Spiral glazed ham is a classic centerpiece for holidays and special occasions. Its beautiful spiral slices make serving easy, and the glaze adds a mouthwatering sweet and savory finish. If you’ve ever wondered how to cook a spiral glazed ham perfectly, you’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through everything step-by-step, from prepping your ham to making a delicious glaze and baking it to juicy perfection.
What Is a Spiral Ham?
A spiral ham is a fully cooked ham that’s pre-sliced in a continuous spiral around the bone. This makes it super easy to serve because the slices naturally separate without much effort. Since it’s already cooked, your main goal is to heat it through without drying it out, then add a tasty glaze for that signature sticky, caramelized finish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– Spiral ham (8-10 pounds, fully cooked)
– Glaze ingredients (choose one or mix your favorites):
– Brown sugar
– Honey
– Dijon mustard
– Orange or pineapple juice
– Spices like cinnamon, cloves, or ground ginger
– Optional: fig preserves, balsamic vinegar, shallots, garlic
Step-by-Step Instructions to Cook Spiral Glazed Ham
1. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 325°F (163°C). This moderate temperature gently warms the ham without drying it out.
2. Prepare the Ham
Remove the ham from its packaging. If there’s a plastic disk on the underside of the bone, discard it. Place the ham cut side down in a shallow roasting pan. Cover it tightly with aluminum foil to keep moisture in.
3. Heat the Ham
Bake the covered ham for about 12 to 15 minutes per pound. For example, a 10-pound ham will take roughly 2 to 2.5 hours. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature – it should reach 140°F (60°C) to be properly heated through without overcooking.
4. Make the Glaze
While the ham is baking, prepare your glaze. Here’s a simple and popular glaze recipe:
– 2/3 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup orange or pineapple juice
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
Combine these in a saucepan and simmer until the sugar dissolves and the glaze thickens slightly. You can also add honey, spices like cinnamon and cloves, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra flavor complexity.
5. Glaze and Finish Baking
When the ham reaches about 135°F, remove the foil and brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get between the spiral slices. Return the ham to the oven uncovered and bake for another 15-20 minutes. This step caramelizes the glaze and adds a beautiful sticky coating.
6. Rest and Serve
Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing further. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender. Serve with extra glaze on the side for dipping.
Tips for the Perfect Spiral Glazed Ham
– Don’t overcook: Since spiral hams are pre-cooked, heating to 140°F is enough. Overcooking will dry out the meat.
– Cover while baking: Keeping the ham covered during most of the cooking process locks in moisture.
– Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your ham is heated perfectly.
– Make your own glaze: Skip the packet glaze and make a fresh one with simple ingredients for better flavor.
– Caramelize the glaze: Broil or increase oven temperature for the last few minutes to get a sticky, golden crust.
– Let it rest: Resting the ham after baking keeps it juicy and easier to slice.
Flavor Variations for Your Glaze
You can customize your glaze to match your taste or occasion. Here are some ideas:
– Classic brown sugar and mustard glaze: Sweet, tangy, and simple.
– Honey and orange juice glaze: Bright and floral with a natural sweetness.
– Fig and balsamic glaze: Rich, slightly sweet, and complex with a touch of acidity.
– Spiced glaze: Add cinnamon, cloves, or ginger for warm holiday flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Spiral glazed ham pairs wonderfully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Leftover ham can be used in soups, sandwiches, or salads, making it a versatile choice for your holiday table.
Cooking a spiral glazed ham is easier than you think, and the results are always impressive. With a little patience and a delicious glaze, you’ll have a juicy, flavorful ham that’s sure to be the star of any meal.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked spiral glazed ham!
Ready to impress your guests? Just follow these simple steps, and your spiral glazed ham will come out tender, juicy, and full of flavor every time.