Ah, Christmas ham! It’s more than just a dish; it’s a centerpiece that brings everyone together during the holiday season. The aroma of a perfectly baked ham wafting through the house is like a warm hug, inviting family and friends to gather around the table. What I love about this Christmas ham recipe is its delightful sweet glaze that makes every bite feel like a celebration. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare! You don’t need to be a pro in the kitchen to whip up this beauty. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make this holiday ham the star of your festive feasts for years to come!

Ingredients for Christmas Ham

Before we dive into the joy of preparing our Christmas ham, let’s gather our ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating that mouthwatering flavor you’ll be raving about long after the holidays are over. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 whole ham (about 10 pounds) – This is the star of the show, so look for a good-quality ham.
1 cup packed brown sugar – This adds a rich sweetness that caramelizes beautifully.
1/2 cup honey – Perfect for that sticky glaze that everyone loves.
1/4 cup Dijon mustard – It gives a nice tang that balances the sweetness.
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves – Just a hint of warmth to spice things up!
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds a cozy, festive flavor that’s perfect for the season.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper – A little kick to enhance all those sweet flavors.
1 cup apple juice – This keeps the ham moist and adds another layer of sweetness.

Trust me, with these ingredients, your Christmas ham will not only taste amazing but will also look stunning on your holiday table! Let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare Christmas Ham

Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s dive into preparing this glorious Christmas ham! I promise, the steps are straightforward, and the results will have everyone asking for seconds. So, grab your apron, and let’s get started!

Preheat the Oven

First things first—preheating your oven is crucial! Set it to 325°F (160°C). This ensures your ham cooks evenly and the sugars in the glaze caramelize perfectly. Trust me, there’s nothing worse than a ham that’s unevenly cooked. While the oven heats up, you can start prepping the ham!

Score the Ham

Next, let’s score the surface of the ham. Use a sharp knife to create shallow cuts in a diamond pattern across the top. This isn’t just for looks; it helps the glaze seep into the meat, enhancing the flavor beautifully. Plus, it gives that lovely caramelized crust we all adore!

Prepare the Glaze

Now onto the fun part—making the glaze! In a mixing bowl, combine the packed brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and black pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is well blended. The result should be a thick, sticky mixture that smells absolutely divine!

Apply the Glaze

Time to spread that glaze over the ham! Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to slather the mixture generously over the scored surface. Make sure to get it into those cuts too! You want every bite to be bursting with flavor. Don’t be shy with it—glaze it up!

Bake the Ham

Place your beautifully glazed ham in a roasting pan and pour the apple juice into the bottom. This will keep the ham moist as it bakes. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil and pop it in the oven. Let it bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Halfway through, remove the foil and baste the ham with the juices from the pan to keep it extra juicy and flavorful. Bake it uncovered for another 30 minutes, so it gets that gorgeous golden finish!

Rest and Slice

Once the baking time is up, it’s time to let the ham rest. This is super important! Take it out of the oven and let it sit for about 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for tender, juicy slices. When you’re ready to serve, slice it up and watch everyone’s eyes light up with joy!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your Christmas ham turns out nothing short of spectacular! Here are my tried-and-true tips that will help you nail this recipe every time:

Adjust Cooking Time: The cooking time can vary based on the size of your ham. As a general rule, you’ll want to bake it for about 15-18 minutes per pound. So, if you’ve got a 10-pound ham like in our recipe, aim for 2 to 2.5 hours. Always check the internal temperature; it should reach 140°F (60°C) for safe eating.
Glaze Like a Pro: For the best glaze, consider adding an extra layer of flavor during the last 30 minutes of baking. Brush on some additional glaze or even a mix of brown sugar and honey for a caramelized finish that your guests will rave about!
Keep it Moist: Adding that cup of apple juice to the roasting pan isn’t just for flavor; it helps keep the ham moist while baking. You can also baste the ham with its juices every 30 minutes to ensure it stays succulent.
Resting is Key: Don’t skip the resting step! Letting the ham sit for 15 minutes after baking is crucial for juicy slices. It gives the meat time to relax and reabsorb its juices, making every bite tender.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to get creative with the glaze! You can add a splash of orange juice, some grated ginger, or even a touch of maple syrup for a unique twist. Just think about what flavors you love best!
Presentation Matters: When it comes time to serve, don’t just slice it up and call it a day. Arrange your slices on a beautiful platter and garnish with fresh herbs or slices of orange for that extra festive touch!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be the star of your holiday gathering, and your Christmas ham will be the talk of the table!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got your stunning Christmas ham ready to shine on the table, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it! The right side dishes can elevate your holiday meal, making it even more memorable. Here are some of my absolute favorites that pair beautifully with that sweet, savory ham:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a classic that complements the richness of the ham. Add a touch of roasted garlic for an extra kick!
Honey Glazed Carrots: These vibrant veggies bring a pop of color and sweetness to the plate. Their natural sugars caramelize perfectly, mirroring the glaze on the ham.
Green Bean Casserole: This hearty dish adds a comforting, creamy element to your meal. The crispy onions on top provide that delightful crunch!
Cranberry Sauce: A tart and tangy cranberry sauce is a must-have for balancing the sweetness of the ham. Plus, it adds a festive touch to your plate!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper, these little guys get crispy and delicious in the oven. They’re the perfect earthy complement to your holiday feast.
Stuffing: Whether you prefer a classic bread stuffing or a wild rice blend, this dish is a great way to soak up those delicious juices from the ham.
Sweet Potato Casserole: Topped with marshmallows or a crunchy pecan streusel, sweet potato casserole adds a delightful sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the ham.

Don’t forget to serve some warm, crusty bread on the side! It’s perfect for mopping up any leftover glaze. With these sides, your Christmas ham will be the star of an unforgettable holiday feast, and your guests will be singing your praises long after the meal is over!

Nutritional Information

It’s always good to be aware of what we’re serving up, especially during the festive season when indulgence is on the menu! Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional information for each slice of this delicious Christmas ham:

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 250
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 15g
Protein: 20g

Keep in mind that these figures are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and the size of your ham. But don’t let the numbers scare you—it’s all about balance and enjoying this special dish with family and friends!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making the perfect Christmas ham? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I hear, along with my tips and answers to help you out:

Can I use a smaller ham?

Absolutely! You can use a smaller ham; just adjust the cooking time accordingly. As a general rule, plan on about 15-18 minutes of cooking time per pound. So, if you go for a 5-pound ham, aim for around 1.5 to 2 hours of baking time. Just make sure the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) for safe eating!

What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?

No problem at all! If you don’t have Dijon mustard on hand, you can substitute it with yellow mustard or even whole grain mustard. Just remember, each type will give a slightly different flavor, but they’ll all work well for glazing your Christmas ham!

How do I store leftovers?

Storing leftovers is super simple! Once your Christmas ham has cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze the leftovers—just cut them into slices, wrap them well, and stash them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight!

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, you can! If you want to save time on the big day, feel free to mix the glaze ingredients a day or two ahead. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. It’ll still be delicious and ready to spread over your Christmas ham!

Can I add other flavors to the glaze?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative! You can add a splash of orange juice, some fresh herbs, or even a bit of bourbon for an extra kick. Just remember to balance the sweetness with the tang or spice so you get that perfect glaze!

What should I do if the ham gets dry?

If you find your ham is drying out while baking, make sure you’re basting it regularly with the juices from the roasting pan. If it’s already cooked and still too dry, serve it with a side of apple sauce or gravy to add moisture and flavor. Trust me, everyone will still love it!

With these FAQs, I hope you feel more confident in tackling your Christmas ham! Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any other questions—I’m here to help you create a holiday feast that everyone will remember!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Preparation: This Christmas ham recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels. You won’t need any fancy techniques—just some simple steps and a little love!
Delicious Flavor: The combination of brown sugar, honey, and spices creates a mouthwatering glaze that caramelizes beautifully, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
Festive Appeal: A beautifully glazed ham is a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table, instantly elevating your Christmas feast and impressing your guests.
Feeds a Crowd: This recipe yields about 12 servings, making it ideal for family gatherings and holiday celebrations. You’ll have plenty to go around, and maybe even some delicious leftovers!
Versatile Dish: Whether you’re serving it as the main attraction or slicing it up for sandwiches the next day, this ham is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the glaze ahead of time, saving you precious minutes on the day of your holiday gathering. It’s all about making your life easier during the busy season!
Tradition and Memories: Making a Christmas ham can become a cherished family tradition, creating warm memories that you’ll treasure for years to come.

Christmas Ham: 7 Secrets to a Perfect Holiday Feast

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Halal

Print Recipe

Description

A delicious Christmas ham recipe for your holiday feast.

Ingredients

Scale

1 whole ham (about 10 pounds)
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup apple juice

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern.
In a bowl, mix brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, cloves, cinnamon, and black pepper.
Spread the mixture over the ham.
Place the ham in a roasting pan and add apple juice to the bottom.
Cover with foil and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours.
Remove foil and bake for another 30 minutes, basting occasionally.
Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Adjust cooking time based on ham weight.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
You can glaze the ham during the last 30 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 250
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: christmas ham, holiday ham, baked ham

Spread the love