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
Ingredients
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!