Glazed Spiral Ham: The Perfect Recipe for Your Holiday Feast

Glazed Spiral Ham is a dish that never fails to impress at any gathering, whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual family dinner. The moment you pull this succulent ham from the oven, the sweet aroma of the glaze fills the air, enticing everyone to gather around the table. This recipe has its roots in traditional holiday celebrations, where ham has long been a centerpiece, symbolizing abundance and joy. What I love most about Glazed Spiral Ham is not just its mouthwatering flavor, but also its tender texture that melts in your mouth. The convenience of serving pre-sliced ham makes it a favorite among busy hosts, allowing you to spend more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this Glazed Spiral Ham, it will become a staple in your culinary repertoire!

Ingredients:

• 1 fully cooked spiral-cut ham (about 8-10 pounds)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup water
• Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme) for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Glaze

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, ground ginger, black pepper, and salt. 2. Pour in the orange juice and water, then stir the mixture well to combine all the ingredients. 3. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. 4. Allow the glaze to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. 5. Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and set it aside to cool slightly.

Preparing the Ham

6. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). 7. While the oven is heating, take the spiral-cut ham out of its packaging and place it in a large roasting pan, cut side down. 8. If the ham comes with a plastic disk on the bottom, make sure to remove it. 9. Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, making shallow cuts about 1 inch apart. This will help the glaze penetrate the meat and create a beautiful caramelized crust.

Applying the Glaze

10. Once the glaze has cooled slightly, use a basting brush to generously coat the surface of the ham with the glaze. 11. Make sure to get the glaze into the scored cuts for maximum flavor. 12. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the glaze for basting during the cooking process.

Cooking the Ham

13. Cover the roasting pan tightly with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in while the ham cooks. 14. Place the ham in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-18 minutes per pound. For an 8-pound ham, this will take approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. 15. After the first hour of cooking, carefully remove the foil and baste the ham with the reserved glaze. 16. Return the ham to the oven uncovered and continue baking. Baste the ham every 30 minutes with the glaze for the best flavor and caramelization.

Checking for Doneness

17. To ensure the ham is heated through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach at least 140°F (60°C) when fully heated. 18. If you prefer a more caramelized exterior, you can increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Resting and Serving

19. Once the ham reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the ham more tender and juicy. 20. After resting, transfer the ham to a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to slice the ham along the spiral cuts, creating beautiful, even slices. 21. Arrange the slices on a serving platter and drizzle any remaining glaze over the top for added flavor. 22. If desired, garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a pop of color and added aroma.

Storing Leftovers

23. If you have any leftovers, allow the ham to cool completely before storing. 24. Wrap the remaining ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. 25. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for longer storage. Enjoy your delicious glazed spiral ham! It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or any special occasion. The sweet and tangy glaze pairs beautifully with the savory ham, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.

Conclusion:

In summary, this glazed spiral ham recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their dining experience, whether it’s for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with the tender, juicy meat, makes it a standout dish that will leave your guests raving. Plus, the beautiful presentation of the spiral slices makes serving a breeze, allowing you to focus on enjoying the moment with your loved ones. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this delicious ham with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. You can also get creative with variations by adding your favorite spices to the glaze or even experimenting with different types of fruit juices for a unique twist. Pineapple, orange, or even apple cider can add a delightful depth of flavor that complements the ham beautifully. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this glazed spiral ham recipe and make it your own. Don’t forget to share your experience with friends and family, and let them know how it turned out! Whether you stick to the original recipe or put your own spin on it, I’m sure you’ll create a memorable dish that will be cherished for years to come. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite of your glazed spiral ham! Print