Sweet & Savory Glazed Christmas Ham for Memorable Holidays

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Kacper Recipes Team

As the holiday season approaches and the air turns crisp, I find myself reminiscing about those delightful gatherings filled with laughter, love, and of course, incredible food. The Sweet & Savory Glazed Christmas Ham emerges as a true star at these celebrations, its glossy exterior captured in a shimmering glaze that perfectly balances honey and warm spices. The mesmerizing aroma wafting through the kitchen leaves everyone eagerly awaiting the first slice!

This recipe isn t just about tradition; it s a versatile dish that can be adapted to fit any palate, whether you re seeking keto-friendly options or simply wanting to mix things up with a spicy twist. With a few easily sourced ingredients and a little patience, you ll create a festive centerpiece that will wow your guests and create lasting memories around the table. Let s dive into this holiday classic and make it a memorable experience for everyone!

Why is Sweet & Savory Glazed Christmas Ham a Holiday Essential?

Unforgettable Flavor: The perfect blend of sweet honey and warm spices creates a glaze that s bursting with flavor, making each bite truly memorable.
Crowd-Pleasing Centerpiece: This dish brings everyone together, ensuring your holiday gathering is filled with joy and mouthwatering aromas.
Customizable Options: With variations available, from keto-friendly to spicy glazes, there s something for every taste preference.
Easy to Prepare: Simple steps and widely available ingredients make this recipe accessible for both novice and seasoned cooks.
Leftover Delight: Enjoy the scrumptious tastes of holiday ham in sandwiches or soups, extending the joy well beyond the feast!

Your guests will rave about this dish, and it s a great addition to the holiday meal lineup.

Sweet & Savory Glazed Christmas Ham Ingredients

For the Ham

Bone-in, fully cooked spiral-cut ham (8-10 pounds) The star of the dish, this makes serving easy and satisfying.

For the Glaze

Light brown sugar Provides the essential sweetness that caramelizes beautifully.
Pure honey Enhances the viscous quality of the glaze and adds depth; try maple syrup for a different twist!
Dijon mustard Adds a tangy kick that complements the sweetness perfectly.
Apple cider vinegar Balances the sweetness and adds a delightful acidity; white vinegar can be a suitable substitute.
Freshly squeezed orange juice Brings in a burst of bright flavor; consider grapefruit juice for a more robust taste.
Unsalted butter Contributes to the richness and helps the glaze cling to the ham; go for ghee as a lactose-free option.
Ground cinnamon, ground cloves, ground ginger This warm spice trio infuses the glaze with holiday spirit; feel free to adjust based on your taste.
Black pepper & cayenne pepper (optional) Add a touch of warmth; omit cayenne for a milder experience.
Whole cloves (optional) For an aromatic and decorative touch.
Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish) Enhances visual appeal and adds a herbal fragrance to your presentation.

Note:

With the Sweet & Savory Glazed Christmas Ham, your holiday feast is destined to be deliciously memorable!

How to Make Sweet & Savory Glazed Christmas Ham

1. Preheat your oven to 325 °F (163 °C). Line a roasting pan with foil and place a rack inside to elevate the ham for even cooking.

2. Prepare the ham by removing it from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking; pat it dry with paper towels to ensure the glaze sticks nicely.

3. Combine brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and freshly squeezed orange juice in a saucepan. Whisk together until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.

4. Add unsalted butter and spices (ground cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and optional black or cayenne pepper) to the saucepan. Simmer this concoction over medium heat for 8-10 minutes until it thickens pleasantly.

5. Place the ham on the rack in the roasting pan, score the surface in a diamond pattern for better glaze adherence (if it s a whole ham), and tent loosely with foil.

6. Pour 1 cup of water into the pan beneath the rack to create steam and roast for approximately 10-12 minutes per pound, ensuring the ham remains moist.

7. Remove the foil after 45 minutes and generously brush the ham with the glaze. Repeat glazing every 15-20 minutes, layering it for 4-5 times until beautifully caramelized.

8. Check the internal temperature aiming for 140 °F (60 °C). Adjust cooking time if needed, ensuring your ham is perfectly cooked through.

9. Rest your ham for 15-20 minutes under a tent of foil after removing it from the oven. This step allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it tender.

10. Simmer any remaining glaze on the stovetop for 3-4 minutes until it thickens, and serve it alongside your sliced ham for an added flavor boost.

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

How to Store and Freeze Sweet & Savory Glazed Christmas Ham

• Fridge: Store leftover ham tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh for up to 5-7 days. Reheat gently before serving to retain moisture.
• Freezer: For longer storage, wrap portions of ham in freezer-safe bags or airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months without losing flavor.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the ham in a baking dish with a splash of water, cover it with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 325 °F (163 °C) until heated through.
• Glaze Storage: If you have leftover glaze, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat before using as a topping for reheated ham.

Make Ahead Options

These Sweet & Savory Glazed Christmas Ham preparations are ideal for busy home cooks seeking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the glaze up to 3 days in advance; simply combine the brown sugar, honey, mustard, vinegar, orange juice, and spices as outlined, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. To maintain the quality of the glaze, ensure it s tightly sealed to prevent absorbing any odors from your fridge. On the day of serving, remove the ham from the fridge 30 minutes prior to cooking, then simply brush the pre-made glaze over it before roasting. With this make-ahead approach, you ll enjoy tender, flavorful ham with minimal last-minute effort!

What to Serve with Sweet & Savory Glazed Christmas Ham?

Creating a memorable holiday meal is all about pairing delicious flavors and textured delights that complement your centerpiece.

• Creamy Scalloped Potatoes: The rich, cheesy layers of potatoes provide a comforting counterpoint to the sweet and savory ham, ensuring every bite is indulgent.

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: With their crispy edges and earthy flavor, these greens add a delightful contrast while enhancing the meal with fresh, vibrant color.

• Winter Salad: Incorporate pomegranate seeds and candied pecans for sweetness and crunch, perfectly balancing the ham s flavors and adding a refreshing touch.

• Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness echoes the ham s glaze, while a slight caramelization brings out the earthy flavors, making for an irresistible side dish.

• Cranberry Sauce: A classic companion, the tartness cuts through the richness of the ham, offering a burst of flavor that brightens your plate.

• Red Wine: A bottle of full-bodied red wine elevates the holiday dining experience, pairing beautifully with the rich flavors of glazed ham, creating a festive atmosphere.

Consider these pairings to create a holiday feast that warms the heart and delights the taste buds!

Sweet & Savory Glazed Christmas Ham Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the traditional recipe, ensuring a unique touch for your holiday feast!

• Keto-Friendly Glaze: Swap brown sugar with erythritol and replace honey with sugar-free maple syrup for a guilt-free option. Enjoy the same luscious flavor without the carbs.

• Spicy Glaze: Add sriracha or chipotle powder to the glaze for a fiery kick. The heat complements the sweet elements wonderfully, creating a truly memorable experience.

• Tropical Twist: Use pineapple juice instead of orange juice for a refreshing, island-inspired flavor. This brightens up the glaze, bringing sunshine to your holiday table.

• Savory Herb Blend: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary with your glaze for an aromatic twist. This adds a sophisticated layer of flavor that delights the senses.

• Maple Glaze: Substitute honey with pure maple syrup for a different sweet dimension. The rich maple flavor pairs beautifully with the ham s smokiness, making each bite extraordinary.

• Citrus Medley: Combine fresh orange and lemon juices for a bright, zesty glaze. This citrusy infusion adds a refreshing contrast to the dish, perfect for festive gatherings.

• Fruit-Infused Glaze: Mix in a tablespoon of cherry or cranberry preserves to the glaze. The fruity notes enhance the sweetness while providing a beautiful color and sheen.

• Herbaceous Infusion: Add a pinch of dried oregano or thyme for an earthy depth to the glaze. These herbs bring warmth and richness that beautifully complements the ham s sweetness.

Expert Tips for Sweet & Savory Glazed Christmas Ham

• Use a Thermometer: Always use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140 °F (60 °C) without overcooking.

• Prep Ahead: Allow your ham to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking, ensuring even cooking throughout and preventing dryness.

• Moisture Matters: Pour water into the roasting pan to create steam. This extra moisture helps keep the ham juicy and prevents it from drying out while roasting.

• Layer Your Glaze: Brush glaze every 15-20 minutes for 4-5 layers. This not only builds rich flavor but also creates a beautiful caramelized crust on your Sweet & Savory Glazed Christmas Ham.

• Rest Before Slicing: Allow your ham to rest, tented with foil, for 15-20 minutes after cooking. This step is crucial for juicy, tender slices, as it redistributes the meat s juices.

Sweet & Savory Glazed Christmas Ham Recipe FAQs

What type of ham should I choose for the best results?
Absolutely! A bone-in, fully cooked spiral-cut ham (8-10 pounds) is ideal for this recipe. It offers succulent meat that s easy to serve. If you can t find spiral-cut, traditional bone-in shank or butt portions work beautifully as well, providing a juicy texture and great flavor.

How should I store leftover glazed ham?
Leftover ham can be stored tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain its moisture and flavor. When ready to serve, simply reheat it gently to preserve juiciness.

Can I freeze Sweet & Savory Glazed Christmas Ham?
Yes! To freeze, slice the ham into portions and wrap them tightly in freezer-safe bags or airtight containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months without losing its delicious flavor. When you re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.

What are some common mistakes to avoid while preparing the ham?
One common mistake is skipping the resting period after cooking. Let the ham rest, tented with foil, for 15-20 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute for tender slices. Additionally, be sure to use an instant-read thermometer to avoid overcooking, ensuring an internal temperature of 140 °F (60 °C).

Is there a way to adapt this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Very! For those following keto, you can exchange light brown sugar with erythritol and substitute pure honey with sugar-free maple syrup for a low-carb alternative. If you have allergies, avoid using dijon mustard and opt for yellow mustard instead, or simply leave it out altogether there are plenty of ways to customize this Sweet & Savory Glazed Christmas Ham to fit your needs!