20 Festive Christmas Ham Recipes Perfect for the Holidays

‘Tis the season for gathering around the table with loved ones—and nothing says holiday feasting like a beautifully glazed Christmas ham! Whether you’re craving classic honey-glazed perfection, a spicy maple twist, or a fuss-free slow cooker option, we’ve rounded up 20 showstopping recipes to make your festive meal unforgettable. Get ready to impress—your holiday centerpiece is just a scroll away!

Honey Glazed Christmas Ham

This showstopping ham is sweet, sticky, and packed with festive flavor—perfect for your holiday table.

Ingredients:

• 1 (8–10 lb) fully cooked bone-in ham
• 1 cup honey
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Place ham cut-side down in a roasting pan and tent loosely with foil. Bake for 1.5 hours.
2. Meanwhile, whisk together 1 cup honey, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp cinnamon, and 1/2 tsp cloves in a saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
3. Uncover ham and brush with half the glaze. Return to oven, uncovered, for 30 minutes. Brush with remaining glaze and bake 15 more minutes until caramelized.
4. Let rest 15 minutes before slicing. The glaze will form a shiny, crackly crust as it cools.

Tip: Score the ham fat in a diamond pattern before baking for extra crisp edges and better glaze absorption.

Brown Sugar and Mustard Glazed Ham

This sweet and tangy glazed ham is a showstopper for holidays or Sunday dinners—effortless to make but packed with bold flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 (8–10 lb) fully cooked bone-in ham
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Place ham cut-side down in a roasting pan and tent loosely with foil. Bake for 1 hour 30 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, whisk together 1 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp ground cloves, and 1/2 tsp black pepper in a bowl until smooth.
3. Uncover ham and brush half the glaze evenly over the surface. Return to oven, uncovered, for 20 minutes.
4. Brush with remaining glaze and bake another 20–25 minutes until caramelized and sticky. Let rest 15 minutes before slicing.

The glaze forms a glossy, crackly crust that balances the ham’s richness—no basting required!

Tip: Score the ham fat in a crosshatch pattern before baking to help the glaze seep into every nook.

Pineapple and Cherry Studded Ham

This showstopping ham is glazed with sweet-tart pineapple and studded with ruby-red cherries for a festive centerpiece that’s as easy as it is impressive.

Ingredients:

• 1 (8-10 lb) fully cooked spiral-cut ham
• 1 (20 oz) can pineapple rings in juice, drained (reserve ½ cup juice)
• ½ cup maraschino cherries, drained
• ½ cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp ground cloves
• Whole cloves (for studding)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Place ham cut-side down in a roasting pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together reserved ½ cup pineapple juice, ½ cup brown sugar, 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, and 1 tsp ground cloves. Brush half the glaze over ham.
3. Arrange pineapple rings over ham surface, securing with toothpicks. Place a cherry in the center of each ring, securing with a whole clove.
4. Bake uncovered for 1.5 hours (15 minutes per pound), brushing with remaining glaze every 30 minutes until caramelized and internal temperature reaches 140°F.

The pineapple juices mingle with the glaze to create a sticky, glossy crust, while the cherries add pops of brightness against the salty ham.

Tip: For extra flavor, pour 1 cup ginger ale into the pan before baking—it keeps the ham moist and adds subtle spice.

Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham

This sweet and smoky glazed ham is a showstopper for holidays or Sunday dinners—just wait until you catch that caramelized crust.

Ingredients:

• 1 (8–10 lb) fully cooked bone-in ham
• 1 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/2 cup bourbon
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Place ham cut-side down in a roasting pan and tent loosely with foil. Bake for 1.5 hours.
2. Meanwhile, whisk together 1 cup maple syrup, 1/2 cup bourbon, 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/2 tsp ground cloves in a saucepan. Simmer over medium-low heat for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Uncover ham and brush with half the glaze. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, then brush with remaining glaze and bake 15 more minutes until glossy and caramelized.

The magic here? The bourbon adds depth while the maple creates a sticky, crackly crust that clings to every slice.

Tip: Let the ham rest 15 minutes before carving—this helps the glaze set for cleaner slices.

Garlic Herb Crusted Ham

This garlic herb crusted ham is a showstopper—juicy, fragrant, and packed with savory flavor that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients:

• 1 (8-10 lb) fully cooked bone-in ham
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Place ham in a roasting pan, flat side down, and score the surface in a diamond pattern.
2. In a bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, Dijon mustard, honey, and black pepper until combined.
3. Spread the herb butter evenly over the ham, pressing it into the scored cuts.
4. Bake uncovered for 1.5–2 hours, basting every 30 minutes with pan juices, until the crust is golden and the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
5. Let rest 15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

The garlic-herb crust caramelizes into a sticky, crackly layer, while the ham stays tender and infused with aromatic richness. Perfect for holidays or Sunday dinners when you want something special without fuss.

Tip: For extra depth, add a splash of apple cider to the pan before baking—it enhances the sweetness and keeps the ham ultra-moist.

Orange Marmalade Glazed Ham

This sweet and tangy glazed ham is a showstopper for holidays or Sunday dinners—sticky, citrusy, and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 (8–10 lb) fully cooked bone-in ham
• 1 cup orange marmalade
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Place ham cut-side down in a roasting pan and tent loosely with foil. Bake for 1 hour 30 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, whisk together 1 cup orange marmalade, 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, and 1/2 tsp ground cloves in a saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 3 minutes until glossy.
3. Uncover ham and brush with half the glaze. Return to oven, uncovered, for 20 minutes. Brush with remaining glaze and bake 10 more minutes until caramelized.
4. Let ham rest 15 minutes before slicing. Serve with pan drippings spooned over the top.

The glaze’s bright citrus cuts through the richness of the ham, while the cloves add just a hint of warmth—perfect for balancing savory sides.

Tip: Score the ham fat in a crosshatch pattern before baking to help the glaze seep into every nook.

Spiced Rum and Cola Ham

This glazed ham gets a fun twist with spiced rum and cola—sweet, smoky, and just a little boozy, it’s a showstopper for holiday dinners or weekend feasts.

Ingredients:

• 1 (8–10 lb) fully cooked bone-in ham
• 2 cups cola (not diet)
• 1 cup spiced rum
• 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Place ham in a large roasting pan, fat side up.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cola, spiced rum, dark brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and black pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
3. Brush half the glaze over ham, then bake uncovered for 1 hour, basting every 20 minutes with remaining glaze.
4. Increase oven to 400°F and bake 15 more minutes until the glaze is sticky and caramelized. Let rest 15 minutes before slicing.

The rum and cola reduce into a glossy, spiced glaze with deep molasses notes—it’s like a tropical twist on classic ham.

Tip: For extra flavor, score the ham fat in a diamond pattern before glazing.

Apple Cider Glazed Ham

This sweet-and-savory glazed ham is a showstopper, with sticky caramelized edges and a hint of warm autumn spice.

Ingredients:

• 1 (8–10 lb) fully cooked bone-in ham
• 2 cups apple cider
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Place ham in a roasting pan, fat side up. Score the surface in a diamond pattern with a sharp knife.
2. In a saucepan, combine 2 cups apple cider, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp cinnamon, and 1/2 tsp cloves. Simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Brush half the glaze over ham. Bake uncovered for 1.5 hours, basting every 20 minutes with remaining glaze until deeply caramelized.
4. Let rest 15 minutes before slicing. Serve with pan drippings spooned over top.

The cider reduces into a glossy, spiced syrup that clings to every slice—perfect for balancing the ham’s richness.

Tip: For extra flavor, stud the ham with whole cloves before baking (remove before serving).

Pomegranate Molasses Glazed Ham

This showstopping ham gets a glossy, tangy-sweet glaze that caramelizes into a sticky, crackly crust—perfect for holiday dinners or Sunday feasts.

Ingredients

• 1 (8–10 lb) fully cooked bone-in ham
• 1 cup pomegranate molasses
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Place ham cut-side down in a roasting pan and tent loosely with foil. Bake for 1 hour 30 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, whisk together 1 cup pomegranate molasses, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1 tbsp vinegar, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp cloves in a saucepan. Simmer over medium-low for 5 minutes until thickened slightly.
3. Uncover ham and brush with half the glaze. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes. Brush with remaining glaze and bake 20 more minutes until deeply caramelized.
4. Let rest 15 minutes before slicing. The glaze will crisp up as it cools, creating a lacquered finish with pops of fruity tartness.

Tip: For extra crunch, broil the ham for 2–3 minutes after glazing—just watch closely to prevent burning!

Smoked Christmas Ham with Cloves

Nothing says holiday feasting like a fragrant, smoky ham studded with cloves—this recipe delivers juicy, caramelized perfection with minimal fuss.

Ingredients:

• 1 (8–10 lb) fully cooked bone-in ham
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground allspice
• Whole cloves (about 30–40)

Instructions:

1. Prep the ham: Score the ham in a diamond pattern (1/4-inch deep). Press 1 clove into the center of each diamond.
2. Make the glaze: Whisk together 1 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tbsp cinnamon, and 1 tsp allspice in a bowl until smooth.
3. Smoke: Place ham in a smoker preheated to 250°F. Brush with half the glaze and smoke for 2 hours, basting with remaining glaze every 30 minutes.
4. Finish: Increase smoker temp to 325°F and cook 30 more minutes until the internal temp reaches 140°F and the glaze is sticky and dark.

The cloves infuse the ham with warmth, while the smoky-sweet glaze caramelizes into a glossy, crackly crust—ideal for slicing thick and serving with biscuits.

Tip: For extra flavor, add a few applewood chunks to your smoker.

Rosemary and Thyme Infused Ham

This herb-kissed ham is a showstopper for Sunday dinners or holiday feasts—fragrant, juicy, and packed with cozy flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 (7–8 lb) fully cooked bone-in ham
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Place ham cut-side down in a roasting pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup honey, 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, 2 tbsp rosemary, 1 tbsp thyme, 3 cloves minced garlic, and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
3. Brush half the glaze evenly over ham. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 1 hour.
4. Uncover, brush with remaining glaze, and bake another 30–40 minutes until caramelized and internal temperature reaches 140°F.
5. Let rest 15 minutes before slicing.

The rosemary-thyme glaze forms a sticky, aromatic crust that seals in the ham’s natural sweetness—no dry bites here!

Tip: For extra herb flavor, tuck a few sprigs of rosemary and thyme under the ham before baking.

Cranberry Orange Glazed Ham

This sweet-tart glazed ham is a showstopper for holiday dinners, with a glossy finish and bright citrusy aroma that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients:

• 1 (8–10 lb) fully cooked bone-in ham
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Place ham in a roasting pan, flat side down, and score the surface in a diamond pattern. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 1 hour 30 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, combine cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and cloves in a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cranberries burst and glaze thickens slightly.
3. Uncover ham and brush with half the glaze. Return to oven, uncovered, for 20 minutes. Brush with remaining glaze and bake 10 more minutes until caramelized and sticky.
4. Let ham rest 15 minutes before slicing. Serve with any pan drippings spooned over the top.

The cranberry-orange glaze caramelizes into a shiny, crackly crust that balances the ham’s richness with a pop of fruity acidity.

Tip: For extra flavor, stud the ham with whole cloves before baking—just remove them before glazing.

Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham

This sweet and tangy glazed ham is a showstopper for holidays or Sunday dinners—juicy, caramelized, and packed with tropical flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 (8–10 lb) fully cooked spiral-cut ham
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp ground cloves
• 1 (20 oz) can pineapple rings, drained

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Place ham in a roasting pan, cut side down.
2. In a saucepan, whisk together 1 cup pineapple juice, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup honey, 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, and 1 tsp ground cloves. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Brush half the glaze over ham, then arrange pineapple rings on top, securing with toothpicks if needed. Pour remaining glaze evenly over ham.
4. Bake uncovered for 1.5–2 hours, basting every 30 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 140°F and the glaze is sticky and dark golden.
5. Let rest 15 minutes before slicing. Serve with pan drippings spooned over.

The pineapple caramelizes into a glossy crust, balancing the ham’s savoriness with just the right touch of sweetness. Tip: For extra flavor, stud the ham with whole cloves before glazing—just remove them before serving!

Gingerbread Spiced Ham

This holiday-worthy ham gets a cozy upgrade with warm gingerbread spices and a sticky-sweet glaze—perfect for impressing guests without extra fuss.

Ingredients:

• 1 (8–10 lb) fully cooked bone-in ham
• 1 cup packed dark brown sugar
• 1/3 cup molasses
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp ground allspice
• 1/4 cup apple cider

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Place ham in a roasting pan, flat side down, and score the surface in a diamond pattern.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together 1 cup dark brown sugar, 1/3 cup molasses, 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp ginger, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp cloves, 1/4 tsp allspice, and 1/4 cup apple cider. Simmer for 3 minutes until thickened slightly.
3. Brush half the glaze over ham, getting into the scored crevices. Bake uncovered for 1 hour 15 minutes, basting with remaining glaze every 20 minutes, until caramelized and internal temperature reaches 140°F.

The glaze’s deep molasses flavor and spiced aroma make this ham unforgettable—like a gingerbread cookie in savory form!

Tip: Let ham rest 15 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy. Save the pan drippings for a quick gravy by simmering with a splash of broth.

Balsamic Fig Glazed Ham

This sweet-tangy glazed ham is a showstopper for holiday dinners, with sticky caramelized edges and a deep, fruity flavor that pairs perfectly with salty ham.

Ingredients:

• 1 (7–8 lb) fully cooked bone-in ham
• 1 cup fig preserves
• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Place ham in a roasting pan, fat side up, and score the surface in a diamond pattern.
2. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup fig preserves, 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar, 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1 tbsp honey, and 1/2 tsp ground cloves. Simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring often, until thickened slightly.
3. Brush half the glaze over ham, then bake uncovered for 1 hour 30 minutes, basting with remaining glaze every 30 minutes.
4. Increase oven to 400°F and bake 10–15 minutes until glaze is bubbly and deeply caramelized. Rest 15 minutes before slicing.

The balsamic vinegar cuts through the richness of the ham, while the fig preserves add a jammy sweetness that clings to every slice.

Tip: For extra flavor, tuck sprigs of fresh rosemary between the scored ham before glazing.

Peach and Bourbon Glazed Ham

This sweet and smoky glazed ham is a showstopper, with juicy peaches and a bourbon kick that caramelizes into sticky perfection.

Ingredients:

• 1 (7–8 lb) fully cooked bone-in ham
• 1 cup peach preserves
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Place ham cut-side down in a roasting pan and tent loosely with foil. Bake for 1 hour 30 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, whisk together 1 cup peach preserves, 1/4 cup bourbon, 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/2 tsp ground cloves in a saucepan. Simmer over medium-low heat for 5 minutes until thickened.
3. Uncover ham and brush with half the glaze. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, then brush with remaining glaze. Bake 10 more minutes until glossy and caramelized.

The magic here? The bourbon sharpens the peaches’ sweetness while the ham’s edges crisp into a candied crust—no last-minute basting required.

Tip: For deeper flavor, make the glaze a day ahead and let the spices meld overnight.

Apricot Mustard Glazed Ham

This sweet-and-savory glazed ham is a showstopper for holidays or Sunday dinners—sticky, tangy, and packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 (8–10 lb) fully cooked bone-in ham
• 1 cup apricot preserves
• 1/3 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Place ham cut-side down in a roasting pan and tent loosely with foil. Bake for 1 hour 30 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, whisk together 1 cup apricot preserves, 1/3 cup Dijon mustard, 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, and 1/2 tsp ground cloves in a saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 3 minutes until glossy.
3. Uncover ham and brush with half the glaze. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes. Brush with remaining glaze and bake 10 more minutes until caramelized.

The magic here? The glaze forms a crackly, lacquered crust that seals in the ham’s juiciness while the apricot’s brightness cuts through the richness.

Tip: Score the ham fat in a crosshatch pattern before baking for extra crisp edges and better glaze adhesion.

Coca-Cola Glazed Ham

This sweet and sticky glazed ham is a showstopper for holidays or Sunday dinners—Coca-Cola adds a caramelized depth you won’t get from plain sugar.

Ingredients

• 1 (8–10 lb) fully cooked bone-in ham
• 2 cups Coca-Cola (not diet)
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp ground cloves

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Place ham in a large roasting pan, fat side up. Score the surface in a diamond pattern with a sharp knife.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together 2 cups Coca-Cola, 1 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, 2 tbsp vinegar, and 1 tsp cloves. Simmer for 10 minutes until thickened slightly.
3. Brush half the glaze over ham, then bake uncovered for 1 hour, basting every 20 minutes with remaining glaze.
4. Increase oven to 400°F and bake 15 more minutes until the glaze is bubbly and deeply caramelized.
5. Let rest 15 minutes before slicing. The Coke reduces into a glossy, crackly crust with a tangy-sweet kick.

Tip: Save the pan drippings! Whisk with a splash of broth for an easy gravy.

Spicy Chipotle Glazed Ham

This smoky-sweet glazed ham packs a punch with chipotle heat, making it the star of any holiday spread or weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 (7–8 lb) fully cooked bone-in ham
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp adobo sauce (from canned chipotles)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Place ham cut-side down in a roasting pan and score the surface in a diamond pattern.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together 1 cup brown sugar, 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar, 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, 2 tbsp adobo sauce, 1 tsp garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp ground cloves. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
3. Brush half the glaze over ham, then bake uncovered for 1 hour 15 minutes, brushing with remaining glaze every 20 minutes until caramelized.
4. Let rest 15 minutes before slicing. The glaze forms a sticky, crackly crust with layers of heat that mellow into sweetness.

Tip: For extra smokiness, blend 1 minced chipotle pepper into the glaze.

Pineapple Rum Glazed Ham

This sweet and tangy glazed ham is a showstopper—brushed with a sticky pineapple-rum glaze that caramelizes into pure magic.

Ingredients:

• 1 (8-10 lb) fully cooked bone-in ham
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup dark rum
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp ground cloves

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Place ham in a roasting pan, fat side up. Score the surface in a diamond pattern with a sharp knife.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup pineapple juice, 1/2 cup dark rum, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup honey, 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, and 1 tsp ground cloves. Simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
3. Brush half the glaze over ham. Bake uncovered for 1.5 hours, basting every 20 minutes with remaining glaze, until deeply caramelized and internal temperature reaches 140°F.
4. Let rest 15 minutes before slicing. Serve with any pan drippings spooned over the top.

The rum’s warmth and pineapple’s brightness balance the rich ham perfectly—plus, that glossy glaze makes it holiday-worthy without fuss.

Tip: For extra flavor, stud the scored ham with whole cloves before glazing (remove before serving).

Conclusion

With 20 delicious Christmas ham recipes to choose from, your holiday feast is sure to be a hit! Whether you prefer classic glazes or bold new flavors, there’s something here for everyone. Don’t forget to try a recipe, share your favorite in the comments, and pin this roundup for next year’s celebration. Wishing you a joyful and flavorful holiday season!