In the hustle and bustle of holiday preparations, there’s an unmistakable thrill that comes when you unveil a stunning centerpiece: a beautifully glazed Maple Glazed Ham. This dish not only serves as a feast for the eyes but also brings the warmth of the season right to your dinner table. With its irresistible sweet and sticky glaze, this Christmas Maple Glazed Ham is both a crowd-pleaser and a fantastic bonding moment for family and friends to gather around. Its quick prep and make-ahead options mean you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time creating memories. Have you ever wondered how a simple ham can transform an ordinary celebration into a cherished holiday tradition? Dive in and discover the magic behind this festive favorite!

Why Is This Ham So Special?

Irresistibly Sweet: The combination of rich maple syrup and brown sugar creates a sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully, drawing everyone to the table.

Easy Prep: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, there’s no need for culinary expertise—just passion for home-cooked happiness!

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for holiday gatherings, this dish stirs up warm conversations and sweet memories, making it a showstopper for any festive occasion.

Make-Ahead: Enjoy stress-free festivities! Prepare ahead and save time on the big day, leaving more moments to share with loved ones.

Versatile Variations: Feel free to experiment with flavors—try substituting with honey or adding fragrant spices like nutmeg. For other delicious ideas, explore my recipes for Maple Glazed Bacon and Keto Fried Ham.

This delightful Christmas Maple Glazed Ham is sure to elevate any celebration!

Christmas Maple Glazed Ham Ingredients

• Here’s what you need to create a delightful Christmas Maple Glazed Ham.

For the Ham

Leg Ham (5 kg / 10 lb) – This bone-in, skin-on ham is the primary source of flavor and moisture; choose a pre-cooked version for best results.
Cloves (30, optional) – Studding the ham with cloves adds a decorative touch and enhances the aroma during cooking.
Oranges (2, quartered) – These introduce a natural sweetness and a bright, citrusy note to the drippings; if you’re out of oranges, you can swap them with 1/2 cup of fruit juice.
Water (1 cup / 250ml) – Crucial for creating steam in the oven, which helps keep the ham dreamy and moist.

For the Glaze

Maple Syrup (3/4 cup / 185ml) – This ingredient is essential for achieving that irresistible sticky glaze; if needed, substitute it with honey.
Brown Sugar (3/4 cup / 165g, packed) – Provides the sweetness and caramelization you crave; make sure it’s packed well for proper consistency.
Dijon Mustard (3 tbsp) – Adds a touch of tang and helps thicken the glaze; feel free to switch it up with any mustard you have on hand.
Ground Cinnamon (3/4 tsp) – Infuses the ham with a warm, festive flavor; perfect for the holiday spirit!
All Spice (1/2 tsp, or nutmeg) – Enhances the depth of the glaze with its warm complexity; you can use nutmeg as a substitute if you prefer.

With these carefully selected ingredients, your Christmas Maple Glazed Ham will become a centerpiece of joy and celebration at your table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Maple Glazed Ham

Step 1: Preparation
Start by removing your leg ham (5 kg / 10 lb, bone-in, skin-on) from the refrigerator to bring it to room temperature, about 1 hour before cooking. Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). This allows the ham to cook evenly and ensures a juicy texture. Set up a large roasting pan to accommodate the ham comfortably.

Step 2: Glaze Preparation
In a medium mixing bowl, combine 3/4 cup of maple syrup, 3/4 cup of packed brown sugar, 3 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 3/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of all spice. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. This delightful glaze will enhance your Christmas Maple Glazed Ham with sweetness and festive flavors.

Step 3: Remove Rind
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut around the rind of the ham, loosening it with your fingers to peel it off completely. This step is crucial for ensuring the glaze can adhere properly to the meat. Removing the rind will allow the sugar and spices to penetrate the ham’s surface, resulting in a beautifully caramelized exterior.

Step 4: Score the Ham
With the rind removed, lightly score the fat on the ham in a diamond pattern, making cuts about 1 inch deep. This technique not only helps the glaze adhere better but also allows fats to render during baking, creating a beautifully sticky finish. Visualize those deep scored cuts becoming golden as the ham bakes.

Step 5: Studding (Optional)
For added decoration and flavor, take the optional cloves and attach them at the intersections of the diamonds you’ve scored. This step is not only aesthetically pleasing but also introduces a subtle aromatic flavor that complements the sweetness of the glaze during the baking process.

Step 6: Glazing and Baking
Place the ham in the roasting pan, squeezing orange juice over the surface and scattering the quartered oranges around it for added flavor. Brush half of the prepared glaze generously over the ham. Then, pour 1 cup of water into the pan to keep the meat moist while it bakes. This will create steam, resulting in a juicy Christmas Maple Glazed Ham.

Step 7: Bake
Transfer the pan to the preheated oven, baking for 1.5 to 2 hours. Baste the ham every 30 minutes with the remaining glaze and pan juices to achieve a thick, sticky coating. Look for a beautifully golden, caramelized crust as the ham cooks, signaling that it’s nearly ready to serve.

Step 8: Rest and Serve
Once your ham has reached the perfect golden exterior, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Before slicing, baste once more with the pan juices for a lustrous finish, ensuring your Christmas Maple Glazed Ham is as visually stunning as it is delicious.

Storage Tips for Christmas Maple Glazed Ham

Fridge: Store leftover ham tightly wrapped in aluminum foil or in an airtight container for up to 1 week. This keeps it fresh and ready for delicious sandwiches!

Freezer: You can freeze slices of Christmas Maple Glazed Ham for up to 3 months. Be sure to wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag for easy access.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 15–20 minutes, ensuring it stays moist and flavorful.

Leaving Up to the Glaze: If your glaze has set and resulted in a bit of a crust, a splash of orange juice or a drizzle of maple syrup during reheating will help restore that tasty stickiness.

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Maple Glazed Ham preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the glaze (maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cinnamon, and all spice) up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain flavor and quality. Additionally, you can score the ham and stud it with cloves before covering it tightly with plastic wrap and storing it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply bring the ham to room temperature, add the glaze, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have a stunning centerpiece with minimal effort, allowing you to focus on making memories with your loved ones!

What to Serve with Maple Glazed Ham

Elevate your festive dinner with delightful sides that beautifully complement the sweet and savory flavors of this classic centerpiece.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery smoothness of these potatoes balances the ham’s sweetness perfectly, creating a comforting duo.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness adds a wonderful contrast, enhancing the meal’s overall flavor profile while providing a pop of color.
Honey Glazed Carrots: The sweetness of these tender carrots harmonizes beautifully with the maple glaze, making every bite a treat.
Cranberry Sauce: A bright burst of tartness cuts through the richness of the ham, refreshing your palate with every forkful.
Green Bean Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans sprinkled with toasty almonds offer a delightful crunch, adding texture to your festive spread.
Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy rolls are perfect for soaking up the delicious glaze and pan juices, creating an irresistible experience with each bite.
Wine Pairing: A light Pinot Noir complements the ham’s flavors, making it a lovely choice for the celebratory atmosphere of your holiday gathering.

Each of these delightful pairings ensures your Christmas Maple Glazed Ham takes center stage, while your guests leave with their hearts and bellies full!

Expert Tips for Christmas Maple Glazed Ham

Rind Retention: Ensure the ham has the rind intact for a sticky glaze; removing it too early may prevent proper caramelization.
Generous Basting: Baste liberally every 30 minutes with the glaze and pan juices to elevate flavor and achieve a thick, shiny coating on your Christmas Maple Glazed Ham.
Foil Protection: If the surface browns too quickly during baking, shield it with foil to prevent burning while ensuring the inside stays juicy.
Rest Period: Allow the ham to rest for about 20 minutes after baking; this step is vital for maintaining moisture and enhancing flavor.
Storage Savvy: Store any leftovers properly by wrapping them in foil or using a vinegar-soaked ham bag to keep them fresh for longer.

Variations & Substitutions for Christmas Maple Glazed Ham

Nothing says family love quite like putting your own twist on a classic recipe—let these variations inspire your creativity in the kitchen!

Honey Glaze: Swap maple syrup for honey for a lighter, floral sweetness that adds a different depth to the glaze.
Brown Sugar Ham Glaze: Use a simple mixture of brown sugar and mustard instead of maple syrup for a robust alternative that’s equally sweet.
Citrus Kick: Add zest from the oranges or mix in lemon juice for a refreshing citrus flavor that brightens the sweetness beautifully. It’s like a burst of sunshine!
Spicy Twist: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the glaze for a slight kick that balances the sweetness—perfect for those who enjoy a little heat!
Pineapple Infusion: Swap out the oranges for pineapple, either in juice or as slices, adding a tropical twist to your glazed ham and a delightful burst of flavor.
Nutty Variation: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the glaze during the last 15 minutes of baking for a lovely crunch that complements the glossy finish.
Maple Mustard Combo: Combine equal parts maple syrup and mustard for a tangy glaze that harmonizes with the natural sweetness of the ham—an unexpected but delightful choice.
Herbaceous Touch: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can be added to the glaze for an earthy aroma that elevates the festive experience, creating a deliciously fragrant dish.

Feel free to blend and match these ideas according to your family’s tastes! And if you’re interested in more scrumptious flavors, try my delicious recipes for Orange Glazed Salmon or my comforting Ham Cheese Croissant. With these variations, your Christmas Maple Glazed Ham will surely become a favorite family tradition!

Christmas Maple Glazed Ham Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ham for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing your leg ham, look for a bone-in, skin-on cut weighing around 5 kg (10 lb). Ensure it’s pre-cooked for flavor and convenience. A glaze requires a good foundation, so selecting a ham that’s moist and juicy is key; avoid any that show signs of dark spots or excessive dryness on the surface.

What’s the best way to store leftover ham?
Leftover Christmas Maple Glazed Ham should be tightly wrapped in aluminum foil or placed in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for about 1 week. This method will keep it moist and flavorful for enjoyable sandwiches or quick reheats.

Can I freeze this ham, and how?
Yes, you can freeze your Christmas Maple Glazed Ham! Slice it into individual portions, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It’s perfect for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in the oven to maintain that juicy tenderness.

What if my ham glaze isn’t sticky enough?
Very! If you find your glaze hasn’t thickened as expected, it could be due to not enough basting or insufficient cooking time. Return the ham to the oven, and allow it to bake for an additional 20–30 minutes while basting every 10 minutes. You can also create a paste with leftover glaze by simmering it in a saucepan until it thickens, and then brush it over the ham before serving!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
The Christmas Maple Glazed Ham is generally suitable for most diets; just check specific allergies related to ingredients like mustard. For gluten-free variations, you can use gluten-free mustard and ensure the ham itself is gluten-free. If you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions, consider providing alternative sides that are universally loved, like roasted vegetables.