Few dishes say Christmas quite like a beautifully glazed ham at the center of the holiday table. Juicy, flavorful, and rich with tradition, Christmas ham has been a festive favorite for centuries. Whether baked, smoked, or spiral-cut, it’s a dish that brings families together during the holidays.
Why Christmas Ham is a Holiday Tradition
The tradition of serving ham at Christmas dates back to pre-Christian winter festivals in Europe. Hogs were slaughtered in the fall, and by December the meat was cured and ready to enjoy. Over time, ham became a celebratory dish, especially in countries like the U.S., Australia, and parts of Europe, symbolizing abundance and festivity.
Choosing the Right Ham
When preparing your Christmas feast, the type of ham you buy makes a big difference:
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Bone-In Ham: More flavorful and juicy, ideal for roasting.
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Spiral-Cut Ham: Pre-sliced for easy serving and glazing.
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Smoked Ham: Adds a deeper, savory flavor.
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Uncured/Fresh Ham: Requires more prep but allows for custom seasoning.
The Perfect Glaze
The glaze is what makes Christmas ham truly shine. A sweet, sticky coating balances the salty, smoky meat. Popular glaze ingredients include:
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Brown sugar or honey for sweetness
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Dijon or whole-grain mustard for tang
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Pineapple juice or orange zest for brightness
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Spices like cloves, cinnamon, or ginger for warmth
How to Cook Christmas Ham
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Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
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Score the ham in a diamond pattern to let the glaze soak in.
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Brush with glaze and cover loosely with foil.
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Bake for about 15 minutes per pound, basting every 20–30 minutes.
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Uncover and caramelize the glaze in the final 20 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
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Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or cranberry sauce.
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Leftover ham works beautifully in sandwiches, omelets, soups, or casseroles.
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Serve warm for dinner or chilled for brunch the next day.
Tips for the Best Christmas Ham
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Don’t skip the scoring—it makes the ham look beautiful and helps flavor soak in.
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Use a meat thermometer: internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C).
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Let the ham rest for 10–15 minutes before carving.
Conclusion
Christmas ham is more than just a meal—it’s a holiday tradition that combines rich flavors, history, and togetherness. With the right glaze, cooking method, and serving sides, it can be the showstopper of your holiday feast.
