25 Christmas Ham Recipes: A Festive Feast with a Twist

The holiday season is a time for gatherings, joy, and of course, delicious food! While the classic turkey often steals the spotlight on Christmas, ham is a delightful alternative that offers a unique twist to your holiday table. In this blog post, we present 25 festive ham recipes that will delight your guests and amaze their taste buds. From sweet glazes to savory rubs, there’s a little something for everyone to enjoy. Let's dive into the flavorful world of Christmas ham!

1. Honey Glazed Ham

A classic choice, honey glazed ham is sweet, sticky, and simply irresistible.

Ingredients:

• 1 spiral-cut ham (8-10 pounds)

• 1 cup honey

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

  
  

Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. In a saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and cloves. Heat over medium until melted and smooth.

3. Place the ham in a roasting pan, cut side down. Brush with the glaze.

4. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 1.5 hours, basting every 30 minutes.

5. Remove the foil in the last 30 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize.

   
   

A festive honey glazed ham ready for the holiday feast.

2. Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham

This sweet and tangy glaze brings a tropical twist to your holiday meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 bone-in ham (8-10 pounds)

• 1 cup brown sugar

• 1 cup pineapple juice

• 1 can sliced pineapples (for garnish)

• Maraschino cherries (optional)

  
  

Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. In a bowl, mix brown sugar and pineapple juice until fully blended.

3. Place the ham in a roasting pan, pour the glaze over it, and arrange the pineapples on top.

4. Bake for 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes, until the ham reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

5. Garnish with cherries before serving.

   
   

A festive brown sugar and pineapple ham decorated with cherries.

3. Maple Mustard Glazed Ham

The combination of maple syrup and mustard creates a delightful balance of flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 ham (8-10 pounds)

• 1 cup maple syrup

• 1/2 cup Dijon mustard

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

  
  

Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and cayenne pepper.

3. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern and place it in a roasting pan.

4. Brush the glaze over the ham and bake for about 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes.

5. Increase the temperature to caramelize the glaze in the last 10 minutes of cooking.

   
   

A delicious maple mustard glazed ham ready to be sliced.

4. Cranberry-Orange Glazed Ham

This bright and fruity glaze adds a refreshing touch to your holiday spread.

Ingredients:

• 1 ham (8-10 pounds)

• 1 cup cranberry sauce

• 1/2 cup orange juice

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• Zest of one orange

  
  

Steps:

1. Heat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. In a saucepan, combine cranberry sauce, orange juice, brown sugar, and orange zest. Heat until well mixed.

3. Score the ham and place it in a roasting pan. Brush the glaze generously over the surface.

4. Bake for 1.5-2 hours, basting every 30 minutes, until heated through.

   
   

A vibrant cranberry-orange glazed ham full of holiday cheer.

5. Spicy Chipotle Glazed Ham

Turn up the heat this Christmas with a spicy chipotle glaze that packs a punch.

Ingredients:

• 1 smoked ham (8-10 pounds)

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 2 tablespoons chipotle sauce

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

  
  

Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. In a bowl, mix brown sugar, chipotle sauce, and apple cider vinegar to create the glaze.

3. Score the ham and place it in a roasting pan. Pour the glaze over the top.

4. Bake for 1.5 hours, basting with the drippings every 30 minutes.

   
   

A spicy chipotle glazed ham set for the holiday table.

6. Garlic Herb Crusted Ham

Elevate your holiday flavor profile with a robust garlic and herb crust.

Ingredients:

• 1 ham (8-10 pounds)

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 4 cloves minced garlic

• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme

  
  

Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.

3. Score the surface of the ham and rub the herb mixture all over it.

4. Bake for 2 hours, basting occasionally, until golden brown and heated through.

   
   

A richly flavored garlic herb crusted ham ready for serving.

7. Teriyaki Glazed Ham

Bring a taste of Asia to your Christmas table with a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze.

Ingredients:

• 1 ham (8-10 pounds)

• 1 cup teriyaki sauce

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• Sesame seeds for garnish

  
  

Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. In a bowl, mix teriyaki sauce and brown sugar until combined.

3. Score the ham and pour the glaze over the top, reserving some for basting.

4. Bake for 1.5 hours, basting with the glaze every 30 minutes.

5. Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

   
   

A flavorful teriyaki glazed ham garnished with sesame seeds.

8. Maple-Bourbon Glazed Ham

Add a touch of sophistication with a maple-bourbon glaze that enhances the natural sweetness of ham.

Ingredients:

• 1 bone-in ham (8-10 pounds)

• 1 cup maple syrup

• 1/2 cup bourbon

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

  
  

Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. Whisk together maple syrup, bourbon, and black pepper in a bowl.

3. Score the ham, place it in a roasting pan, and pour the glaze over it.

4. Bake for 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes until caramelized.

   
   

A sophisticated maple-bourbon glazed ham perfect for holiday feasts.

9. Mustard and Herb Crusted Ham

A crunchy, tangy crust makes this ham a standout on the Christmas dinner table.

Ingredients:

• 1 ham (8-10 pounds)

• 1/4 cup whole grain mustard

• 1 cup breadcrumbs

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme

  
  

Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. Mix mustard, breadcrumbs, parsley, and thyme in a bowl.

3. Score the ham and apply the mustard mixture evenly.

4. Bake for 1.5-2 hours, until the crust is golden and the ham is heated through.

   
   

A tangy mustard and herb crusted ham on a serving platter.

10. Raspberry Chipotle Ham

This unique glaze combines sweetness with a hint of heat for an unforgettable flavor experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 ham (8-10 pounds)

• 1 cup raspberry jam

• 2 tablespoon chipotle in adobo sauce

• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

  
  

Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. In a saucepan, mix raspberry jam, chipotle, and vinegar. Heat until it becomes a glaze.

3. Score the ham and brush the glaze generously over it.

4. Bake for 2 hours, basting occasionally with the glaze.

   
   

A unique raspberry chipotle glazed ham for holiday celebrations.

11. Apple Cider Glazed Ham

Infuse your Christmas ham with the warm flavors of apple and spices for a comforting dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 ham (8-10 pounds)

• 1 cup apple cider

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 2 teaspoons cinnamon

  
  

Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. In a saucepan, combine apple cider, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Warm until the sugar dissolves.

3. Score the ham and pour the glaze over it.

4. Bake for 1.5-2 hours, basting with the glaze every 30 minutes.

   
   

A comforting apple cider glazed ham ready for Christmas.

12. Orange Ginger Glazed Ham

A bright glaze with spiced notes makes this ham an instant holiday classic.

Ingredients:

• 1 ham (8-10 pounds)

• 1 cup orange marmalade

• 1 tablespoon grated ginger

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

  
  

Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. Mix the orange marmalade, grated ginger, and brown sugar in a bowl.

3. Score the ham and brush with the glaze before placing it in a roasting pan.

4. Bake for about 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes.

   
   

A vibrant orange ginger glazed ham set for celebration.

13. Lemon Honey Glazed Ham

This refreshing take combines citrus zest with sweet honey for a delightful taste sensation.

Ingredients:

• 1 ham (8-10 pounds)

• 1 cup honey

• Juice and zest of 2 lemons

• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard

  
  

Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. In a bowl, whisk together honey, lemon juice, zest, and mustard.

3. Score the surface of the ham and brush the glaze generously.

4. Bake for 1.5-2 hours, basting every 30 minutes.

   
   

A refreshing lemon honey glazed ham perfect for holiday gatherings.

14. Southern Style Coca-Cola Ham

This Southern favorite drizzles the ham with the sweet flavor of Coca-Cola for a unique spin.

Ingredients:

• 1 ham (8-10 pounds)

• 1 can Coca-Cola (12 oz)

• 1 cup brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon mustard

  
  

Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. Combine Coca-Cola, brown sugar, and mustard in a bowl.

3. Score the ham and pour the mixture over it.

4. Bake for 1.5-2 hours, basting every 30 minutes.

   
   

A unique Southern style Coca-Cola glazed ham ready for the table.

15. Mustard and Honey Glazed Ham

A tangy and sweet glaze adds depth to a perfectly cooked ham.

Ingredients:

• 1 ham (8-10 pounds)

• 1/2 cup Dijon mustard

• 1/2 cup honey

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

  
  

Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. In a bowl, mix Dijon mustard, honey, and brown sugar until combined.

3. Score the ham and brush the glaze over it generously.

4. Bake for 1.5-2 hours, basting occasionally.

   
   

A delicious mustard and honey glazed ham for holiday festivities.

16. Peppadew and Herb Glazed Ham

A zesty and herb-filled glaze gives this ham a modern update.

Ingredients:

• 1 ham (8-10 pounds)

• 1/2 cup peppadew peppers, chopped

• 1/4 cup honey

• 1 tablespoon fresh basil

  
  

Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. In a bowl, mix chopped peppadew peppers, honey, and basil.

3. Score the ham, then spread the glaze over the surface.

4. Bake for 1.5-2 hours, basting every 30 minutes.

   
   

A flavorful peppadew and herb glazed ham served at Christmas.

17. Fig Balsamic Glazed Ham

This gourmet glaze enhances the ham with the rich sweetness of figs and a hint of tart balsamic vinegar.

Ingredients:

• 1 ham (8-10 pounds)

• 1 cup fig jam

• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary

  
  

Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. Combine fig jam, balsamic vinegar, and rosemary in a bowl.

3. Score the ham and brush the glaze generously over it.

4. Bake for 1.5-2 hours, making sure to baste periodically.

   
   

A delicious fig balsamic glazed ham perfect for holiday gatherings.

18. Charcuterie Style Ham

Serve your ham alongside a variety of cheeses, fruits, and nuts for a charcuterie-inspired spread.

Ingredients:

• 1 ham (8-10 pounds)

• Assorted cheeses

• Fresh fruits like grapes and figs

• Mixed nuts

  
  

Steps:

1. Preheat the oven according to your ham recipe.

2. Prepare your ham according to any of the above recipes.

3. Allow the ham to cool slightly before slicing.

4. Arrange the ham slices with cheeses, fruits, and nuts on a large platter.

   
   

A beautiful charcuterie style ham platter for Christmas.

19. Sweet and Spicy Peach Glaze Ham

Peach preserves combined with spices create a sweet yet spicy flavor profile.

Ingredients:

• 1 ham (8-10 pounds)

• 1 cup peach preserves

• 1 teaspoon chili flakes

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

  
  

Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. Combine peach preserves, chili flakes, and mustard in a bowl.

3. Score the ham and brush generously with the glaze.

4. Bake for 2 hours, basting occasionally.

   
   

A sweet and spicy peach glazed ham ready for celebration.

20. Lemon Garlic Herb Glazed Ham

Citrusy garlic and herbs lend vibrant flavor to your ham dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 ham (8-10 pounds)

• Juice of 3 lemons

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme

  
  

Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. In a bowl, mix lemon juice, garlic, and thyme.

3. Score the ham and rub the mixture all over it.

4. Bake for 1.5-2 hours, basting with pan juices.

   
   

A zesty lemon garlic herb glazed ham ready to be sliced.

21. Chocolate-Orange Glazed Ham

Surprising and indulgent, this glaze features chocolate and orange for a unique twist.

Ingredients:

• 1 ham (8-10 pounds)

• 1 cup dark chocolate, melted

• 1/2 cup orange juice

• 2 tablespoons honey

  
  

Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. Combine melted chocolate, orange juice, and honey in a bowl.

3. Score the ham and brush with the glaze.

4. Bake for 1.5-2 hours, basting with the glaze.

   
   

An indulgent chocolate-orange glazed ham for special occasions.

22. Honey-Jalapeño Glazed Ham

Sweet and spicy come together beautifully in this honey-jalapeño glaze.

Ingredients:

• 1 ham (8-10 pounds)

• 1/2 cup honey

• 2 jalapeños, minced

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

  
  

Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. Combine honey, minced jalapeños, and vinegar in a bowl.

3. Score the ham and glaze generously.

4. Bake for 2 hours, basting frequently.

   
   

A sweet and spicy honey-jalapeño glazed ham perfect for Christmas.

23. Sriracha Maple Glazed Ham

Kick up the heat with a spicy sriracha maple glaze that brings a sweetfire flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 ham (8-10 pounds)

• 1/2 cup maple syrup

• 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

  
  

Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. Mix maple syrup, Sriracha, and soy sauce in a bowl.

3. Score the ham, then brush the glaze on top.

4. Bake for 1.5-2 hours, basting every 30 minutes.

   
   

A zesty sriracha maple glazed ham ready for the holiday feast.

24. Almond-Ginger Glazed Ham

A nutty and spiced glaze adds unique depth to your holiday ham.

Ingredients:

• 1 ham (8-10 pounds)

• 1/2 cup almond butter

• 1/4 cup ginger, grated

• 1/3 cup honey

  
  

Steps:

1. Preheat to 325°F (165°C).

2. In a bowl, mix almond butter, ginger, and honey until smooth.

3. Score the ham and smear the glaze over it.

4. Bake for 2 hours, basting occasionally.

   
   

A flavorful almond-ginger glazed ham served for holiday gatherings.

25. Lemon Basil Glazed Ham

Refreshing lemon and aromatic basil create a bright and flavorful experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 ham (8-10 pounds)

• Zest and juice of 2 lemons

• 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped

• 1/4 cup olive oil

  
  

Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. Whisk lemon zest, lemon juice, basil, and olive oil together.

3. Score the ham and brush the mixture on top.

4. Bake for 1.5-2 hours, basting every 30 minutes.

   
   

A refreshing lemon basil glazed ham ready for serving.

Conclusion

Christmas is all about the spirit of sharing, love, and, most importantly, delicious food! These 25 Christmas ham recipes promise to light up your holidays with unique flavors and festive cheer. Whether you opt for a sweet glaze, a spicy twist, or a fragrant herb seasoning, each recipe brings something special to the table. So gather your loved ones, whip up these delightful hams, and create magical memories this holiday season. Happy cooking and happy holidays!

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