Deck your holiday table with a mouthwatering, showstopping centerpiece: a Christmas ham! So, here are some sweet and savory ideas to make a dish that tastes just as good as it looks.
1. Christmas Ham in a Crockpot
When it comes to cooking for a feast, my secret is finding the easiest, most convenient recipes that still pack a punch in flavor — and this one definitely fits the bill because everything comes together in a slow cooker.
For the complete recipe, click here.
2. Baked Ham With Pineapple
This recipe is not only succulent and smoky, but it also exudes tropical flavors thanks to the pineapple and brown sugar honey glaze. Plus, it’s topped with cherries, making it a fun and elegant centerpiece for the holidays!
Want to give this a try? Click here.
3. Ham Steak With Apricot Glaze
Here’s a little culinary delight that blends the smokiness of the ham with the fruitness and slight tanginess of the apricot glaze. The result is a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and sticky!
Check out the step-by-step instructions: click here.
4. Maple-Glazed Ham
This tender, moist ham is finished off with a simple, sweet-spicy glaze made from maple syrup, mustard, and a handful of holiday spices. It’s an incredibly festive dish that will warm your spirits this season.
Ready to get started? Click here.
5. Baked Ham With Italian Glaze
With this recipe, you won’t have to worry about serving dry, bland ham this Christmas. It’s juicy, full of flavor, and a step up from your ordinary baked ham.
All thanks to the flavorful Italian ham seasoning and glaze, made with Madeira wine, white wine, sugar, thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, garlic, bay leaf, and just a hint of nutmeg.
Recreate this at home: click here.
6. Christmas Ham Wrapped in Puff Pastry
Instead of covering your ham with the traditional pineapple rings and cherries, this version uses a puff pastry to seal in all the goodness while adding a light, crispy, and flaky texture!
For the full recipe, click here.
7. Dr. Pepper Glazed Ham
I know what you’re thinking: Dr. Pepper and ham — sounds a little unusual, right? But trust me, this recipe will surprise you in the best way.
Here’s what you’ll need: a can of soda (yes, Dr. Pepper), brown sugar, Dijon mustard, orange juice, and, of course, the star of the show — your ham.
Got your ingredients? Let’s get cooking! Click here.
8. Simple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham
Ham is as easy to serve as it is to prepare. For this recipe, all you need to elevate this humble centerpiece is a simple glaze made from brown sugar, pineapple juice, honey, mustard, and spices!
Give this a try! Click here.
9. Double-Smoked Ham
Most store-bought hams are already smoked and pre-cooked, so your job is simple: amp up the flavor! A second round in the smoker, paired with a homemade glaze, takes it to the next level.
Speaking of glaze, this one is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy — exactly what you want for your holiday feast. It’s got cherry preserves, honey, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard.
Ready to get started? Click here.
10. Spiced Ginger Ale and Rum-Glazed Ham
Give your Christmas ham a fresh, modern spin with a spiced ginger ale and rum glaze.
Unlike other sodas, ginger ale brings just the right sweetness while adding a subtle, spicy kick. It doesn’t just keep the ham moist — it also adds a whole new layer of flavor.
Recreate this at home: Click here.
11. Orange-Glazed Ham
This glaze couldn’t be easier — it’s made with just three ingredients: orange marmalade, brown sugar, and honey.
Together, they create a bright, sweet flavor that caramelizes beautifully over the ham, turning it into a marvelous centerpiece.
Want to get this recipe? Click here.
12. Honey-Glazed Smoked Ham
Sure, you could just warm up a pre-cooked ham and call it a day, but why stop there? The goal is to serve a main course so good, the whole family won’t stop talking about it.
So, if you want to make things interesting, try this honey-glazed smoked ham. It starts with a sweet and spicy dry rub, followed by a flavorful baste of pineapple-mustard sauce while it smokes.
Then, for the grand finale, drizzle a glossy glaze over the top. This one’s a guaranteed show-stopper your guests will be raving about for days.
Ready to get started? Click here.
13. Pineapple Bourbon Glazed Ham
Looking to give your ham a unique twist? This pineapple bourbon glazed ham is just the thing! Whether it’s for a holiday celebration or a simple family gathering, this recipe delivers.
The tangy pineapple bourbon glaze pairs perfectly with the rich, smoky flavor of the ham, making it a standout dish everyone will love.
Try it for yourself: Click here.
14. Pressure Cooker Ham
Short on time? Pressure-cooking your ham is a game-changer. With this method, your main dish will be ready in under an hour — and the results are incredible!
You’ll end up with a ham that’s succulent, ultra-juicy, and so tender it practically melts in your mouth.
If you’re interested in exploring this cooking method, Click here.
15. Air Fryer Ham
Ever tried air frying a whole ham? I hadn’t either… until this recipe, and let me tell you, the outcome was a delightful surprise.
To start, you’ll need a boneless ham. Then, grab your butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar to make an irresistible glaze. When combined, you’ll end up with a dish that’s rich, sweet, and oozing with warm festive flavors!
Get the step-by-step breakdown: Click here.
16. Old-Fashioned Holiday Glazed Ham
An old-fashioned ham is already cured and smoked, so you don’t need much to make it shine.
For this classic recipe, you’ll need a few key ingredients: a spiral-sliced bone-in ham, pineapple juice and slices, brown sugar, honey, cloves, Dijon mustard, and Maraschino cherries.
If you want to make this for your next gathering, click here.
17. Pellet Grill Ham With Apple Cider Glaze
In just 3 hours, you can take a smoky 10-pound ham from the pellet grill to the table. And this recipe features an apple cider glaze made by melting brown sugar with apple cider on the stove.
This is a must-try, so click here!
18. Salt Cured Ham
Making a wet-brined, cured ham isn’t complicated, but it does take a little patience.
The basics you’ll need are water, salt, and curing salt — the key ingredient that gives the ham its signature pink color and helps preserve it.
While the process is simple, you’ll need to plan ahead to give the brine enough time to work its magic!
Make your own cured ham at home: click here.
19. Crockpot Spiral Ham
Besides the ham, all you need are 5 ingredients to get an ideal balance of sweet, tangy, and a little kick.
These are brown sugar, maple syrup, pineapple juice, spicy brown mustard, and balsamic vinegar. Once you’ve got everything, just set it and forget it — let the crockpot do its magic!
This recipe is a total breeze. It’s perfect for anyone looking for minimal effort and maximum flavor!
So, what are you waiting for? Click here.
20. Maple Dijon Ham Glaze
This Maple Glazed Ham is baked to perfection with a simple yet delicious glaze made from Dijon mustard, maple syrup, butter, and brown sugar.
Wondering what sides to serve with this stunning main dish? Try pairing it with a fresh strawberry poppyseed salad, creamy au gratin potatoes, or honey-glazed veggies topped with feta and mint.
For the full recipe, click here.
Wrap Up Your Holiday Feast With the Perfect Christmas Ham
‘Tis the season for cooking and serving up delicious Christmas hams!
With so many flavorful options at your fingertips, you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect centerpiece to bring warmth and festive cheer to your table!
Featured image credit to @lowfodmapcooking.
