Make your holiday meal unforgettable with this classic Christmas ham recipe! Glazed with a sweet and tangy blend of honey, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard, this tender and juicy ham is the perfect centerpiece for your Christmas dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need Christmas Ham Recipe

• 1 bone-in ham (8-10 lbs)
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 cup apple cider or orange juice
• Whole cloves (optional, for decoration)

How to Make Christmas Ham Recipe

1. Prepare the Ham:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Place the ham in a roasting pan, cut side down. Score the surface in a diamond pattern, about 1/4 inch deep, and stud with whole cloves if desired.

2. Make the Glaze:

• In a small saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and apple cider. Heat over medium heat, stirring, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly.

3. Bake the Ham:

1. Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
2. Brush the ham with the glaze every 20-30 minutes during baking.

4. Caramelize the Glaze:

• For a beautifully caramelized finish, remove the foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking and let the glaze bubble and brown.

5. Rest and Serve:

1. Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
2. Serve with additional glaze on the side for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions Christmas Ham Recipe

This ham pairs beautifully with:

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Maple-roasted Brussels sprouts
• Classic dinner rolls
• Cranberry sauce

Why This Recipe Works

• Sweet and Savory: The honey and brown sugar glaze balances perfectly with the saltiness of the ham.
• Beautiful Presentation: Scoring the ham and adding cloves creates a festive, decorative centerpiece.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps make this recipe approachable for any home cook.

Pro Tips for Perfect Christmas Ham

• Choose the Right Ham: Use a fully cooked, bone-in ham for the best flavor and texture.
• Baste Regularly: Brushing with glaze during baking keeps the ham moist and flavorful.
• Don’t Overcook: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham stays juicy and doesn’t dry out.

Storage Guidelines

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: Wrap leftover ham tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm slices in a covered dish with a bit of water in the oven at 325°F (165°C).