Irresistible Cranberry Glazed Christmas Ham for Festive Feasts

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Kacper Recipes Team

Every December, as the holidays draw near, my kitchen becomes a festive sanctuary filled with laughter, warmth, and, more importantly, the intoxicating aroma of my favorite Cranberry Glazed Christmas Ham. There s something truly special about the succulent meat glazed to perfection, with the sweet-tart notes of cranberry dancing alongside the savory spices.

I discovered this treasure of a recipe last holiday season while hosting a family gathering it turned out to be a delicious happy accident! With just a few simple steps and about two and a half hours, I had a centerpiece that not only wowed my guests but also left us with delightful leftovers for days. Whether you re looking to impress at your next holiday celebration or simply want to elevate your weeknight meals, this versatile dish is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Join me as we dive into this mouthwatering recipe that promises to bring a taste of festive joy right to your table!

Why is Cranberry Glazed Christmas Ham so special?

Irresistible flavor: The sweet-tart cranberry glaze uniquely complements the savory notes of the gammon, creating a delightful burst of taste in every bite.
Impressive presentation: With its diamond pattern and festive glaze, this dish is sure to be the star of your holiday table.
Time-efficient: In just 2.5 hours, including prep and cooking time, you ll have a stunning centerpiece ready to impress guests.
Versatile serving options: Perfect for holiday feasts, yet also great as leftovers in sandwiches or salads, it s a dish that keeps on giving!
Crowd-pleaser: This recipe is bound to become a favorite among family and friends, making your celebrations all the more memorable. If you re interested in more festive ideas, be sure to check out my selection of delectable Christmas recipes.

Cranberry Glazed Christmas Ham Ingredients

For the Ham
2 kg unsmoked gammon The star of the show, providing a savory base for our festive flavors.
400 g apple juice Adds a touch of sweetness and balance to the salty ham.
500 g cider Infuses the meat with a rich depth while keeping it moist.
1 large onion roughly chopped Offers aromatic sweetness and savory depth to the broth.
2 sticks celery roughly chopped Brings a fresh crunch and enhances the broth s flavor.
1 head fennel roughly chopped Adds a unique anise-like flavor that complements the glaze.
2 cloves garlic lightly crushed Enhances the savory notes with its aromatic qualities.
small bunch of parsley stalks Contributes fresh herbaceous notes to the cooking liquid.
2 bay leaves Infuses subtle herbal notes to the broth.
2 star anise Introduces a warm, sweet flavor that elevates the overall taste.
1 tablespoon fennel seeds Enhances the fennel flavor while adding a slight crunch.
1 tablespoon black peppercorns Provides a gentle heat and complexity to the dish.
1-2 tablespoons cloves Offers a warm and sweet spice that marries beautifully with the glaze.

For the Glaze
150 g cranberry sauce The hero ingredient, giving a sweet-tart punch that defines the glaze.
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar Adds depth and a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness.
2 teaspoons dijon mustard Introduces a subtle piquancy that elevates the glaze s flavor.

These ingredients for your Cranberry Glazed Christmas Ham will come together to create a festive masterpiece that your loved ones will rave about!

How to Make Cranberry Glazed Christmas Ham

1. Prepare the Gammon: Place the gammon in a very large saucepan and cover it with water. Heat the water until it reaches a rolling boil, allowing the flavors to start developing.

2. Rinse and Refresh: Carefully remove the gammon and pour out the water before giving the pan a quick rinse to eliminate any impurities.

3. Add Ingredients: Return the gammon to the pan and combine it with all the ingredients except for the glaze components. Fill the pan with water to ensure the gammon is fully submerged.

4. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat. Cover and simmer for 90 minutes, which allows the meat to absorb all those delicious flavors.

5. Rest the Gammon: Once cooked, remove the gammon and let it rest while you prepare the festive glaze, enhancing the meat s juiciness.

6. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 200 °C / 180 °C fan assisted / gas mark 6 / 400 °F, creating the perfect environment for roasting.

7. Trim the Ham: Carefully remove the string from the ham and cut off any thick skin on top of the fat layer, leaving a nice layer intact for maximum flavor.

8. Score the Fat: Using a sharp knife, make a diamond pattern in the fat layer, taking care not to pierce the meat underneath. Insert a clove into each diamond for added spice!

9. Blend the Glaze: Blitz the glaze ingredients in a small bowl with an immersion blender until smooth. Brush half of this glossy mixture over the ham.

10. Roast the Ham: Place the ham in a foil-lined roasting tin with a ladleful of the cooking liquid. Roast for 30-35 minutes, basting twice with the remaining glaze at 10 and 20 minutes.

11. Let it Rest: Once the ham is beautifully caramelized, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for at least 10 minutes before carving. This resting period ensures juicy slices.

Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Cranberry Glazed Christmas Ham

• Choose Quality Gammon: Opt for a good-quality unsmoked gammon for the best flavor. Poor quality can result in a disappointing meal.

• Don t Rush Simmering: Let the gammon simmer for the full 90 minutes. This ensures it absorbs all the flavors before glazing, preventing dryness.

• Score Carefully: When scoring the fat, make sure to not cut into the meat. This prevents the juices from escaping, keeping your Cranberry Glazed Christmas Ham moist.

• Resting Time Matters: Allow the ham to rest after roasting. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender, flavorful slices.

• Baste Generously: Don t skip the basting! Keep your ham moist and flavorful by basting it with the glaze at the recommended intervals during roasting.

Cranberry Glazed Christmas Ham Variations

Let your creativity blossom and personalize this dish with these fun twists and substitutions that will add layers of flavor!

• Pineapple Glaze: Substitute cranberry sauce with pineapple preserves for a tropical twist that balances sweetness and acidity beautifully.

• Honey Balsamic: Replace balsamic vinegar with honey for a richer, sweeter glaze that caramelizes wonderfully in the oven.

• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or sriracha to the glaze for a zesty heat that contrasts nicely with the ham s sweetness.

• Vegetarian Version: Use a large butternut squash or pumpkin instead of gammon for a delicious vegetarian centerpiece, following the same glazing process.

• Citrus Burst: Incorporate orange juice and zest into the glaze for an aromatic citrus note that brightens the overall flavor profile.

• Herb-Infused: Tuck some fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs into the scoring before glazing for a fragrant herbal infusion that complements the savory elements.

• Gluten-Free Substitute: Ensure the dijon mustard is gluten-free or swap it with a whole-grain mustard for a mildly spicy flavor that works perfectly in the glaze.

Each variation keeps the spirit of the Cranberry Glazed Christmas Ham while offering a delightful twist you and your loved ones will adore!

What to Serve with Cranberry Glazed Christmas Ham?

As you gather with loved ones around the festive table, complementing your main dish will elevate the experience and delight their senses.

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture pairs beautifully with the juicy ham, soaking up the sweet-tart glaze. They re a comforting classic that everyone loves!

• Honey Roasted Carrots: Their natural sweetness and caramelized edges add vibrant color and a touch of elegance to your plate. Plus, they balance the richness of the ham with each bite.

• Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: Crispy, savory sprouts cooked with crispy bacon introduce a savory crunch that enhances the overall flavor profile of the meal. This dish is a beloved holiday favorite!

• Stuffing with Sage and Onion: A warm, herby stuffing provides a textured contrast to the glaze, making it a perfect, mouthwatering complement to each slice of ham.

• Green Bean Almondine: These tender beans topped with toasted almonds add a refreshing crunch and bright flavor, ensuring your plate has everything it needs for balance.

• Spiced Cranberry Sauce: In case you want more cranberry goodness, serve extra cranberry sauce on the side for those who love that burst of flavor. It contrasts wonderfully with the gammon.

• Mulled Wine: For a drink option, mulled wine introduces warm spices and a fruity bouquet that enhances the festivity of the meal, warming hearts and bellies alike!

• Pumpkin Pie: Finish the meal with a slice of this classic dessert. Its spiced flavors and creamy texture will leave your guests enchanted, sealing your holiday feast with sweet satisfaction.

These pairings not only complement the Cranberry Glazed Christmas Ham but also create a symphony of tastes and textures that will be remembered long after the last bite!

Make Ahead Options

These Cranberry Glazed Christmas Ham preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the gammon in advance by simmering it up to 24 hours before you plan to serve. After simmering, let the ham rest, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. For the glaze, you can blend the ingredients and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you re ready to serve, simply score the fat, brush the glaze over, and roast as directed, ensuring it will still come out just as delicious and beautifully caramelized!

How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Glazed Christmas Ham

Fridge: Store leftover Cranberry Glazed Christmas Ham in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its juicy flavor and tenderness.

Freezer: Wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. This preserves its delightful taste for later enjoyment.

Reheating: Thaw the ham in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a preheated oven at 180 °C / 350 °F for about 20-30 minutes, drizzling with a bit of apple juice or broth to keep it moist.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the ham at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage and maintain its quality.

Cranberry Glazed Christmas Ham Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right gammon for my Cranberry Glazed Christmas Ham?
Absolutely! When selecting your gammon, look for unsmoked and good-quality cuts. A piece with a nice fat cap can enhance flavor during cooking. Aim for a weight that suits your gathering around 2 kg should serve 8 people nicely. Just keep an eye out for any odd smells or dark spots!

How should I store leftover Cranberry Glazed Christmas Ham?
After enjoying your feast, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They ll stay fresh for about 3 days. To maintain the ham s moisture, I recommend placing a damp paper towel over the ham before sealing!

Can I freeze Cranberry Glazed Christmas Ham, and how?
Certainly! To freeze your Cranberry Glazed Christmas Ham, tightly wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, or store them in a heavy-duty freezer bag. This method will keep it fresh for up to 3 months. When you re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!

What should I do if my ham seems dry after cooking?
Oh no! If you find your ham a bit dry, don t fret. To salvage it, slice it up and soak the pieces in a broth or apple juice for about 30 minutes before serving this will add moisture back and enhance flavor. Next time, make sure to baste generously while roasting!

Is this recipe safe for my pets or anyone with allergies?
Great question! The Cranberry Glazed Christmas Ham contains onions and garlic, which can be harmful to pets, so make sure they don t sneak a nibble! For allergy considerations, be cautious with the spices (especially cloves) and the mustard in the glaze, as they might trigger sensitivities. Always consult a doctor if in doubt!