suggestions: Once reheated, consider serving it with some of the same sides that completed your festive meal, such as creamy mashed potatoes or roasted veggies.

Christmas Glazed Ham Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Christmas Glazed Ham, tailoring it to your tastes and dietary needs!

Spiral-Cut Ham: For an effortlessly easy serving experience, opt for a spiral-cut ham that’s already pre-sliced. This way, guests can easily grab a piece without any fuss.
Smoky Flavor Boost: If you’re craving a hint of smokiness, add a splash of liquid smoke to your glaze. It will impart a deeper flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the glaze.
Sweet Spice: Experiment by adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze for a festive twist. These spices will elevate the warmth of the holiday flavor, making your ham even more inviting.
Citrus Burst: Incorporate fresh orange or lemon zest into your glaze for a zesty kick! This brightens up the flavor profile and adds an unexpected freshness to the sweetness.
Maple Syrup Swap: Replace honey with pure maple syrup for a deeper, earthy sweetness. It’s an excellent alternative that complements the glaze while creating a lovely flavor balance.
Dijon Mustard Substitute: If you’re out of whole grain mustard, try a spicy brown mustard for an extra kick, or use honey mustard for added sweetness. Each lends a different flavor dynamic to your glaze.
Vegan Glaze: For a plant-based version, swap the honey with agave syrup and replace the brandy with apple cider or omit it entirely. Your vegan guests will be delighted!
Adding Heat: For those who love a bit of spice, consider adding a dash of cayenne or crushed red pepper to the glaze. It will create a delightful heat that contrasts wonderfully with the ham’s sweetness.

With these variations, your Christmas Glazed Ham can be as unique as your holiday gatherings. And for a delicious side, don’t forget to pair it with my Potato Ham Dinner for an unforgettable feast!

Christmas Glazed Ham Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my ham is good quality?
Look for a bone-in ham half that feels moist and firm, with a fresh aroma. Ideally, go for a free-range option for richer flavor. Check the packaging for any visible blemishes or dark spots that could indicate spoilage.

How should I store leftover Christmas glazed ham?
Absolutely! Once everything’s cooled down, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This will maintain the ham’s flavor and texture, making it perfect for sandwiches or quick meals.

Can I freeze my Christmas glazed ham?
Yes! If you’ve sliced your ham, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently in a low oven to revive its juiciness.

What should I do if my glaze starts to burn?
No worries! If you notice the glaze beginning to burn, simply cover the ham loosely with foil to protect it from direct heat while still allowing it to cook through. This will help keep the glaze intact while finishing the roasting process without losing all that delicious flavor.

Can pets eat glazed ham leftovers?
It’s best not to share glazed ham with your pets. The sweetness and spices used in the glaze, particularly honey, may not be suitable for them. Stick to plain, unseasoned slices for any pet-friendly ham treats.

What if I can’t find cloves?
Very! If cloves are unavailable, you can completely omit them or try adding a hint of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a different warm spice dimension to your glaze. Just remember that the overall flavor will shift slightly, but it’ll still be delicious!