Few dishes say “Christmas” quite like a beautifully glazed, oven-baked ham. Whether it’s the centerpiece of your holiday feast or served as leftovers in the days following, a well-prepared Christmas ham is a true seasonal delight. In this article, I’ll instruct you how to cook xmas ham perfectly at home and share expert tips for keeping your ham moist and flavorful.
1. How To Cook Xmas Ham
For this recipe, I will use a fully cooked bone-in ham weighing between 7 to 9 pounds. Since the ham is already cooked, the goal is to heat it through gently and add a flavorful glaze.
Ingredients:
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (7–9 pounds)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard or whole grain mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar or pineapple juice
- Whole cloves (optional)
- Aluminum foil
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
Score the ham: Place the ham flat-side down in a large roasting pan. Using a sharp knife, score the surface in a diamond pattern about 1/4 inch deep. If you like, insert whole cloves into the intersections for extra aroma and flavor.
Cover with foil: Tightly cover the ham with aluminum foil to keep it moist.
Bake the ham: Place in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes per pound. For a 9-pound ham, that’s about 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Make the glaze: While the ham is baking, combine brown sugar, mustard, honey/maple syrup, and vinegar/juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened slightly.
Glaze and finish baking:
- After the initial bake, remove the foil and brush the ham generously with glaze.
- Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C).
- Return the ham to the oven uncovered and bake for another 20–30 minutes, basting every 10 minutes, until the glaze is caramelized and slightly sticky.
Rest before serving: Let the ham rest for 15–20 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.
2. Some Variations of Glaze
The glaze is where you can truly personalize your ham. Here are some popular and delicious alternatives:
- Maple-Bourbon Glaze: Replace honey with pure maple syrup and add 2 tablespoons of bourbon for a rich, warm flavor.
- Pineapple-Brown Sugar Glaze: Mix pineapple juice, brown sugar, and a dash of ground cloves for a tropical twist.
- Spicy Mustard-Orange Glaze: Combine orange marmalade, spicy mustard, and a touch of cayenne for a sweet and zesty kick.
- Cranberry-Apple Glaze: Simmer cranberry sauce with apple cider, cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg for a fruity, festive glaze.
Feel free to experiment or combine elements from different glazes to create your signature holiday flavor.
3. Tips for Perfect Xmas Ham
Cooking ham isn’t complicated, but a few tips will ensure it’s juicy, flavorful, and picture-perfect.
Choose the right ham: A bone-in ham not only adds flavor but also makes for a beautiful presentation.
Don’t overcook: Since it’s pre-cooked, the ham only needs to be reheated to 140°F (60°C) internally. Use a meat thermometer to avoid drying it out.
Score the fat: Scoring helps the glaze penetrate the meat and creates that classic ham look.
Glaze in stages: Wait until the last 30 minutes to apply glaze. Adding it too early can lead to burning due to the sugar content.
Resting is essential: Resting after baking helps the juices reabsorb, keeping the meat moist.
4. What to Eat With Xmas Ham
Christmas ham pairs beautifully with a wide variety of side dishes, from comforting classics to bright, fresh contrasts.
Traditional Sides:
- Scalloped Potatoes: Rich, cheesy, and creamy potatoes are a timeless partner.
- Green Bean Casserole: A crunchy, creamy side that’s always a hit.
- Stuffing or Dressing: Sage and onion stuffing adds a savory dimension.
- Dinner Rolls: Use them to mop up glaze or make mini ham sandwiches.
Fresh and Light Options:
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Add bacon or nuts for extra flavor.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness balances the ham’s sweetness.
- Apple-Fennel Salad: A crisp, refreshing side to cut through the richness.
Sweet Additions:
- Candied Yams: Sweet potatoes with marshmallows or pecans are always welcome.
- Fruit Chutneys or Compotes: Apricot, cherry, or fig chutneys elevate the ham.
5. How to Store & Reheat Leftover Xmas Ham
Ham leftovers are a gift that keeps on giving. Proper storage and reheating will preserve flavor and texture for days after the holiday.
Storing Leftovers:
Refrigerate: Store sliced or whole leftover ham in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in foil. Keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freeze: For longer storage, wrap the ham in plastic wrap and then foil, or use a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before using.
Reheating Leftovers:
Oven Method: Place slices in an oven-safe dish with a splash of broth or water, cover with foil, and bake at 300°F (150°C) until heated (about 10–15 minutes).
Microwave: For quick reheating, place slices on a microwave-safe plate with a damp paper towel on top. Microwave in 30-second bursts until warm.
Skillet or Pan: Lightly fry slices in a skillet for crispy edges and a caramelized glaze.
Leftover Ideas:
- Ham Sandwiches: Layer with cheese, mustard, and pickles on crusty bread.
- Ham and Cheese Quiche: Add diced ham to eggs, cheese, and vegetables.
- Ham Fried Rice: Stir-fry leftover rice with ham, veggies, and soy sauce.
- Split Pea Soup: Use the ham bone for a comforting winter soup.
Cooking a Christmas ham is a joyful tradition that brings people together around the table. The combination of sweet glaze, smoky flavor, and tender texture makes it a favorite year after year.
With the oven-baked method, some creative glaze options, and a few simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to serving a holiday masterpiece. Don’t forget to enjoy the leftovers—they’re the gift that keeps on giving!
