Christmas Ham: 7 Secrets to Unforgettable Flavor

Name: Christmas Ham: 7 Secrets to Unforgettable Flavor
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 whole ham (10-12 pounds); 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup honey; 1/4 cup Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon ground cloves; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup apple juice

November 19, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Christmas is such a magical time of year, filled with warmth, laughter, and the smell of delicious food wafting through the house. One of my absolute favorite holiday traditions is gathering around the table with family to enjoy a glorious *Christmas ham*. This recipe is my go-to because it’s not just any ham—it’s perfectly glazed, tender, and so packed with flavor that it steals the show every time! I still remember the first time I made it; the smiles and satisfied sighs from my loved ones were priceless. Trust me, this festive centerpiece will make your holiday meals unforgettable, and it’s easier to prepare than you might think!

Ingredients List

1 whole ham (10-12 pounds)
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup apple juice

How to Prepare Christmas Ham

Preheat and Score

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This step is crucial for getting that perfect cook on your ham! While the oven is heating up, grab your ham and place it on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, making shallow cuts about an inch apart. This not only allows the glaze to soak in beautifully but also creates that lovely caramelized crust we all adore. Ooh, it’s going to smell divine!

Prepare the Glaze

Now, let’s make that delicious glaze that’ll take your *Christmas ham* to the next level! In a medium-sized bowl, combine 1 cup of packed brown sugar, 1/2 cup of honey, 1/4 cup of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of ground cloves, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/2 cup of apple juice. Mix it all together until it’s well combined and looks glossy. You can taste it too—just a tiny spoonful, I promise it’ll excite your taste buds!

Apply the Glaze

Next up, it’s time to spread that glorious glaze over your scored ham. Use a spatula or a brush to generously coat the entire surface, making sure to get into those diamond cuts. Don’t be shy with this step! The more glaze, the better the flavor. Wow, just look at that shine!

Bake the Ham

Place the glazed ham in a roasting pan and cover it tightly with foil. This will help keep it moist while it bakes. Pop it into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 2.5 to 3 hours. Here’s the fun part: every 30 minutes, take it out and baste it with the juices that collect in the pan. This keeps the ham juicy and ensures that amazing glaze sticks! About 30 minutes before it’s done, remove the foil to let the glaze caramelize. You’re going to love the golden color it gets!

Rest and Serve

Once the ham is beautifully caramelized and cooked through, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. This resting time is key—it allows the juices to redistribute, so every slice is tender and flavorful. Then, slice it up, serve it on a platter, and watch everyone gather around for a taste of this holiday magic!

Tips for Success

To really wow your guests with this *Christmas ham*, I’ve got a few pro tips that’ll elevate your dish! First off, choose a bone-in ham if you can—it’s packed with flavor and stays juicier during cooking. If you want to mix things up, don’t hesitate to adjust the glaze ingredients to suit your taste. A splash of orange juice or a hint of ginger can add a delightful twist! Also, remember to baste frequently; this helps the glaze stick and adds moisture. And if you can, let the ham sit at room temperature for about an hour before baking—this ensures even cooking. Trust me, little tweaks like these can make a big difference in flavor and presentation!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional data for each serving of this delicious *Christmas ham*. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but this should give you a good idea:

Calories: 350
Fat: 15g
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 800mg
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Fiber: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg

This information is an estimate based on typical values, so feel free to adjust based on your ingredients and portion sizes. Enjoy every bite, knowing it’s a festive treat!

FAQ Section

**How do I store leftover Christmas ham?**

Storing leftover *Christmas ham* is super easy! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh, then place it in an airtight container or a resealable bag. It’ll last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Just slice it up, wrap each piece individually, and store them in a freezer-safe bag. It’ll stay good in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in the oven or microwave. Yum!

Can I use a different glaze?

Absolutely! The beauty of this *Christmas ham* is its versatility! If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try different glaze variations. For a sweet-tart twist, mix in some cranberry sauce or pomegranate juice. If you like a spicy kick, a bit of sriracha or chipotle can be a fun addition. You could even go tropical with a pineapple glaze by swapping some of the apple juice for pineapple juice! Just remember to balance the flavors to complement the ham. The options are endless, and each glaze will give your ham its own unique personality!

**What sides pair well with Christmas ham?**

When it comes to sides, you can’t go wrong! Classic pairings include creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a vibrant green bean casserole. If you want something sweet, honey-glazed carrots or a festive cranberry sauce can complement the savory flavors of the ham beautifully. And let’s not forget about stuffing! A savory stuffing made with herbs and bread is a perfect match. Whatever you choose, these sides will round out your holiday meal, making it a feast to remember!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to prepare, perfect for any skill level
Flavorful glaze that creates a beautiful caramelized crust
Feeds a crowd—great for holiday gatherings and family meals
Can be customized with different glaze variations
Leftovers are just as delicious and versatile

This *Christmas ham* will undoubtedly become a cherished tradition at your holiday table!

Call to Action

I’d love to hear about your experiences with this *Christmas ham*! Have you tried making it for your holiday gatherings? Please leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out for you. If you loved it (which I’m sure you will), consider rating the recipe and sharing it with your friends and family. Sharing delicious food is one of the best parts of the season, and I can’t wait to hear about your festive meals! Happy cooking and enjoy every bite of that glorious ham!