Name: Glazed Spiral Ham Recipe That Will Steal the Show
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 120 min
Total time: 160 min
Ingredients: 1 whole Spiral-Cut Ham (The star of the dish, juicy and tender.); 1 cup Brown Sugar (Infuses sweetness and aids in caramelization.); 1/2 cup Dijon Mustard (Adds tangy depth.); 1/4 cup Honey (Another sweet element.); 1 tablespoon Orange Zest (Optional, adds citrusy brightness.); 1 teaspoon Spices (e.g., cinnamon) (Optional, for added flavor complexity.)

As the ham sizzles in the oven, I’m transported back to family gatherings, where laughter and the smell of something special filled the air. This Perfect Glazed Spiral Ham Recipe takes me right to those cherished moments, blending sweet brown sugar and zesty Dijon mustard into a glossy, caramelized glaze that’ll have everyone asking for the secret. Not only is it remarkably easy to prepare—making it a go-to for holidays and festive dinners—but it also ensures your table becomes the centerpiece of joy and togetherness. Whether it’s Easter, Christmas, or just a cozy Sunday, this mouthwatering dish transforms any meal into a celebration. Are you ready to impress your guests with a show-stopping glazed ham that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat?

Why is Glazed Spiral Ham a Must-Try?

Simplicity at Its Best: With just a few ingredients, this recipe is incredibly straightforward, perfect for cooks of any skill level.

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet brown sugar and tangy Dijon mustard creates a glaze that elevates the ham’s deliciousness to new heights.

Versatile Dish: Ideal for holidays like Easter and Christmas or as a comforting Sunday dinner, this glazed ham adapts to any occasion seamlessly.

Crowd-Pleaser: No one can resist the aroma of this savory treat as it bakes. It’s guaranteed to impress family and friends, leaving them to ask for your recipe!

Luscious Leftovers: Don’t forget the delectable leftovers! Use them in sandwiches or omelets, and keep any pan juices to drizzle over your creations. For more delicious ideas, check out my Garlic Butter Potatoes or Protein Biscuits Ham.

Glazed Spiral Ham Ingredients

• Perfect ingredients for a show-stopper!

For the Ham

Spiral-Cut Ham – The star of the dish, offering that juicy, tender texture everyone loves.

For the Glaze

Brown Sugar – Infuses sweetness and helps create that irresistible caramelized crust; maple syrup can work as a great substitute!
Dijon Mustard – Adds a tangy depth that perfectly balances the sweetness of the brown sugar.
Honey – Serves as another sweetener in the glaze; feel free to swap with maple syrup for a unique flavor!
Orange Zest (optional) – Brightens the glaze with a hint of citrus; a refreshing touch that’s simply delightful.
Spices (e.g., cinnamon) – Elevates the flavor complexity; optional for those who want a milder taste.

Use these ingredients to create a glazed spiral ham recipe that will steal the show on any festive table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Perfect Glazed Spiral Ham Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C), creating a warm environment perfect for baking your delicious glazed spiral ham. This temperature ensures an even heating process, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully as it cooks. While the oven warms up, gather your equipment: a large roasting pan and aluminum foil to cover the ham during the initial baking stage.

Step 2: Prepare the Ham
Next, take your spiral-cut ham and place it on the roasting pan, cut side down. Score the surface of the ham with shallow cuts—about an inch apart—to help the glaze penetrate deeply and enhance the flavor. This step not only improves the absorption of the glaze but also provides a stunning visual when served, as the glaze will caramelize beautifully in the oven.

Step 3: Mix the Glaze
In a medium bowl, combine brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey, and any optional spices you’d like to include, such as cinnamon. Stir the mixture until it forms a thick, sticky glaze that’s well-combined. This sweet and tangy concoction will create the signature caramelized crust on your perfect glazed spiral ham. Have a brush ready to apply the glaze evenly all over the ham.

Step 4: Apply the Glaze
Generously brush the prepared glaze all over the surface of the ham, ensuring it seeps into the scored cuts. Make sure to completely cover the ham to ensure a rich, flavorful crust. This step is crucial for achieving that glossy finish that will impress your guests. Once glazed, allow the ham to sit for a few minutes to let the flavors meld before moving to the next step.

Step 5: Bake the Ham
Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in as it bakes. Place the roasting pan in your preheated oven, and bake for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the size of your ham. During this time, the ham will get tender and juicy, with the glaze bubbling gently, providing a sweet aroma that fills your kitchen.

Step 6: Baste Periodically
Every 30 minutes or so, carefully remove the foil and baste the ham with its juices and a little additional glaze if desired. This technique ensures the ham stays moist and enhances the flavor. Watch the ham’s color carefully; if it begins to darken too much, re-cover it with foil to prevent burning. This will help achieve that perfect glazed spiral ham appearance.

Step 7: Rest Before Carving
Once the baking time is complete and the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C), remove it from the oven. Let the ham rest for at least 15 to 20 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful. After resting, carve the ham into beautiful slices, ready to be served at your festive table.

Expert Tips for Perfect Glazed Spiral Ham

Monitor the Glaze: Keep an eye on the glaze color as it bakes; if it gets too dark, loosely cover with foil to prevent burning.

Let it Rest: Allow your ham to rest after baking; this vital step retains the moisture for tender, juicy slices when served.

Creative Leftovers: Use leftover ham in various dishes like sandwiches, omelets, or soups to avoid waste and enjoy new flavors.

Flavor Boost: Add crushed pineapple or apricot preserves to the glaze for a fruity twist that beautifully complements the classic glazed spiral ham recipe.

Consistent Basting: Baste your ham every 30 minutes during baking for a rich, flavorful crust and added moisture throughout cooking.

How to Store and Freeze Glazed Spiral Ham

Fridge: Keep leftover glazed spiral ham in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, tightly wrapped in aluminum foil or stored in an airtight container to maintain moisture.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap the ham slices in plastic wrap, then in foil, or place them in freezer-safe bags. Glazed spiral ham can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 15–20 minutes or until heated through, ensuring to keep it covered to prevent dryness.

Leftovers Usage: Embrace the delicious leftovers by adding them to sandwiches, salads, or omelets, ensuring none of your tasty glazed spiral ham goes to waste.

Make Ahead Options

These Perfect Glazed Spiral Ham preparations are fantastic for busy cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the glaze (mixing brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey, and spices) up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it until you’re ready to use. Additionally, you can score the ham and apply the glaze, then cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, ensure the ham is tightly wrapped to prevent any drying out. When it’s time to cook, simply preheat the oven and bake as instructed. You’ll have a delectable glazed ham ready to delight your family with minimal last-minute effort!

Glazed Spiral Ham Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize your glazed spiral ham to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!

Bourbon-Infused: Add a splash of bourbon to the glaze for a rich, smoky flavor. The sweetness of the brown sugar balances the heat of the bourbon beautifully.
Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium spiral ham to enjoy the classic dish with less salt. This swap is perfect for health-conscious eaters while still delivering flavor.
Fruity Twist: Incorporate crushed pineapple or apricot preserves into the glaze mixture for a sweet, fruity undertone that brightens the overall flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: If you love some heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a spicy surprise. This twist elevates the ham’s flavor into a new level of excitement!
Herbaceous Touch: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the glaze for an aromatic flavor boost. This adds an earthy note that complements the sweetness of the glaze.
Citrus Burst: Squeeze fresh orange juice into the glaze for added brightness and acidity. The hint of citrus will perfectly balance the sweetness of the brown sugar.
Maple-Sweetened: Swap out brown sugar for pure maple syrup to create a delightful maple glaze. This swap gives the ham a different kind of sweetness, perfect for a cozy brunch!
Savory Garlic: Brush the ham with garlic-infused oil before glazing for a robust flavor. The savory garlic pairs well with the sweetness of the brown sugar.

Every choice provides a unique twist on this classic dish, making your glazed ham a showstopper at any holiday dinner. For side dishes that complement this recipe, try my Garlic Butter Potatoes or savory Protein Biscuits Ham for an unforgettable meal!

What to Serve with Perfect Glazed Spiral Ham

As you revel in the deliciousness of your glazed spiral ham, consider vibrant sides that bring color and flavor to the table, creating a harmonious meal.

Buttery Mashed Potatoes: The creaminess of mashed potatoes pairs beautifully with the savory sweetness of the ham, creating a comforting classic.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their charred, crisp leaves add a delightful crunch, balancing the ham’s tenderness while enhancing the overall meal experience.
Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a light contrast to the rich flavors of the ham, brightening each bite.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots drizzled with honey echo the ham’s glaze, creating a wonderful synergy of flavors that’s simply irresistible.
Scalloped Potatoes: The creamy layers provide a sumptuous texture that complements the tender ham while the cheese adds a savory punch to the dish.
Savory Corn Pudding: This sweet and savory dish brings a gentle sweetness that enhances the glaze, making each bite a delightful surprise.
Cranberry Sauce: A side of homemade cranberry sauce adds a tart kick that cuts through the richness of the ham, offering a refreshing layer to the meal.
Sparkling Cider: To drink, a glass of sparkling cider espouses festive flavors, making it a perfect pairing for holiday gatherings centered around your glazed spiral ham.
Pumpkin Pie: For dessert, a slice of pumpkin pie rounds off the meal with warm spices and sweetness, evoking feelings of nostalgia and comfort.

Perfect Glazed Spiral Ham Recipe FAQs

How do I select the perfect spiral-cut ham?
Absolutely! Look for a ham that has a shiny, unblemished skin with a good amount of marbling—this means it’s likely to be juicy and flavorful. Ideally, choose a ham that’s labeled “pre-cooked,” as this saves you cooking time while ensuring even tenderness.

How can I store leftover glazed spiral ham?
You can store leftover glazed spiral ham in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container to keep it moist and flavorful. Just remember to let the ham cool to room temperature before storing to avoid condensation.

Can I freeze glazed spiral ham?
Yes, you can freeze glazed spiral ham for up to 2 months! First, slice the ham into portions for easy serving later. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place them in freezer-safe bags, ensuring as much air as possible is removed to prevent freezer burn.

What are some troubleshooting tips if my ham turns out dry?
Very! If your ham ends up dry, it could be due to overcooking. Always use a meat thermometer, aiming for an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) when reheating. You can also slice the ham and serve it with pan juices or a homemade gravy to add moisture and enhance flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
For sure! The glazed spiral ham can be accommodating to various diets. If someone is sensitive to gluten, ensure the Dijon mustard is gluten-free. Additionally, consider swapping out honey for maple syrup to make it suitable for those with honey allergies.

How can I use leftover glazed spiral ham creatively?
Using leftovers is a fantastic idea! You can chop them up and toss them into a hearty omelet or use them in a savory quiche. Alternatively, pile slices onto bread for delicious sandwiches, or add to soups for a protein boost and additional flavor. The more the merrier when it comes to getting creative with your leftovers!