As I stood in the kitchen, the soulful aroma of roasting ham drifted through the air, instantly transporting me to countless holiday gatherings with friends and family. The star of the show? My Simple Honey-Brown Sugar Christmas Glazed Ham, a recipe that marries tradition with a touch of delicious creativity. This dish not only impresses guests with its beautiful caramelized glaze and savory depth but also promises the joy of leftovers, making perfect sandwiches that extend the holiday spirit into the week ahead. It’s quick to prepare, allowing you more time to savor the laughter and love that fills your home. Ready to make this Christmas memorable? Let’s dive into the details!
Why Is This Ham Recipe So Special?
Simplicity makes this recipe a breeze, perfect for both seasoned chefs and beginners alike. Aromatic spices like cloves and mustard elevate the glaze, filling your kitchen with an irresistible scent. Crowd-pleaser status is guaranteed—everyone will rave about the deliciously caramelized flavor! Versatile options for glazes and sides offer room for personal touches, and who doesn’t love delicious leftovers for sandwiches? If you’re in the mood to explore more holiday treats, check out our guide on Making Christmas Crack or indulge in our Fun Christmas Candy for a festive spread!
Christmas Glazed Ham Ingredients
• These essential ingredients will create a festive treat that’s simply irresistible!
For the Ham
- Bone-in Ham Half – The main protein providing delicious flavor and moisture; consider free-range varieties for a more ethical choice.
For the Glaze
- Brown Sugar – The primary sweetener responsible for caramelization; swap for coconut sugar if you prefer a healthier option.
- Honey – Adds sweetness and gloss to your glaze; maple syrup makes an excellent substitute if desired.
- Whole Grain Mustard – Provides a delightful spice and depth to the glaze; Dijon mustard can also be used for a smoother flavor.
- Whole Cloves – Infuses aromatic flavor into the ham; can be omitted if unavailable.
For Roasting
- Water – Essential for maintaining moisture during roasting; adjust based on your ham size to ensure perfect results.
Get ready for a Christmas feast centered around this stunning Christmas glazed ham that’s bound to impress!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Simple Honey-Brown Sugar Christmas Glazed Ham
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for ensuring that your Simple Honey-Brown Sugar Christmas Glazed Ham cooks evenly and reaches the perfect temperature. While the oven heats up, gather your ingredients and prepare for the delightful cooking process ahead.
Step 2: Score the Ham
Carefully place your bone-in ham half on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, score the fat in a diamond pattern, making about 1-inch cuts. This not only allows for better glaze absorption but also gives your ham a beautiful presentation. Insert whole cloves into the scores for that aromatic flavor burst while it cooks.
Step 3: Prepare for Roasting
Transfer the scored ham to a large roasting dish. Pour approximately 1.5 cups of water into the bottom of the dish, ensuring it provides moisture during roasting. This step is vital for keeping your ham juicy and flavorful throughout the cooking process. Position the ham cut-side down for optimal heat distribution.
Step 4: Roast the Ham
Place the roasting dish in the preheated oven and roast the ham for about 20 minutes. Keep an eye on the water level in the dish, as it should gradually evaporate. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, hinting at the delicious Simple Honey-Brown Sugar Christmas Glazed Ham that awaits.
Step 5: Make the Glaze
While your ham roasts, prepare the luscious glaze. In a saucepan over low heat, combine brown sugar, honey, whole grain mustard, and a splash of brandy if desired. Stir continuously until the ingredients are fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth. This glaze will enhance the sweetness and flavor of your Christmas glazed ham beautifully.
Step 6: Brush the Glaze
Once the initial roasting time is complete, carefully brush a generous amount of the glaze over the surface of the ham. Return the ham to the oven and continue roasting, applying the glaze every 20 minutes. Aim for a total roasting time of about 1 hour, or until the ham achieves a gorgeous caramelized finish.
Step 7: Let It Rest
When the ham is beautifully caramelized and glistening, remove it from the oven. Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and allow it to rest for 15 minutes. This resting period lets the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite of your Simple Honey-Brown Sugar Christmas Glazed Ham is tender and flavorful.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
After resting, take a sharp knife and slice the ham into even portions. Serve the succulent slices on a platter, showcasing the golden-brown glaze. This stunning centerpiece not only captivates the eye but also promises a delicious experience that will elevate your festive gathering.
What to Serve with Simple Honey-Brown Sugar Christmas Glazed Ham
Bring your holiday feast to life by pairing your delicious ham with irresistible sides and drinks that enhance the flavors and bring joy to your gathering.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture of mashed potatoes contrasts beautifully with the glazed ham, soaking up any excess sauce for a delightful bite.
- Roasted Root Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like carrots and parsnips add natural sweetness that complements the ham’s glaze, offering colorful charm to your table.
- Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of the ham, providing a refreshing balance that brightens every mouthful.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm dinner rolls are perfect for mopping up glaze, making them the ultimate companion when enjoying the juicy ham.
- Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: Roasted Brussels sprouts with crispy bacon add a nutty flavor that contrasts deliciously with the sweetness of the glaze, elevating your meal.
- Sparkling Cider: A bubbly drink enhances the festive atmosphere, offering a crisp and refreshing note that pairs delightfully with the sweet and savory ham.
- Pumpkin Pie: End your meal on a sweet note with a homemade pumpkin pie, where the warm spices echo the flavors of the holiday season.
- Green Bean Almondine: Tender green beans sautéed with toasted almonds bring a fresh crunch to the plate, providing a lovely contrast to the ham’s texture.
- Apple Crisp: A warm apple crisp for dessert adds a comforting touch, with sweet apples reminiscent of the fruits often used in holiday cheer.
- Mulled Wine: This spiced, warming drink captures the essence of the holiday season and pairs wonderfully with the sweet and savory notes of the Christmas glazed ham.
Expert Tips for Christmas Glazed Ham
- Glaze Timing: Apply the glaze in the last 30-45 minutes to prevent it from burning and losing that beautiful caramelized finish on your Christmas glazed ham.
- Proper Scoring: Ensure you score the fat evenly to allow better penetration of the glaze; this enhances both flavor and visual appeal.
- Moisture Maintenance: Cover the ham with foil during the early roasting steps to keep it moist; uncover only when ready to brush on that tasty glaze.
- Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches at least 140°F for precooked ham. This guarantees a safe and perfectly cooked dish.
- Leftover Ideas: Don’t forget to save leftovers! They make incredible sandwiches; simply layer with your favorite cheese and veggies for a deliciously festive meal.
Christmas Glazed Ham Variations
Feel free to unleash your culinary creativity and make this dish uniquely yours!
- Coconut Sugar: Swap brown sugar for coconut sugar to enjoy a refined sugar alternative with a delightful caramel flavor.
- Tropical Twist: Use pineapple juice in place of alcohol in the glaze for a sweet, fruity addition that enhances the ham’s flavor.
- Dijon Mustard: Substitute whole grain mustard with Dijon mustard for a smoother, less spicy glaze. This will keep the focus on the ham’s sweetness.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze for those who love a bit of heat—this twist complements the sweetness beautifully.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the glaze. Their aromatic notes will elevate your Christmas glazed ham to new culinary heights.
- Apple Cider Glaze: Replace part of the water with apple cider for a tangy flavor that brightens up the overall profile of your ham.
- Maple Syrup: For a deeper sweetness, switch out honey for maple syrup—it adds a unique flavor that will leave your guests asking for more.
- Leftover Variations: After the feast, transform your leftovers into a mouthwatering ham salad or delicious sandwiches, perfect for extending that holiday joy into your week.
For more festive ideas, don’t forget to check out our guide on Making Christmas Crack and savor some Fun Christmas Candy to share with friends and family!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Simple Honey-Brown Sugar Christmas Glazed Ham ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious moments during the holiday rush! You can score the ham and insert cloves up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring the flavors infuse beautifully. Additionally, you can prepare the glaze (brown sugar, honey, and mustard mixture) and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply brush the glaze over the ham and roast as directed. By following these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy a delectable centerpiece that’s just as delicious and impressive, allowing you more time to soak in the festive spirit!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Glazed Ham
Fridge: Keep leftover Christmas glazed ham in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Ensure it’s covered to maintain moisture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the ham portions tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw frozen ham overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through, adding a splash of water to keep it juicy.
Simple Honey-Brown Sugar Christmas Glazed Ham Recipe FAQs
What type of ham should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using a bone-in ham half for maximum flavor and moisture. Free-range options are excellent for a more ethical choice and richer taste. Look for a ham that has a nice color and minimal dark spots, as this indicates freshness.
How should I store leftover Christmas glazed ham?
Very importantly, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Be sure it’s well covered to maintain moisture and flavor. This keeps your delicious holiday dish just as tasty when you decide to enjoy it again!
Can I freeze my Christmas glazed ham leftovers?
Definitely! For longer preservation, wrap the portions tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to guard against freezer burn. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 325°F (163°C) until warmed through.
What should I do if my glaze starts to burn?
If you notice that your glaze is beginning to burn, don’t panic! Simply cover the ham loosely with foil and reduce the oven temperature slightly. It’s essential to apply the glaze only during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking to prevent this from happening again.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free or suitable for food allergies?
Absolutely! You can easily adapt the recipe for dietary restrictions. Use gluten-free mustard and check if your brown sugar or any substitutes are processed in a gluten-free facility. Always verify that the ham does not contain any allergens, especially preservatives if necessary.
How do I know when the ham is fully cooked?
To ensure your Christmas glazed ham is safe to eat, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 140°F (60°C) for precooked hams. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone for an accurate reading.
Irresistible Christmas Glazed Ham for a Festive Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gather your ingredients.
- Score the fat of the ham in a diamond pattern, making 1-inch cuts.
- Transfer the ham to a roasting dish and pour in water.
- Roast the ham for about 20 minutes, checking water levels.
- In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, honey, mustard, and brandy over low heat to make the glaze.
- Brush the glaze over the ham and continue roasting, applying glaze every 20 minutes for about 1 hour.
- Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
- Slice the ham and serve on a platter.
