A beautifully glazed Christmas ham is the star of many holiday feasts, combining rich flavor and visual appeal. From selecting the right ham to creating a mouthwatering glaze, this guide covers everything you need to know to prepare the perfect Christmas ham.

Why Choose Ham for Christmas?

Christmas ham has been a holiday tradition for centuries. Its succulent texture and ability to feed a crowd make it a popular centerpiece for festive dinners. Beyond its taste, ham is incredibly versatile, pairing well with a variety of sides and flavors.

For more inspiration on creating a holiday spread, check out The Ultimate Guide to Pfeffernüsse (Peppernuts) for a sweet, spiced dessert or The Ultimate Guide to Peppermint Bark for an easy-to-make holiday treat.

Ingredients for Christmas Ham

Ham Options:
- Bone-in, boneless, or spiral-cut.
- Cured, smoked, or fresh.
Glaze Ingredients:
- Brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup for sweetness.
- Dijon mustard or spices for tanginess.
- Optional: Pineapple juice, bourbon, or orange zest for a unique twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Choosing Your Ham

Pick a ham based on your preferred flavor and size. Bone-in hams offer richer flavor, while boneless hams are easier to carve.

2. Preparing the Ham

Thaw: Allow frozen ham to thaw in the refrigerator for 4–6 hours per pound.
Trim and Score: Trim excess fat, leaving a thin layer for flavor, and score the surface with a crisscross pattern.

3. Baking the Ham

Preheat the oven to 325°F.
Place the ham on a roasting rack, cut-side down, in a pan filled with water or stock. Cover loosely with foil.
Bake for 15–18 minutes per pound.

4. Applying the Glaze

Mix glaze ingredients in a bowl. Brush the ham generously during the last 30 minutes of baking, increasing the oven temperature to 425°F for a caramelized finish.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

Side Dishes:
- Traditional: Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or green beans.
- Modern: Quinoa salad or maple-glazed Brussels sprouts.
Leftover Ideas:
- Ham and cheese sandwiches.
- Hearty soups or breakfast casseroles.

FAQs About Christmas Ham

How do I keep my ham moist?

Cover with foil during baking and baste frequently with glaze or pan juices.

Can I make my ham ahead of time?

Yes, bake the ham a day before, then reheat in a 275°F oven with additional glaze.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.

A perfectly cooked Christmas ham will leave a lasting impression on your holiday guests. Pair it with sweet treats like peppermint bark or spiced Pfeffernüsse cookies for a well-rounded feast!

The Ultimate Guide to Christmas Ham

Author: M

Print Recipe

Ingredients

Scale

For the Ham:

1 bone-in, boneless, or spiral-cut ham (8–12 lbs)
1 cup water, stock, or apple juice (for the roasting pan)

For the Glaze:

1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
1/4 cup pineapple juice or orange juice
1 tablespoon bourbon (optional, for added depth)

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Ham

If the ham is frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator for 4–6 hours per pound.
Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
Trim excess fat, leaving a thin layer to enhance flavor.
Score the surface of the ham in a crisscross pattern to help the glaze penetrate.

Step 2: Baking the Ham

Place the ham, cut-side down, on a roasting rack in a large pan.
Add 1 cup of water, stock, or apple juice to the pan to keep the ham moist.
Cover loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 15–18 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).

Step 3: Preparing the Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and pineapple or orange juice.
Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens slightly.

Step 4: Glazing the Ham

During the last 30 minutes of baking, remove the foil from the ham.
Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C).
Brush the glaze generously over the ham, ensuring it coats the scored surface.
Return the ham to the oven and bake uncovered, basting with the glaze every 10 minutes, until the glaze caramelizes and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Step 5: Resting and Serving

Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10–15 minutes before carving.
Slice and serve with your favorite holiday sides. Save any remaining glaze for drizzling over slices.

Enjoy your perfectly cooked, succulent Christmas ham!