34 Festive Christmas Ham Recipes to Dazzle Your Holiday Table
Elevate your centerpiece with creative glazes and effortless cooking methods.
Whether your family craves the classics, yearns for something new, or you want to make your holiday main course a true centerpiece, these standout Christmas ham recipes will inspire your celebrations. With sweet fruit glazes, bold spices, easy slow-cooker methods, and smoky twists, each recipe delivers crowd-pleasing flavor with minimal fuss. Discover the key techniques, pro tips, and mouthwatering ideas for making this year’s holiday ham unforgettable.
Pineapple-Glazed Ham
A timeless favorite, Pineapple-Glazed Ham is all about simplicity—just five ingredients, with tart pineapple and sweet brown sugar joining forces to caramelize the exterior. This recipe is perfect for those seeking classic comfort and effortless holiday preparation.
- Pineapple rings or crushed pineapple are layered over the ham for a tropical sweetness.
- Brown sugar and pineapple juice create a sticky glaze that bastes the ham as it bakes.
- This ham pairs beautifully with simple sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Orange–Coriander Glazed Ham
For a citrusy spin, the Orange–Coriander Glazed Ham combines earthy coriander seeds, orange marmalade, and peppercorns. The result: a savory-sweet ham with an aromatic depth that makes it a standout centerpiece.
- Use whole coriander seeds and cracked pepper for a vibrant, earthy finish.
- Orange marmalade lends both zest and fruitiness, balancing the savory richness of the ham.
- Serve with herb-roasted carrots or a winter citrus salad for extra brightness.
Bourbon and Cinnamon Glazed Baked Ham
This recipe brings indulgence to the table. Bourbon and cinnamon join forces in a luscious glaze, creating a candy-like crust with spicy undertones. The pairing of smoky bourbon and warming spices sets this ham apart.
- Bourbon adds complexity; cinnamon and brown sugar bring warmth.
- Bake until the glaze bubbles and caramelizes into a crackly, golden shell.
- Perfect for serving with creamy scalloped potatoes or maple-glazed vegetables.
Brown Sugar Beer-Glazed Ham
If you crave bold, rich flavors, try the Brown Sugar Beer-Glazed Ham. This recipe uses brown sugar, cayenne pepper, and coffee beer for a tantalizingly savory-sweet finish.
- Coffee beer brings depth; cayenne adds gentle heat.
- Baste frequently to ensure the beer glaze soaks into every slice.
- Pairs well with roasted root vegetables or a fresh, crunchy slaw.
Baked Ham With Pineapple Brown Sugar Glaze
For true nostalgia, opt for this baked ham with a thick pineapple brown sugar glaze. It’s a crowd-pleaser that features a golden, sticky exterior and juicy, tender meat inside.
- Use crushed pineapple and brown sugar for a caramelized effect.
- Finish with a quick broil to intensify the color and crackle.
- Excellent with classic sides like potato gratin or buttered green beans.
Coca-Cola Glazed Ham
When simplicity counts, Coca-Cola Glazed Ham delivers superb, sweet-savory flavor with just two ingredients: cola and brown sugar. The cola’s caramel notes help tenderize the meat and build a beautifully lacquered crust.
- Coca-Cola intensifies the sweetness and adds a unique depth to the glaze.
- Simply pour the soda over the ham, add the brown sugar, and bake.
- Serve with cornbread or cheese biscuits for a Southern-inspired meal.
Chipotle Pineapple Jerk Glazed Ham
If your guests love a flavor adventure, bring home the heat and spice of the Caribbean with a Chipotle Pineapple Jerk Glazed Ham. This glaze boasts a kick from chipotle, jerk seasoning, and sweet pineapple that mingles with the smoky ham.
- Includes jerk spices (like allspice and thyme), chipotle chiles, and pineapple.
- Rub and marinate well for maximum flavor penetration.
- Best served with coconut rice or black-eyed peas.
Smoked Ham With Brown Sugar Glaze
For those who like a hands-off cooking technique, try a Smoked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze. Cooked low and slow in a smoker, this ham develops rich aroma and a deep mahogany glaze while freeing up oven space for other dishes.
- Make a homemade rub with brown sugar, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Smoke until the exterior is crisp and deeply caramelized.
- Pairs with tangy mustard sauces or creamy potato salad.
Christmas Ham with Cherry Glaze
Break from tradition with a Cherry Glaze that brings tartness and color to your table. The blend of sweet-tart cherries and brown sugar elevates both flavor and presentation.
- Use cherry preserves or fresh cherries simmered with brown sugar.
- Baste often for a sticky, jewel-toned finish.
- Pair with wild rice or a spinach and feta salad.
Slow Cooker Glazed Ham
If you want a juicy ham with almost no kitchen time, choose a Slow Cooker Glazed Ham. Dr. Pepper in the sauce infuses sweet, spicy flavor that penetrates the meat during hours of gentle cooking.
- Combine Dr. Pepper, brown sugar, and mustard for a bold glaze.
- Let the slow cooker do the work—set and forget!
- Finish under the broiler for extra caramelization.
Honey Ham
This Honey Ham is all about easy prep and big flavor. With just ten minutes of prep and a slow bake, honey and brown sugar build a shiny, sweet crust over tender slices.
- Honey caramelizes beautifully, giving each bite a balanced sweetness.
- Perfect for prepping ahead—let the ham rest for juicy slices.
- Pairs with grilled asparagus or buttered rolls.
Glazed Ham
For classic, festive flavor, a Glazed Ham delivers a thick, golden topping of brown sugar and honey. This caramel glaze is a highlight of many traditional holiday tables.
- Brown sugar and honey bubble and crackle into a sweet outer shell.
- Score the fat to help the glaze infuse throughout.
- Serve with cranberry sauce or creamed spinach.
Honey Glazed Ham
For especially juicy results, the Honey Glazed Ham uses a low oven temperature. The gentle heat allows flavors to develop slowly and helps the meat stay succulent.
- Honey and brown sugar form a light, golden glaze.
- Slow roasting at lower temperature keeps the ham moist.
- Ideal with roasted potatoes and autumn vegetables.
Expert Tips for Perfect Christmas Ham
- Scoring: Score the fat in a diamond pattern to help glazes penetrate and to hold cloves or fruit slices in place.
- Glazing: For a shell-like crust, glaze once at the start and again during the last 30 minutes of baking.
- Resting: Let your ham rest 15–30 minutes before carving to keep the juices inside.
- Carving: Use a long, sharp carving knife to cut thin, even slices starting at the shank end.
- Leftovers: Ham stores well wrapped in the fridge for up to one week and freezes easily for future meals.
Best Sides to Serve with Christmas Ham
- Classic scalloped potatoes
- Roasted winter vegetables (carrots, parsnips, Brussels sprouts)
- Creamed spinach or sautéed greens
- Fresh cranberry or cherry sauces
- Pillowy dinner rolls or cornbread muffins
Table: Ham Glaze Ingredient Comparison
| Recipe | Main Glaze Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Pineapple-Glazed | Pineapple, Brown Sugar | Sweet, tangy |
| Bourbon & Cinnamon | Bourbon, Cinnamon, Brown Sugar | Spiced, caramel, smoky |
| Brown Sugar Beer-Glazed | Coffee Beer, Brown Sugar | Earthy, malty |
| Orange-Coriander | Orange Marmalade, Coriander Seeds | Citrusy, fragrant |
| Chipotle Pineapple Jerk | Chipotle, Pineapple, Jerk Spices | Spicy, smoky |
| Coca-Cola Glazed | Coca-Cola, Brown Sugar | Sweet, savory |
| Cherry Glaze | Cherry Preserves, Brown Sugar | Tart, sweet |
| Honey Ham | Honey, Brown Sugar | Sweet, mellow |
| Smoked Ham | Brown Sugar, Homemade Rub | Rich, smoky |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What’s the best type of ham to buy for Christmas?
A: Bone-in, spiral-cut hams are popular for their tenderness and easy carving. Look for cured, smoked options for deep flavor, but any fully cooked ham works well.
Q: How much ham should I serve per person?
A: Plan for ½ to ¾ pound of ham per guest for bone-in hams, and slightly less for boneless (⅓ to ½ pound).
Q: How do I keep my ham from drying out?
A: Always bake ham covered with foil until the last 30 minutes, then glaze uncovered. Baste occasionally and let the ham rest before slicing.
Q: Can I glaze the ham in advance?
A: Yes! Apply your initial glaze before baking, and then brush on more glaze 20–30 minutes before removing from the oven for a sticky finish.
Q: What can I do with leftover Christmas ham?
A: Enjoy leftovers in omelets, pasta dishes, sandwiches, soups, or freeze slices for up to 2 months.
Pro Tips: Make Your Ham a Showstopper
- Presentation: Garnish with fresh herbs, roasted citrus slices, whole cherries, or pineapple rings for festive color.
- Preparation: Soak cured hams in water overnight to remove excess saltiness if required.
- Custom Glazes: Mix and match ingredients—try maple syrup, mustards, or your favorite preserves for personalized flavor.
Recipe Inspiration for Next Christmas
- Try blending maple and chipotle for a smoky-spicy glaze.
- Pair fig preserves and balsamic vinegar for a gourmet twist.
- Swap classic sides for new favorites like root vegetable gratins or pomegranate salads.
Holiday Ham Cooking Timeline
- 1–2 days ahead: Soak or thaw the ham (as needed), prep glaze ingredients.
- Morning of: Score ham, apply the first layer of glaze.
- 2–3 hours before mealtime: Bake or start slow cooker (per recipe instructions), baste occasionally.
- 30 minutes before serving: Brush on final layer of glaze, broil or bake uncovered.
- 15–30 minutes before serving: Rest and carve.
Conclusion
With flavors ranging from sweet and mild to spicy and rich, these Christmas ham recipes are sure to impress your guests and leave lasting memories around the holiday table. Perfect for cooks of any skill level, each recipe emphasizes festive flavors, simple techniques, and showstopping presentation. This holiday season, let your ham shine as the centerpiece of a joyous—and delicious—feast.
References
- https://leitesculinaria.com/5681/recipes-baked-country-ham.html
- https://myownsweetthyme.com/2013/04/my-old-kentucky-country-ham/
- https://www.countryliving.com/food-drinks/g4768/christmas-ham-recipes/
- https://www.southernplate.com/baked-ham/comment-page-1/
- https://www.countryliving.com/food-drinks/a60043360/brown-sugar-bourbon-pineapple-glazed-ham-recipe/
- https://ribbqnews.com/recipe/the-christmas-ham/
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