Ah, Christmas ham! It’s not just a dish; it’s a tradition that brings everyone together around the table, filled with laughter and love. I remember the first time I made this incredible ham for my family—my kitchen smelled heavenly as the glaze bubbled away, and I could hardly wait to serve it. The sweet and savory flavors meld perfectly, creating a mouthwatering experience that makes every holiday feel special. There’s just something about that beautiful, golden-brown crust that screams celebration! Trust me, when you slice into this juicy ham, everyone will gather around, eager for a taste. It’s the centerpiece that sparks joy, stories, and togetherness. So let’s dive into this festive recipe that’ll make your holiday gatherings unforgettable!
Ingredients List
For this delicious Christmas ham, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 whole ham (about 10-12 pounds)
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Make sure to gather everything before you start—having your ingredients ready makes the process so much smoother and more enjoyable!
How to Prepare Instructions
Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, let’s get this Christmas ham prepped and baked to perfection! It’s really quite simple, and I promise you’ll love the process as much as the outcome!
Prepping the Ham
First things first, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This is crucial for even cooking, so don’t skip this step! While that’s heating up, let’s prepare the star of the show—the ham. Start by scoring the surface in a diamond pattern; this not only looks beautiful but also allows the glaze to seep in and enhance the flavor. Just use a sharp knife to make shallow cuts, about an inch apart.
Next, grab a mixing bowl and combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir it all together until you have a lovely, thick glaze. Trust me, the smell alone is enough to get everyone in the holiday spirit! Now, take that glaze and generously spread it all over the ham, making sure it gets into those lovely little cuts you just made.
Baking the Ham
Place the ham in a roasting pan and cover it tightly with foil. This will help keep the moisture in and make the ham super tender. Now, pop it in the oven and let it bake for about 2 to 2.5 hours. Don’t forget to baste it with the juices every 30 minutes! This is where the magic happens, as it adds flavor and keeps it juicy.
For the last 30 minutes, remove the foil to allow that glorious glaze to caramelize and turn golden brown. It’ll look stunning and smell even better! Once it’s done, let the ham rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. This resting time is important—it allows the juices to redistribute, making every slice juicy and delicious. And there you have it, your perfect Christmas ham ready to shine at your holiday table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a festive centerpiece that impresses everyone at your holiday gathering.
- Rich, sweet, and savory flavors that create an unforgettable taste experience.
- Simple and straightforward steps make it easy for cooks of all skill levels.
- Perfect for feeding a crowd—this recipe yields about 12 servings!
- The delicious aroma fills your home, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.
- Leftovers are just as delightful and can be used in sandwiches or salads.
- It’s a tradition that brings family and friends together, making memories.
- Versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides, from roasted veggies to mashed potatoes.
Tips for Success
To make sure your Christmas ham turns out absolutely perfect, here are some expert tips I’ve gathered over the years:
- Select the Best Ham: Look for a bone-in ham, as it tends to be juicier and more flavorful. If you can find a ham that’s labeled “natural” or “no added water,” that’s even better for taste!
- Score Carefully: When scoring the ham, make sure to cut just deep enough to penetrate the surface without cutting all the way to the bone. This allows the glaze to seep into the meat beautifully.
- Baste with Love: Remember to baste your ham every 30 minutes! This not only keeps it moist but also enhances the flavor of the glaze. Use a baster or a spoon to drizzle those amazing juices over the top.
- Resting is Key: After pulling your ham from the oven, let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This crucial step ensures that the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making each bite tender and juicy.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to tweak the glaze! Add a splash of orange juice or a hint of maple syrup for a unique twist. The more you experiment, the more you’ll discover your favorite flavor combinations!
With these tips in your pocket, you’ll be well on your way to serving up a Christmas ham that’s not only delicious but also a true showstopper at your holiday feast!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values for this delicious Christmas ham. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes. For a satisfying serving size of one slice, you can expect the following:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 20g
With all that flavor packed into each slice, you can enjoy every bite guilt-free at your holiday gathering!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After your delightful Christmas ham has graced the table and filled everyone’s bellies, you’ll probably have some delicious leftovers to savor! Storing them properly is key to keeping all that flavor intact. Here’s how to do it right:
First, let the ham cool to room temperature before storing. Once it’s cooled, wrap the leftover ham tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. This helps prevent it from drying out and keeps it nice and moist for later. If you have more than you can eat in a few days, you can also slice it into portions to make it easier to reheat later!
Store the wrapped or contained ham in the refrigerator where it will stay fresh for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it! Just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap or foil and put it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen ham can last up to 2 months without losing too much flavor.
When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is simple! If you’re reheating a whole or large piece, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and place the ham in a baking dish. Cover it with foil to retain moisture and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. For smaller slices, you can pop them in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or until they’re heated to your liking. Just be careful not to overdo it, as you don’t want to dry them out!
And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy the festive flavors of your Christmas ham long after the holiday celebrations have ended.
FAQ Section
Here are some common questions folks often have about making the perfect Christmas ham. I’ve got you covered with answers that’ll help you out!
How long do I need to cook the Christmas ham?
For a 10-12 pound ham, you’ll want to bake it for about 2 to 2.5 hours at 325°F (165°C). It’s always a good idea to check the internal temperature, which should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
What should I serve with my Christmas ham?
Oh, the options are endless! I love pairing it with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, and a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with warm, buttery rolls and a tangy cranberry sauce to balance out the flavors.
Can I use a different type of glaze?
Absolutely! While the brown sugar and honey glaze is a classic, feel free to get creative. You could use a maple syrup glaze, add some orange juice and zest for brightness, or even try a spicy mustard glaze for a kick!
How do I know if my ham is cooked properly?
The best way to ensure your ham is cooked perfectly is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the ham (avoiding the bone), and look for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Let it rest before slicing for the juiciest result!
Can I make this Christmas ham ahead of time?
Yes, you can! If you want to prep ahead, you can score the ham and apply the glaze a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, take it out and let it come to room temperature before popping it in the oven.
Equipment List
Before you get started with your Christmas ham, make sure you have the right tools on hand. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious recipe a breeze:
- Roasting pan: A sturdy pan to hold your ham while it bakes.
- Aluminum foil: Perfect for covering the ham, keeping it moist and tender.
- Mixing bowl: To combine your glaze ingredients easily.
- Sharp knife: For scoring the ham and ensuring beautiful presentation.
- Basting brush or spoon: To baste the ham with its juices for extra flavor.
- Meat thermometer: To check that your ham is cooked to perfection.
- Cutting board: For slicing your ham once it’s rested and ready to serve.
Having these essentials ready will make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable—let’s get that ham in the oven!
Print
Christmas Ham: 7 Secrets to a Perfectly Juicy Feast
- Total Time: 3 hours
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and festive Christmas ham recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 whole ham (about 10–12 pounds)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern.
- Mix brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl.
- Spread the mixture over the ham.
- Place the ham in a roasting pan.
- Cover the ham with foil.
- Bake for 2 to 2.5 hours, basting every 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil for the last 30 minutes to brown the glaze.
- Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Choose a bone-in ham for better flavor.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Can be served warm or cold.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 2.5 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: christmas ham, holiday ham, baked ham
