10 Ham Recipes for Christmas Dinner That Glaze to Perfection

When it comes to Christmas dinner, finding the perfect ham recipe can feel like a quest. A beautifully glazed ham as the centerpiece is truly a sight to behold. From the classic honey-glazed to the elegant pomegranate and balsamic version, each recipe has its own special charm. But which one will leave your guests raving? Let’s explore the secrets to achieving a flawless holiday ham.

Classic Honey-Glazed Ham

Classic Honey-Glazed Ham is a timeless dish that graces many Christmas dinner tables. Its sweet and savory notes, combined with the tender texture of the ham, make it a favorite for festive celebrations. The honey glaze, enhanced with a hint of citrus and warm spices, creates a beautiful caramelized finish that adds both flavor and visual appeal. This delicious centerpiece not only satisfies the palate but also fills the kitchen with an inviting aroma, setting the perfect atmosphere for a joyful holiday gathering.

Preparing a Classic Honey-Glazed Ham is an enjoyable and rewarding process that requires attention to detail and a little bit of patience. While the ham itself is the star of the show, the glaze is what sets it apart and makes it a memorable dish. By carefully selecting quality ingredients and following the steps to create a harmonious blend of flavors, you can guarantee that your holiday meal will be a success. This recipe is designed for a serving size of 4-6 people, making it ideal for a small family gathering or an intimate dinner party.

Ingredients:

• 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (approximately 5-7 pounds)
• 1 cup honey
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup whole cloves (for studding the ham)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This guarantees that the ham cooks evenly throughout.
2. Prepare the Ham: Remove any packaging or netting from the ham. Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep. This will allow the glaze to penetrate and infuse the meat with flavor.
3. Stud the Ham: Insert whole cloves into the intersections of the diamond pattern on the ham. This not only adds flavor but also gives a decorative touch to the ham.
4. Make the Glaze: In a medium saucepan, combine the honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, orange juice, cinnamon, ground cloves, and nutmeg. Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
5. Glaze the Ham: Place the ham on a roasting rack in a shallow roasting pan. Brush the ham generously with the prepared glaze, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
6. Bake the Ham: Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
7. Baste Regularly: Every 20-30 minutes, uncover the ham and baste it with additional glaze to keep it moist and flavorful.
8. Finish the Glaze: For the final 15-20 minutes of baking, remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) to allow the glaze to caramelize and create a glossy finish.
9. Rest and Serve: Once the ham is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, guaranteeing a juicy and tender ham.

Extra Tips:

When selecting a ham, opt for a bone-in version as it tends to have more flavor and moisture. Using a roasting rack helps prevent the bottom of the ham from sitting in its own juices, which can make it soggy.

For a more intense glaze flavor, consider preparing it a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld together. Finally, remember to save the ham bone for making a delicious soup or stew after the holiday meal!

Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham

The Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham is a delightful addition to any Christmas dinner table, offering a harmonious blend of sweet, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors. This recipe pairs the rich, succulent taste of ham with a sweet and tangy glaze made from maple syrup and bourbon, creating a luxurious holiday centerpiece.

The glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, providing a glossy finish and a depth of flavor that complements the savory meat. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply looking to impress your family, this maple bourbon glazed ham is bound to be a crowd-pleaser.

Preparing this dish doesn’t require any advanced culinary skills, making it suitable for both novice and experienced cooks. The key is to allow the ham to bake slowly, infusing it with the rich glaze. The result is a perfectly cooked ham that’s tender and juicy on the inside, with a slightly crisp and flavorful exterior.

By following this recipe, you’ll create a dish that not only looks impressive but also tastes divine, guaranteeing your Christmas dinner will be remembered fondly.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 5-6 pound bone-in ham
• 1 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/2 cup bourbon
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Whole cloves (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Ham: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove the ham from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern using a sharp knife, about 1/4 inch deep. This allows the glaze to penetrate the meat. If desired, insert whole cloves into the intersections of the scored lines for extra flavor.
2. Prepare the Glaze: In a medium saucepan, combine the maple syrup, bourbon, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and cayenne pepper. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Apply the Glaze: Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan. Brush a generous amount of the glaze over the ham, making sure it covers all the scored areas and the exposed surface.
4. Bake the Ham: Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Baste the ham with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes to guarantee a deep, rich flavor.
5. Finish and Serve: Remove the foil during the last 20 minutes of baking to allow the glaze to caramelize. Once done, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving. This helps the juices redistribute, assuring a moist and flavorful ham.

Extra Tips:

When selecting a ham, opt for one that’s fully cooked and bone-in for the best flavor. If you prefer a deeper bourbon flavor, you can increase the bourbon amount slightly, but be cautious as it can quickly become overpowering.

For additional sweetness, consider adding a bit more brown sugar to the glaze. If you have leftovers, this ham makes for excellent sandwiches or can be added to a variety of dishes like soups and salads.

Remember to let the ham rest before carving to keep it juicy and tender.

Pineapple and Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

This Pineapple and Brown Sugar Glazed Ham is an exquisite choice for your Christmas dinner. The sweet and tangy glaze isn’t only simple to make but also enhances the natural flavors of the ham, making it the star of your holiday meal.

With minimal effort, you can achieve a beautiful caramelized finish that will impress your family and guests. The combination of pineapple and brown sugar gives the ham a delightful tropical twist, perfect for a festive occasion.

The recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, guaranteeing there’s plenty to go around. By following the instructions below, you’ll create a succulent ham that’s tender on the inside and perfectly glazed on the outside. This dish pairs well with traditional sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad, making it a versatile option for any holiday table.

Ingredients:

• 1 (3-4 pound) bone-in ham
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• Pineapple rings (optional, for garnish)
• Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This will make sure the ham cooks evenly throughout.
2. Prepare the Glaze: In a medium saucepan, combine the pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and ground ginger. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is fully dissolved and the glaze is smooth. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Ham: Place the ham in a roasting pan. Use a sharp knife to score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This will allow the glaze to penetrate more deeply into the meat.
4. Apply the Glaze: Brush a generous amount of the prepared glaze over the entire surface of the ham. Reserve some glaze for basting during cooking.
5. Bake the Ham: Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven. Bake the ham for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Baste the ham with the reserved glaze every 30 minutes to enhance the flavor and maintain moisture.
6. Optional Garnish: About 30 minutes before the ham is done, you can arrange pineapple rings and maraschino cherries on top of the ham for an attractive presentation. Secure them with toothpicks if necessary.
7. Rest and Serve: Once the ham is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, guaranteeing every slice is juicy and flavorful.

Extra Tips:

When selecting your ham, opt for a bone-in variety as it tends to be more flavorful and juicy. If you prefer a more intense glaze flavor, you can let the ham marinate in the glaze overnight before cooking.

Additionally, make sure to use a meat thermometer to accurately check the internal temperature of the ham, which assures it’s cooked perfectly. Don’t skip the basting process; it’s vital for a glossy, deliciously sticky finish.

Enjoy your Pineapple and Brown Sugar Glazed Ham as part of a delightful Christmas feast!

Orange and Clove Spiced Ham

This Orange and Clove Spiced Ham is a delightful centerpiece for your Christmas dinner, combining the aromatic warmth of cloves with the bright, citrusy zing of oranges. It’s the perfect dish to fill your kitchen with festive aromas, and its sweet, spiced glaze creates a deliciously caramelized crust that complements the tender, juicy ham. The combination of these flavors is a timeless classic, making this dish a hit among family and friends.

Ideal for serving 4-6 people, this recipe guarantees that everyone gets a generous slice of holiday cheer. The preparation is straightforward, allowing you to focus on enjoying the festive season with your loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or an intimate dinner, this Orange and Clove Spiced Ham will surely make a memorable addition to your Christmas feast.

Ingredients (serves 4-6):

• 1 (4-5 pound) fully cooked bone-in ham
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon whole cloves
• 1 orange, thinly sliced
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ham: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the ham in a roasting pan, flat side down. Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, taking care not to cut too deeply into the meat.
2. Stud with Cloves: Insert the whole cloves into the intersections of the scored lines on the ham. This not only adds flavor but also gives the ham an appealing, festive look.
3. Make the Glaze: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the orange juice, honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cinnamon, and ground ginger. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer. Reduce the heat and let it thicken slightly for about 5 minutes.
4. Glaze the Ham: Brush the ham generously with the prepared glaze, making sure it gets into the scored lines. Reserve some glaze for basting during cooking.
5. Add Orange Slices: Arrange the thinly sliced orange over the top of the ham, securing them with toothpicks if necessary.
6. Bake the Ham: Cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting the ham with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes.
7. Finish and Serve: Remove the foil for the final 20 minutes of cooking to allow the glaze to caramelize and the oranges to brown slightly. Once done, let the ham rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with the orange slices and pan juices.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, choose a high-quality ham that’s not overly salty. If your ham is particularly salty, you may want to soak it in cold water for a few hours before cooking, changing the water once or twice.

This recipe can also be made with a spiral-cut ham; just reduce the cooking time slightly as these tend to cook faster. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, increase the honey or brown sugar slightly.

Finally, leftover ham can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, and it makes for delicious sandwiches or a hearty addition to soups.

Cranberry and Mustard Glazed Ham

For a festive centerpiece that combines sweet and savory flavors, try this Cranberry and Mustard Glazed Ham recipe. This dish is perfect for a Christmas dinner, offering a succulent ham with a glossy, flavorful glaze that will impress your guests. The tartness of cranberry sauce melds beautifully with the tangy mustard and the sweet hint of brown sugar, creating a glaze that complements the rich, juicy ham.

Whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or a more intimate affair, this dish will certainly become a favorite tradition. This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for a cozy holiday meal. The preparation is straightforward, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of your loved ones rather than being stuck in the kitchen.

The key to this dish is in the glaze, which not only adds flavor but also gives the ham a beautiful, caramelized finish. Here’s how to make this delightful dish:

Ingredients:

• 1 fully cooked, bone-in half ham (about 5-6 pounds)
• 1 cup cranberry sauce (canned or homemade)
• 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). This will guarantee the ham cooks evenly.
2. Prepare the ham: Place the ham on a rack in a shallow roasting pan, flat side down. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern with a sharp knife, making cuts about 1/4 inch deep. This will allow the glaze to penetrate and flavor the meat.
3. Make the glaze: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is smooth and the sugar has dissolved. This should take about 5 minutes.
4. Apply the glaze: Brush a generous amount of the glaze over the scored surface of the ham, making sure it gets into all the cuts. Reserve some glaze for basting later.
5. Roast the ham: Place the ham in the preheated oven and roast for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until heated through. Baste the ham with the reserved glaze every 30 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.
6. Finish and serve: Once the ham is heated through and nicely glazed, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, assuring each slice is juicy and flavorful.

Extra Tips:

When selecting your ham, opt for a fully cooked, bone-in variety for the best flavor and texture. If you prefer a less sweet glaze, you can adjust the amount of brown sugar to taste.

Be sure to keep an eye on the ham as it roasts to prevent the glaze from burning; if it starts to darken too quickly, loosely cover the ham with foil. For an added touch of holiday flair, garnish the serving platter with fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs before presenting the ham to your guests.

Apple Cider and Cinnamon Glazed Ham

When it comes to Christmas dinner, a beautifully glazed ham can easily become the star of the show. The Apple Cider and Cinnamon Glazed Ham is a classic choice that combines the sweet and tangy flavors of apple cider with the warm spiciness of cinnamon. This dish offers a delightful blend of sweetness and savory, with a sticky glaze that enhances the natural flavor of the ham.

Perfect for a festive gathering, this recipe is both impressive and surprisingly straightforward to prepare. The combination of apple cider and cinnamon not only gives the ham a deliciously festive aroma but also creates a glistening caramelized finish that will have your guests enthusiastically reaching for seconds.

With a serving size of 4-6 people, this dish is ideal for a small family gathering or an intimate holiday dinner. Follow this recipe to achieve a perfectly glazed ham that will leave a lasting impression on your holiday table.

Ingredients (serving size: 4-6 people):

• 1 bone-in spiral-cut ham (approximately 4-5 pounds)
• 2 cups apple cider
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon cold water

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Glaze: In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has dissolved completely.
2. Thicken the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Slowly add the slurry to the apple cider mixture, stirring constantly until the glaze thickens slightly. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Remove the glaze from heat and set aside.
3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, cut side down.
4. Apply the Glaze: Using a brush, generously coat the ham with the prepared glaze, making sure to get in between the slices for maximum flavor.
5. Roast the Ham: Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 10-12 minutes per pound, basting with additional glaze every 30 minutes.
6. Final Glaze and Rest: During the last 20 minutes of baking, remove the foil to allow the glaze to caramelize and the edges to slightly crisp. Once done, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.

Extra Tips:

For an even more flavorful experience, consider marinating the ham in apple cider overnight before cooking. This will infuse the meat with additional moisture and enhance the cider’s sweet and tangy profile.

Be sure to keep the ham covered with foil during most of the baking process to prevent it from drying out, and only remove it towards the end. If you have any leftover glaze, serve it as a sauce on the side for extra flavor.

Additionally, if you prefer a deeper caramelization, you can broil the ham for a few minutes after baking, but keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.

Pomegranate and Balsamic Glazed Ham

Celebrate Christmas with a stunning centerpiece dish: Pomegranate and Balsamic Glazed Ham. This dish combines the juicy tenderness of a perfectly cooked ham with the rich, tangy flavors of a pomegranate and balsamic glaze. The glaze adds a delightful sweetness and a shiny finish that makes the ham not only visually appealing but also irresistibly delicious.

Whether you’re hosting a grand family gathering or a small holiday dinner, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.

The process begins with selecting a quality ham, which will be the foundation for this flavorful dish. The glaze, made from pomegranate juice, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and honey, is simmered to perfection before being brushed over the ham. As the ham bakes, the glaze caramelizes, creating a beautiful crust that enhances the ham’s natural flavors.

This recipe is designed for a serving size of 4-6 people, making it perfect for intimate holiday celebrations.

Ingredients (serving size: 4-6 people):

• 1 (4-5 pound) bone-in ham
• 1 cup pomegranate juice
• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This guarantees that your ham will cook evenly.
2. Prepare the Ham: Place the ham on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Use a sharp knife to score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep. This allows the glaze to penetrate the ham.
3. Make the Glaze: In a medium saucepan, combine the pomegranate juice, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and cloves. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes until it thickens slightly.
4. Glaze the Ham: Brush about half of the glaze over the scored surface of the ham. Confirm that the glaze gets into the cuts to maximize flavor.
5. Bake the Ham: Place the ham in the preheated oven and bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Baste the ham with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes to build up a nice, sticky coating.
6. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, guaranteeing a moist and tender ham. Slice and serve with the remaining glaze on the side.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, choose a high-quality, bone-in ham, as this will provide the most flavor. If pomegranate juice isn’t readily available, you can substitute with cranberry juice for a similar taste profile.

When scoring the ham, be careful not to cut too deeply, as this can cause the ham to dry out. Finally, using a meat thermometer is essential to confirm the ham is cooked to the perfect temperature without overcooking.

Enjoy this delightful dish with your favorite holiday sides for a complete festive meal.

Apricot and Dijon Mustard Glazed Ham

The Apricot and Dijon Mustard Glazed Ham is a delightful centerpiece for your Christmas dinner, offering a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The glaze, made with apricot preserves and tangy Dijon mustard, creates a caramelized crust that enhances the natural richness of the ham. This dish isn’t only visually stunning but also incredibly flavorful, making it a favorite among family and friends during the holiday season.

Preparing this ham is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients, yet it’s sure to impress your guests. The apricot glaze’s sweetness pairs beautifully with the mustard’s slight sharpness, creating a mouthwatering combination that complements the tender and juicy ham. Whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or a more intimate dinner, this recipe serves 4-6 people, making it perfect for holiday celebrations.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (5-7 pounds)
• 1 cup apricot preserves
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• Cloves for studding the ham (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This temperature will guarantee the ham cooks evenly without drying out.
2. Prepare the Ham: Place the ham on a large roasting pan lined with aluminum foil. If desired, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern and stud with cloves for added flavor and presentation.
3. Make the Glaze: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the apricot preserves, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and ground ginger. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and the sugar has dissolved, approximately 5 minutes.
4. Apply the Glaze: Brush a liberal amount of the glaze over the entire surface of the ham, making certain it’s well-coated. Reserve some glaze for basting later.
5. Roast the Ham: Place the ham in the preheated oven and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the ham reads 140°F (60°C). Baste the ham with the reserved glaze every 30 minutes to maintain moisture and enhance flavor.
6. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy ham.

Extra Tips: For a more pronounced glaze, broil the ham for the last 5 minutes of cooking, keeping a close watch to prevent burning. You can substitute apricot preserves with peach or pineapple preserves for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a spicier glaze, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze mixture.

Remember to slice the ham against the grain for the most tender pieces. Enjoy your holiday feast with this delightful ham recipe!

Cherry and Chipotle Glazed Ham

Cherry and Chipotle Glazed Ham is an exceptional dish that combines the sweetness of cherries with the smoky warmth of chipotle peppers, creating a perfect harmony of flavors for your Christmas dinner. This recipe will guide you through preparing a deliciously glazed ham that isn’t only a feast for the taste buds but also a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table.

The glaze’s sweetness pairs perfectly with the savory ham, while the chipotle adds a subtle heat that elevates the dish to festive perfection. Ideal for serving 4-6 people, this Cherry and Chipotle Glazed Ham is easy to prepare and will have your guests asking for seconds.

The secret to this dish lies in the balance of flavors in the glaze, which caramelizes beautifully during roasting, creating a glossy, succulent finish. Whether you’re hosting a small family gathering or an intimate dinner with friends, this recipe promises to deliver a memorable dining experience that celebrates the joy and warmth of the holiday season.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 pre-cooked boneless ham, about 4-5 pounds
• 1 cup cherry preserves
• 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This temperature guarantees the ham is warmed through without drying it out.
2. Prepare the Glaze: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherry preserves, chipotle peppers, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and cloves. Stir until the mixture is smooth and the sugar has dissolved completely. Allow the glaze to simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
3. Score the Ham: Place the ham on a roasting rack in a shallow roasting pan. Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This helps the glaze penetrate the ham, infusing it with flavor.
4. Apply the Glaze: Generously brush the prepared glaze over the entire surface of the ham. If desired, set aside a small portion of the glaze for serving.
5. Roast the Ham: Place the ham in the preheated oven and roast for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Baste the ham with additional glaze every 30 minutes to guarantee a rich, glossy coating.
6. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, guaranteeing each slice is tender and flavorful.

Extra Tips: To enhance the smokiness of the chipotle, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the glaze. If you prefer a spicier glaze, you can increase the amount of chipotle peppers according to your taste.

For a smoother glaze, you may strain the mixture before applying it to the ham. Additionally, make sure to cover the ham loosely with foil if it begins to brown too quickly during roasting. This will help keep the glaze from burning while still allowing the ham to warm through properly.

Ginger and Soy Glazed Ham

This Ginger and Soy Glazed Ham is a perfect centerpiece for your Christmas dinner, offering a delightful mix of savory and sweet flavors. The combination of ginger and soy sauce brings a unique Asian-inspired twist to the traditional holiday ham, making it a standout dish on your festive table.

The glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, giving the ham a glossy, appetizing finish that will impress your guests both visually and with its taste. Ideal for serving 4-6 people, this recipe guarantees that each slice of ham is tender and juicy, enhanced by the rich, aromatic glaze.

The preparation is straightforward, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the holiday with loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or a cozy family dinner, this Ginger and Soy Glazed Ham is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients (serving size: 4-6 people):

• 1 (4-5 pound) bone-in ham
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This guarantees that the ham cooks evenly throughout.
2. Prepare the Glaze: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, brown sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and black pepper. Stir the mixture until the sugar is fully dissolved and the ingredients are well combined.
3. Thicken the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the water to form a slurry. Slowly add this slurry to the saucepan while stirring continuously. Allow the glaze to simmer for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Prepare the Ham: Place the ham on a roasting pan, with the flat side down. Use a sharp knife to score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This will allow the glaze to penetrate the meat better.
5. Apply the Glaze: Using a brush, apply a generous amount of the ginger and soy glaze over the ham, making sure to get into the scored crevices. Reserve some glaze for later use.
6. Roast the Ham: Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Roast for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Baste the ham with the reserved glaze every 30 minutes to maintain moisture and enhance flavor.
7. Caramelize the Glaze: For a beautiful caramelized finish, remove the foil during the last 15 minutes of cooking. Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) and allow the glaze to caramelize but keep an eye to prevent burning.
8. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, guaranteeing a tender and juicy ham. Serve with the remaining glaze drizzled on top or on the side.

Extra Tips:

To guarantee the ham remains moist, avoid overcooking by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. If you prefer a spicier glaze, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Additionally, if you have leftovers, this ham makes delicious sandwiches or can be added to soups and salads. When scoring the ham, be careful not to cut too deeply to avoid drying out the meat. Enjoy this flavorful twist on a holiday classic!