Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham recipe

There are certain dishes that just scream “celebration,” and for my family, a beautifully glazed spiral-cut ham is right at the top of that list. Whether it’s Easter brunch, a holiday dinner, or even a special Sunday supper, the moment this ham emerges from the oven, golden brown and glistening, a sense of festivity fills the air. Honestly, for years, the thought of making a large ham felt intimidating. I imagined hours of complicated prep and a high risk of drying it out. Then I discovered the magic of spiral-cut hams – they’re practically foolproof! The spiral cut not only makes carving an absolute breeze, but it also allows the glaze to penetrate every single slice, infusing the ham with incredible flavor from edge to edge. And the glaze? That’s where the real magic happens. Over the years, I’ve experimented with countless glazes, from sweet and fruity to savory and spiced, and I’ve landed on a few family favorites that are guaranteed to impress. The aroma that fills the kitchen as the ham bakes, the anticipation as you pull it out of the oven, and the satisfied sighs around the table as everyone takes their first bite – it’s pure culinary joy. If you’re looking for a centerpiece dish that is both stunningly impressive and surprisingly easy to make, you absolutely have to try a Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will elevate any gathering and become a cherished tradition in your own home.

Ingredients for a Perfectly Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham

Creating a show-stopping Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham starts with selecting quality ingredients and understanding their roles in the final dish. The ham itself is the foundation, but the glaze is what truly elevates it from simple to spectacular. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to gather for a truly memorable Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham:

For the Star of the Show: The Spiral-Cut Ham

• 1 Spiral-Cut Ham (7-10 pounds): The centerpiece of this recipe, a spiral-cut ham is pre-cooked and ready to be heated and glazed. When choosing your ham, consider these factors:
  • Size: A 7-10 pound ham is ideal for serving 8-12 people, depending on appetites and side dishes. Adjust the size based on your guest count. Remember that ham bone can be used for soups afterward!
  • Bone-in vs. Boneless: Spiral-cut hams are typically bone-in, which contributes to flavor and moisture during cooking. Boneless options are available, but bone-in is generally preferred for richer flavor.
  • Smoked vs. Unsmoked: Most spiral-cut hams are smoked, which adds a characteristic smoky flavor that is delicious. You can find unsmoked options, but smoked is the classic choice.
  • Pre-cooked: Spiral-cut hams are always pre-cooked, meaning you are primarily heating them through and adding flavor with the glaze, not actually cooking them from raw.
  • Quality: Opt for a good quality ham from a reputable brand. Read labels and look for hams that are minimally processed and have good reviews.

For the Flavorful Glaze: Sweet & Savory Options

The glaze is where you can truly customize your spiral-cut ham and create a flavor profile that suits your taste preferences. Here are ingredients for two popular glaze options – a classic Brown Sugar & Mustard Glaze and a fruity Maple-Dijon Glaze:

Option 1: Brown Sugar & Mustard Glaze (Classic & Versatile)

• 1 cup Brown Sugar, packed: Brown sugar provides sweetness and a rich molasses flavor that caramelizes beautifully during baking, creating a gorgeous glaze. Light or dark brown sugar can be used – dark brown sugar will have a deeper molasses flavor.
• 1/2 cup Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard adds a tangy and savory counterpoint to the sweetness of the brown sugar. It also helps to balance the richness of the ham. Use a good quality Dijon mustard for the best flavor.
• 1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar adds acidity and brightness to the glaze, cutting through the sweetness and richness and creating a more balanced flavor profile. White wine vinegar or even orange juice can be used as substitutes.
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce: Worcestershire sauce adds a savory umami depth to the glaze, enhancing the overall flavor complexity.
• 1 tablespoon Honey (optional, for extra sweetness and shine): Honey adds extra sweetness and contributes to a glossy, beautiful glaze. Maple syrup can also be used as a substitute.
• 1 teaspoon Ground Cloves (optional, for warmth and spice): Ground cloves add a warm, subtly spicy note that complements the ham and other glaze ingredients. A pinch of ground cinnamon or allspice can also be used.

Option 2: Maple-Dijon Glaze (Fruity & Elegant)

• 1 cup Maple Syrup, pure: Pure maple syrup provides a distinctively sweet and slightly woody flavor that is delicious with ham. Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor, not pancake syrup.
• 1/2 cup Dijon Mustard: As in the Brown Sugar & Mustard Glaze, Dijon mustard adds tanginess and savory depth.
• 1/4 cup Orange Juice, fresh squeezed: Fresh squeezed orange juice adds brightness and a citrusy note that pairs beautifully with maple and ham. Canned or bottled orange juice can be used in a pinch, but fresh is preferred.
• 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar adds acidity and balance to the glaze.
• 1 tablespoon Soy Sauce (low sodium): Low sodium soy sauce adds a savory umami element without being overly salty. Tamari (gluten-free soy sauce) can also be used.
• 1 teaspoon Ground Ginger (optional, for warmth and spice): Ground ginger adds a warm, slightly spicy, and aromatic note that complements the maple and orange flavors. Freshly grated ginger can also be used, about 1 tablespoon.

Optional Ingredients for Both Glazes:

• Pineapple Juice (for basting): Pineapple juice can be used to baste the ham during baking, adding moisture and a subtle tropical sweetness.
• Whole Cloves (for studding): Whole cloves can be studded into the ham before glazing for visual appeal and a more intense clove flavor.
• Fresh Herbs (for garnish): Fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley can be used to garnish the ham after baking, adding a fresh and aromatic touch.

Choose the glaze option that appeals most to you and gather all your ingredients. Having everything measured and ready will make the glazing process smooth and efficient. Now, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions for creating your magnificent Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham

Making a Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham is surprisingly easy, especially because the ham is already cooked! The main steps involve heating the ham through and applying the delicious glaze. Follow these simple instructions for a guaranteed success:

Step 1: Prepare the Ham and Preheat the Oven

• Remove Ham from Packaging: Carefully remove the spiral-cut ham from its packaging. Discard any plastic wrapping or netting.
• Place Ham in Baking Pan: Place the ham cut-side down in a large roasting pan or baking dish. Using a roasting pan with a rack is ideal, as it allows air to circulate around the ham, but a baking dish will also work.
• Add Water or Broth to Pan (Optional): Pour about 1 cup of water, broth, or pineapple juice into the bottom of the pan. This helps to create steam and keep the ham moist during baking. Be sure the liquid doesn’t touch the ham directly if you are using a rack.
• Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This moderate temperature is perfect for gently heating the ham without drying it out.

Step 2: Heat the Ham (First Bake)

• Cover Ham with Foil: Tightly cover the baking pan with aluminum foil. This helps to trap moisture and prevent the ham from drying out during the initial heating process.
• Bake the Ham: Bake the ham in the preheated oven for approximately 10-12 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Use a meat thermometer to accurately check the internal temperature, inserting it into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone. For a 8-pound ham, this would be about 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes.
• Remove Foil (for Glazing): Once the ham has reached 140°F (60°C), carefully remove the foil from the baking pan.

Step 3: Prepare and Apply the Glaze

• Prepare the Glaze: While the ham is heating, prepare your chosen glaze (Brown Sugar & Mustard or Maple-Dijon). In a saucepan, whisk together all the glaze ingredients over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze slightly thickens and the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat.
• Glaze the Ham: Generously brush about half of the prepared glaze all over the ham, ensuring it gets into the spiral cuts. Use a pastry brush or spoon to apply the glaze evenly. If desired, stud the ham with whole cloves before glazing.

Step 4: Glaze and Bake Again (Second Bake)

• Bake Glazed Ham (Uncovered): Return the ham to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the glaze is nicely caramelized and the ham is heated through to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Continue to monitor the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
• Baste with Remaining Glaze (Optional): During the last 10 minutes of baking, you can baste the ham with the remaining glaze 1-2 times for an even thicker and shinier glaze. This is optional but recommended for a truly beautiful finish.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

• Rest the Ham: Once the ham is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before carving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the ham, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product. Tent it loosely with foil while resting.
• Carve and Serve: Spiral-cut hams are already pre-sliced, making carving incredibly easy. Simply run a knife along the bone to release the slices and serve. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Following these straightforward steps will result in a magnificent Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham that is both delicious and visually stunning. The combination of the savory ham and the flavorful glaze is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any special occasion.

Nutrition Facts for Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham

Understanding the nutritional content of Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham can be helpful for making informed dietary choices, especially during holiday meals. Please note that these are estimated nutrition facts and can vary depending on the specific ham, glaze ingredients, and portion sizes.

Serving Size: Approximately 3-4 ounces (85-113 grams) of ham (without bone or glaze weight considered)

Servings Per Recipe: Approximately 20-24 servings (from a 8-10 pound ham)

Estimated Nutrition Facts Per Serving (Ham Only, Glaze Adds Calories and Sugar):

• Calories: Approximately 180-250 calories
• Protein: 20-25 grams
• Fat: 8-15 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 3-6 grams
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5-9 grams
• Cholesterol: 60-80 mg
• Sodium: 800-1200 mg (Ham is naturally high in sodium)
• Carbohydrates: 2-5 grams (Primarily from naturally occurring sugars in ham, glaze adds significantly more carbohydrates and sugar)
  • Fiber: 0 grams
  • Sugar: 1-2 grams (Ham only, glaze adds significantly more sugar)

Estimated Nutrition Facts Per Serving (Including Glaze – Brown Sugar & Mustard Glaze Example):

• Calories: Approximately 250-350 calories
• Protein: 20-25 grams
• Fat: 8-15 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 3-6 grams
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5-9 grams
• Cholesterol: 60-80 mg
• Sodium: 850-1250 mg
• Carbohydrates: 15-25 grams
  • Fiber: 0 grams
  • Sugar: 12-20 grams

Important Considerations:

• Sodium Content: Ham is naturally high in sodium, and the glaze can add a bit more. Be mindful of sodium intake, especially if you are watching your sodium levels.
• Sugar Content: The glaze significantly increases the sugar content of the ham. Choose glaze recipes with lower sugar content or use sugar substitutes if desired. Maple-Dijon glaze may have slightly less refined sugar depending on the maple syrup used.
• Fat Content: Ham, even lean ham, contains fat. Trim visible fat before cooking to reduce fat content.
• Portion Size: Be mindful of portion sizes, especially during holiday meals where there are many tempting dishes. A 3-4 ounce serving is a reasonable portion of ham.
• Overall Diet: Enjoy Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Pair it with plenty of vegetables and whole grains to create a well-rounded meal.

For more precise nutritional information, you can use online recipe analyzers, inputting the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used, especially for your chosen glaze. Enjoy your delicious and celebratory Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham!

Preparation Time for Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham

Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham is surprisingly efficient to prepare, especially considering its impressive presentation. The pre-cooked nature of the ham significantly reduces cooking time. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated time involved:

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
  • This includes:
    • Removing ham from packaging
    • Preparing the glaze (whisking ingredients)
    • Preheating oven
    • Placing ham in baking pan
• Cook Time (Heating and Glazing): 1 hour 35 minutes – 2 hours (depending on ham size and oven)
  • First Bake (heating through): 1 hour 20 minutes – 1 hour 40 minutes (for 8-pound ham)
  • Second Bake (glazing): 15-20 minutes
• Rest Time: 10-15 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours – 2 hours 35 minutes

Tips to Speed Up Preparation:

• Make Glaze Ahead of Time: The glaze can be made up to a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it gently before using.
• Use Pre-minced Garlic (if using garlic in glaze): If your glaze recipe includes garlic, use pre-minced garlic from a jar to save a few minutes of chopping.
• Efficient Oven Preheating: Ensure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature before placing the ham inside to avoid delays.
• Read Ham Packaging Instructions: Always read the packaging instructions on your specific spiral-cut ham, as some brands may have slightly different heating recommendations.

While it’s not a super quick weeknight meal, Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham is remarkably efficient for a celebratory centerpiece. The majority of the time is hands-off oven time, allowing you to focus on preparing side dishes or spending time with guests.

How to Serve Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham

Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham is a versatile centerpiece that pairs beautifully with a wide array of side dishes, creating a memorable and satisfying meal. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

Classic Side Dish Pairings:

• Scalloped Potatoes or Au Gratin Potatoes: Creamy and cheesy potatoes are a classic accompaniment to ham, providing a rich and comforting side.
• Mashed Potatoes and Gravy: Fluffy mashed potatoes and gravy (made with ham drippings or chicken broth) are another traditional favorite that complements ham perfectly.
• Green Bean Casserole or Roasted Green Beans: Green beans, whether in a creamy casserole or simply roasted, offer a vegetable side that balances the richness of the ham.
• Cornbread or Dinner Rolls: Warm cornbread or soft dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up the delicious glaze and ham juices.
• Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy macaroni and cheese is a kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing side dish that pairs well with ham.
• Sweet Potato Casserole or Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes, whether in a casserole or roasted, offer a sweet and savory side that complements the ham’s flavors.
• Asparagus (Roasted or Steamed): Asparagus provides a light and fresh vegetable side that balances the richness of the ham.
• Pineapple Casserole or Grilled Pineapple: Pineapple, especially if using a glaze with pineapple juice, is a classic pairing with ham, offering a sweet and tangy contrast.

Salad and Lighter Side Options:

• Spring Salad with Vinaigrette: A fresh spring salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the ham.
• Fruit Salad or Ambrosia Salad: A fruit salad or ambrosia salad offers a sweet and refreshing side that complements the savory ham.
• Coleslaw or Broccoli Salad: Coleslaw or broccoli salad provides a crunchy and creamy side that balances the richness of the ham.

Serving Style and Garnishes:

• Platter Presentation: Arrange the carved ham slices on a large platter, garnished with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley. You can also add orange slices or pineapple wedges for visual appeal.
• Family Style: Serve the ham family-style, allowing guests to help themselves to slices and side dishes.
• Buffet Style: For larger gatherings, set up a buffet with the ham as the centerpiece, surrounded by side dishes, salads, and rolls.
• Gravy Boat (Optional): Offer a gravy boat with pan juices (if any) or a simple gravy made with ham drippings or chicken broth.
• Mustard and Relishes: Provide a selection of mustards (Dijon, honey mustard, whole grain mustard) and relishes (cranberry sauce, chutney, pineapple relish) for guests to customize their ham slices.

By offering a variety of complementary side dishes and considering the serving style, you can create a complete and memorable meal centered around your delicious Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham.

Additional Tips for a Perfect Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham

To ensure your Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham is consistently perfect and impresses every time, here are five additional tips to keep in mind:

1. Use a Meat Thermometer: Don’t rely solely on cooking time. A meat thermometer is essential for accurately determining the internal temperature of the ham and ensuring it’s heated to a safe and optimal temperature (140°F before glazing, 145°F after glazing). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone, for an accurate reading.
2. Don’t Overbake: Since spiral-cut hams are pre-cooked, the goal is to heat them through and caramelize the glaze, not to cook them further. Overbaking can dry out the ham. Use a meat thermometer and follow the recommended heating times closely. Remove the ham from the oven as soon as it reaches the target temperature.
3. Score the Ham (Optional, for Deeper Glaze Penetration): While spiral-cut hams are already sliced, you can lightly score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern before glazing. This creates even more surface area for the glaze to penetrate and caramelize, resulting in a more flavorful and visually appealing ham. Be careful not to cut too deep.
4. Let the Glaze Thicken Slightly: Simmering the glaze ingredients for a few minutes allows the glaze to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together. A slightly thickened glaze will adhere better to the ham and create a richer, more flavorful coating. Don’t over-thicken it to the point of becoming syrupy, but a slight reduction in volume is ideal.
5. Use Ham Bone for Soup: Don’t discard the ham bone! A ham bone is packed with flavor and can be used to make delicious and hearty soups, like ham and bean soup, split pea soup, or ham and lentil soup. Freeze the ham bone if you’re not planning to use it immediately. It’s a fantastic way to get the most out of your ham and extend your meal planning.

By following these additional tips, you’ll elevate your Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham from delicious to truly exceptional, making it a centerpiece that your family and guests will rave about.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham, to help you troubleshoot and ensure a perfect ham every time:

Q1: Can I glaze a ham the day before?

A: It’s not recommended to fully glaze the ham the day before baking, as the glaze can become sticky and the ham may become slightly soggy if stored for an extended period after glazing. However, you can prepare the glaze itself a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Then, when you’re ready to bake the ham, simply reheat the ham, apply the glaze, and bake for the final glazing step.

Q2: How do I prevent my ham from drying out?

A: To prevent your spiral-cut ham from drying out:

• Don’t Overbake: Use a meat thermometer and avoid overbaking. Heat it to the correct internal temperature (140°F before glazing, 145°F after glazing) and remove it promptly.
• Cover with Foil for Initial Heating: Covering the ham with foil for the initial heating process traps moisture and prevents drying.
• Add Liquid to the Pan: Adding water, broth, or pineapple juice to the bottom of the baking pan creates steam that helps to keep the ham moist.
• Don’t Skip Resting: Resting the ham after baking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and tender ham.

Q3: Can I use a different type of glaze?

A: Yes, absolutely! There are countless glaze variations for spiral-cut ham. Feel free to experiment with different flavor profiles. Some popular options include:

• Honey Mustard Glaze: Combine honey, Dijon mustard, and a touch of vinegar or lemon juice.
• Apricot Glaze: Use apricot preserves as a base, thinned with orange juice or water, and add Dijon mustard or ginger.
• Cherry Glaze: Use cherry preserves or cherry juice as a base, adding balsamic vinegar and spices like cinnamon or cloves.
• Bourbon Glaze: Incorporate bourbon into a brown sugar and mustard glaze for a richer, more complex flavor.
• Spicy Glaze: Add chili flakes, sriracha, or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to your favorite glaze for a spicy kick.

Q4: How long should I heat a spiral-cut ham?

A: The heating time for a spiral-cut ham depends on its size. A general guideline is to heat it for 10-12 minutes per pound at 325°F (160°C) until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) before glazing, and then continue baking for another 15-20 minutes after glazing until it reaches 145°F (63°C). Always use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate temperature and don’t rely solely on time.

Q5: Can I freeze leftover Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham?

A: Yes, leftover Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham can be frozen. Let the ham cool completely, then slice it into smaller portions or cubes. Wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or place it in freezer-safe bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat leftover ham gently in the oven, microwave, or skillet to prevent drying it out. Frozen ham is great for sandwiches, soups, casseroles, and other dishes.

By understanding these FAQs, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any questions or challenges that may arise when making your delicious Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham, ensuring a successful and stress-free cooking experience!

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