As I unpacked my holiday decorations, the scent of warm spices and sweetness wafted through the air, igniting memories of Christmas gatherings filled with love and laughter. The star of every feast was always the Simple Christmas Glazed Ham, a dish that not only delights the eyes but also the palate. This easy-to-make centerpiece transforms a humble ham into a festive masterpiece with a luscious glaze of brown sugar, honey, and cloves, and trust me, your guests will be raving about it! Not just a showstopper for special occasions, this recipe is perfect for leftovers, turning into scrumptious sandwiches that keep the holiday joy going well beyond the dinner table. Are you ready to elevate your holiday season with this delicious twist on a classic?
Why is this ham recipe a must-try?
Delicious, this Christmas Glazed Ham features a glossy, sticky glaze that envelops the tender meat, providing a flavor explosion of sweetness and spice. Simplicity reigns: With only a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table. Leftover magic: This recipe ensures scrumptious sandwiches that prolong the festivities, making every bite count. Versatile: Feel free to swap honey for maple syrup or add crushed pineapple for exciting variations. And if you’re in the mood for more easy holiday meal ideas, check out our Potato Ham Dinner, a perfect side dish to complement your ham!
Christmas Glazed Ham Ingredients
• Elevate your holiday feast with these essential ingredients!
For the Ham
- Bone-in ham half – This is the flavorful star of your dish, providing moisture and richness, perfect for a Christmas glazed ham.
- Water – Needed to keep the ham from drying out during the roasting process; ensure you maintain the water level.
For the Glaze
- Brown sugar – This sweet ingredient aids in achieving that delightful caramelization on the surface of the ham.
- Honey – Enhances the glaze’s sweet profile and gives it a beautiful texture; consider substituting with agave syrup if preferred.
- Whole grain mustard – Adds a lovely tang that beautifully balances the sweetness of the glaze; Dijon mustard can be a smoother alternative.
- Cloves – These aromatic spices add a warm, festive touch; remember, fresh cloves are best for this recipe.
With these ingredients, you’re set to create a delightful Christmas Glazed Ham that will surely steal the show this holiday season!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Simple Christmas Glazed Ham
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While waiting for the oven to heat, prepare a large roasting dish. Line the dish with aluminum foil for easier cleanup and to help retain moisture while cooking. This step will ensure your Christmas Glazed Ham will be succulent and flavorful throughout the roasting process.
Step 2: Score the Ham
Take your bone-in ham half and place it on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully score shallow diagonal cuts in a diamond pattern across the surface, being cautious not to cut too deep. This scoring not only allows the glaze to penetrate but also creates a visually appealing design that enhances the final presentation of your Christmas Glazed Ham.
Step 3: Insert Cloves
Once your ham is scored, take whole cloves and insert them into the center of each diamond-shaped cut. Press them in gently but securely, ensuring they are evenly distributed across the surface. This will infuse your ham with a warm, aromatic flavor that is especially festive, uplifting the taste of your eventual glaze.
Step 4: Place in Roasting Dish
Carefully transfer the scored ham into your prepared roasting dish. Pour about 1½ cups of water into the bottom of the dish to prevent the ham from drying out during cooking. This moisture is essential for achieving that tender, juicy texture in your holiday centerpiece. Cover the dish loosely with foil and place it in the preheated oven.
Step 5: Initial Roast
Roast the ham in the oven for approximately 20 minutes while keeping an eye on the water level in the dish. You want to make sure the water doesn’t evaporate completely, which could lead to dryness. After 20 minutes, your ham will begin to heat up, releasing delicious aromas that fill your kitchen with the spirit of the holiday.
Step 6: Make the Glaze
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, honey, and whole grain mustard. Stir the mixture until the sugar dissolves completely, and the ingredients meld together, creating a glossy glaze. If you’re opting to include brandy or pineapple juice for extra flavor, add it in now. Remove from heat once combined, and let it cool slightly.
Step 7: Glaze the Ham
After the first roasting period, brush a generous amount of the prepared glaze over the surface of the ham. Return it to the oven and roast for another 20 minutes uncovered. After this period, apply an additional layer of glaze to enhance the flavor and visual appeal of your Christmas Glazed Ham, then roast for another 20 minutes.
Step 8: Continuing to Glaze
Continue this process of glazing every 20-30 minutes, allowing the ham to deeply caramelize. Keep a close watch until the internal temperature reaches 140°F for a perfectly heated ham. The outer layer should develop a rich, glossy caramelization that is both appetizing and festive.
Step 9: Rest the Ham
Once your ham has beautifully caramelized and reached the desired temperature, carefully remove it from the oven. Cover the glazed ham loosely with foil and let it rest for about 15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each slice is tender and juicy when you carve into your Christmas Glazed Ham.
Christmas Glazed Ham Variations & Substitutions
Looking to personalize your Christmas Glazed Ham? Let your creativity shine with these delightful twists that will excite your taste buds.
- Maple Syrup: Swap honey for maple syrup to give your glaze a rich, earthy flavor and a lovely depth.
- Crushed Pineapple: Add crushed pineapple to the glaze for a tropical twist that enhances sweetness with a hint of freshness.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the glaze for a surprising heat that balances the sweetness beautifully. You’ll tantalize your guests’ palates with this unexpected kick!
- Other Mustards: Experiment with spicy brown or honey mustard for varied tanginess, creating a unique taste that complements your ham perfectly.
- Brown Sugar Variations: Use coconut sugar to create a jammy glaze with a hint of caramel flavor, lending a lovely complexity to your dish.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh rosemary or thyme to the glaze while cooking for a fragrant, herby spin that elevates the entire dish.
- Glazed Vegetables: For a complete meal, toss some carrots or Brussels sprouts in the same glaze and roast them alongside your ham for a flavorful side.
- Citrus Zest: Don’t shy away from brightening your glaze with the zest of an orange or lemon! It adds a refreshing zing that balances the other rich flavors beautifully.
And while you’re exploring variations, don’t forget to consider serving your Christmas Glazed Ham alongside a comforting Potato Ham Dinner. This combination will bring your festive table to life, delighting everyone who gathers to celebrate!
Expert Tips for Christmas Glazed Ham
Perfect Glaze Timing: Brush on the glaze during the last 30-45 minutes of roasting to avoid burning and ensure a sticky finish on your Christmas glazed ham.
Score with Care: Make sure to score your ham deeply enough for the glaze to soak in but not too deep, as this can cause it to dry out.
Monitor Internal Temp: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 140°F, especially with pre-cooked ham to ensure it’s safe and perfectly heated.
Water Level Checks: Regularly check and replenish the water level in the roasting dish to prevent the ham from drying out during the cooking process.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different sweeteners, like maple syrup instead of honey, or add crushed pineapple to the glaze for a unique twist.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Glazed Ham preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday hustle! You can score and insert cloves into the ham up to 24 hours in advance, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating to maintain freshness and flavor. The glaze can also be prepared 2-3 days ahead; simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, remove the ham from the fridge and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before roasting. Brush the chilled glaze on the ham and follow the standard roasting instructions for a delicious centerpiece that will still impress your guests, allowing you to enjoy quality time with your family and friends!
What to Serve with Simple Christmas Glazed Ham
Experience the warmth of a festive meal that perfectly complements your holiday gatherings and leaves your guests satisfied.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their rich, buttery texture balances the sweetness of the glazed ham, making every bite heavenly.
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Roasted Vegetables: Tossed in olive oil and herbs, these colorful veggies add vibrant flavor and a hint of freshness to your plate.
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Fresh Cranberry Sauce: The tangy brightness of cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of the ham, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
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Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots provide an attractive contrast to the savory ham and bring a delightful sweetness to your meal.
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Dinner Rolls: Soft, pillowy rolls are perfect for soaking up the delicious glaze and juices from your ham.
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Sparkling Cider: A refreshing drink option, this effervescent choice adds a festive touch and complements the sweet notes of the ham beautifully.
A well-rounded dinner pairing these elements ensures that your Simple Christmas Glazed Ham takes center stage, making your holiday unforgettable!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Glazed Ham
Fridge: Refrigerate leftover Christmas glazed ham in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain its flavor and moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, slice the ham and freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. This method makes reheating quick and convenient!
Reheating: To enjoy your delicious ham again, thaw frozen slices overnight in the fridge, then warm them in the oven at 325°F until heated through for the best results.
Christmas Glazed Ham Recipe FAQs
What type of ham is best for glazing?
Absolutely, a bone-in ham half is ideal! It provides rich flavor and moisture during cooking. However, if time is of the essence or if you have a preference, spiral-cut or pre-cooked ham can also turn out beautifully, as they simplify serving and reduce prep time.
How should I store leftover Christmas glazed ham?
I recommend refrigerating leftover Christmas glazed ham in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This helps maintain its flavor and moisture. If you find you have too much to consume within that timeframe, consider freezing the slices!
Can I freeze Christmas glazed ham?
Yes, you can! For best results, slice the ham before freezing; this allows for easier portioning later. Place the slices in freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you are ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen slices overnight in the fridge before reheating them in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.
What should I do if my ham is drying out?
If your ham appears dry, don’t worry; you can rescue it! First, make sure you keep an eye on the water level in the roasting dish, refilling it as needed to keep moisture. You can also tent the ham with foil during the roasting process if it looks like it’s browning too quickly, ensuring it remains juicy until fully cooked.
Are there any dietary considerations with Christmas glazed ham?
Very! While ham can be part of a balanced diet, be mindful of sodium levels, especially for those with dietary restrictions. For pets, avoid sharing ham, particularly if it’s glazed with sugar or spices. If you have food allergies, double-check the ingredients in your glaze to avoid any unexpected surprises!
Can I use other ingredients for the glaze?
Absolutely, the possibilities are endless! Instead of brown sugar, consider using maple syrup for a different flavor twist. You can also try adding crushed pineapple to the glaze for a fruity touch. Additionally, incorporating spices like ginger or allspice will elevate the flavor profile even more!
Delicious Christmas Glazed Ham That Steals the Show
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a large roasting dish lined with aluminum foil.
- Score shallow diagonal cuts in a diamond pattern across the surface of the ham.
- Insert whole cloves into the center of each diamond cut.
- Transfer the ham to the roasting dish and pour 1½ cups of water into the bottom.
- Roast the ham for about 20 minutes, checking the water level periodically.
- Combine brown sugar, honey, and mustard in a saucepan over medium heat to make the glaze.
- Brush the glaze over the ham after the initial roasting period and roast for another 20 minutes uncovered.
- Continue glazing every 20-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
- Cover the ham with foil and let it rest for about 15 minutes before serving.