Spiral ham is a holiday staple that brings both elegance and comfort to the dinner table. Originally made popular in the United States, this pre-sliced bone-in ham offers a beautiful presentation and delicious flavor with minimal effort. Its signature spiral cut allows glaze to seep into every bite, creating a perfect harmony of sweet, salty, and savory.
Whether you’re preparing Easter brunch, Thanksgiving dinner, or a festive Christmas feast, spiral ham is an irresistible centerpiece. With its caramelized crust, tender meat, and customizable glazes, it has earned its place in homes and hearts across the country.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
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1 spiral-cut bone-in ham (8–10 lbs)
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1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
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½ cup honey or maple syrup
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¼ cup Dijon mustard
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½ cup pineapple juice (or orange juice)
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
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½ tsp ground cloves
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1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
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2 tbsp unsalted butter
Optional Substitutions:
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Maple syrup in place of honey for a more rustic sweetness
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Agave nectar for a vegan-friendly glaze
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Mustard-free glaze for a milder flavor
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Gluten-free: Ensure mustard and vinegar are certified gluten-free
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Low-sugar: Use monk fruit sweetener or stevia-blend substitutes
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Preheat and Prep
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Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
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Unwrap the ham and remove any plastic disk covering the bone. Place the ham flat side down in a large roasting pan.
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Score and Tent
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Although spiral hams are pre-sliced, lightly scoring the top in a crosshatch pattern helps the glaze penetrate better.
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Cover the ham loosely with foil to prevent it from drying out.
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Bake the Ham
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Bake for about 12–15 minutes per pound. For a 9 lb ham, that’s roughly 2 to 2.5 hours.
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Make the Glaze
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In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and mix in brown sugar, honey, mustard, juice, vinegar, and spices. Simmer until thick and syrupy (8–10 minutes).
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Glaze and Finish
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Remove foil during the last 30 minutes.
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Brush the glaze generously over the ham every 10 minutes.
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For a caramelized finish, broil for the last 3–5 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
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Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
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Use a meat thermometer: The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C).
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Keep it moist: Add ½ cup of water or juice to the bottom of the pan to create steam.
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Rest before carving: Let the ham sit for 15 minutes post-oven to redistribute juices.
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Use a silicone brush for smooth glaze application and minimal disruption to slices.
Variations and Customizations
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Vegetarian alternative: Use smoked tofu or jackfruit with the same glaze.
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Spicy glaze: Add 1 tsp of crushed red pepper or chipotle powder.
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Southern style: Swap pineapple juice for peach nectar and add bourbon.
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Asian fusion: Use soy sauce, ginger, and hoisin in your glaze.
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Low-carb: Use sugar-free syrups and natural sweeteners.
Serving Suggestions
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Presentation: Place the ham on a large platter garnished with orange slices, herbs (like rosemary or thyme), and glazed carrots.
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Perfect pairings:
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Mashed sweet potatoes
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Green bean almondine
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Cheddar biscuits
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Spicy cranberry sauce
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Beverage ideas: Sparkling cider, pinot noir, or a light lager complement it well.
Nutritional Information (per 6 oz serving, approx.)
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Calories: 310
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Protein: 22g
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Carbohydrates: 16g
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Sugars: 13g
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Fat: 17g
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Saturated Fat: 6g
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Sodium: 1,150mg
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Cholesterol: 60mg
Note: Nutritional values will vary based on brand and glaze ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long can I store leftover spiral ham?
Store in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze tightly wrapped portions for up to 2 months.
How do I reheat it without drying out the meat?
Wrap slices in foil with a bit of broth or juice and warm at 275°F for 10–15 minutes.
Can I make spiral ham in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on low for 4–5 hours with the glaze, then broil in the oven for 5 minutes to caramelize.
Is spiral ham already cooked?
Yes, most are fully cooked. You’re essentially reheating and adding flavor with the glaze.
Do I need to remove the rind?
If your ham has a thick rind, it’s best to remove it before applying the glaze.
Closing Thoughts
Spiral ham is more than just a holiday meal—it’s a symbol of celebration, comfort, and culinary tradition. With the right glaze and a few expert tips, you’ll create a dish that earns compliments year after year. Give it your twist, snap a photo, and don’t forget to share your delicious creation with us. Happy cooking!
