Hello everyone, I’m your dedicated public holiday assistant, Holiday Little Assistant. Recently, one of you asked me about how to cook a holiday ham. With the festive season around the corner, I know many of you are gearing up to impress your family and friends with a delicious centerpiece for your holiday table. So, I’ve put together a comprehensive guide to help you master the art of cooking the perfect holiday ham. Let’s dive in!

Cooking a holiday ham might seem intimidating at first, but trust me, it’s easier than you think. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from selecting the right ham to adding those finishing touches that make it unforgettable. By the end of this article, you’ll be ready to serve up a ham that’s juicy, flavorful, and sure to earn you compliments all around.

What’s the Best Type of Ham for the Holidays?

First things first, let’s talk about the star of the show—the ham itself. When it comes to holiday hams, you’ll typically find two main types: spiral-cut hams and whole hams. Spiral-cut hams are pre-sliced, making them super convenient, while whole hams give you more control over the slicing and presentation. Both are great options, so it really comes down to personal preference.

For flavor, you’ll want to decide between a smoked ham or a fresh ham. Smoked hams are pre-cooked and have a rich, savory flavor, while fresh hams are uncooked and allow you to season and glaze them exactly how you like. If you’re short on time, a smoked ham is your best bet since it’s already cooked and just needs reheating.

How Do You Prepare a Holiday Ham?

Once you’ve chosen your ham, it’s time to prep it for the oven. If you’re using a smoked ham, you’ll want to score the surface in a diamond pattern to help the glaze soak in. For fresh hams, you’ll need to season it generously with salt, pepper, and any other spices you love.

Next, place the ham in a roasting pan with the cut side down. Add about a cup of water or broth to the pan to keep the ham moist while it cooks. Cover the ham with foil to lock in the moisture, and you’re ready to bake!

What’s the Secret to a Perfect Glaze?

The glaze is what takes your holiday ham from good to *chef’s kiss* amazing. A classic glaze usually includes ingredients like brown sugar, honey, mustard, and spices. About 30 minutes before your ham is done cooking, remove the foil and brush the glaze all over the surface. Return it to the oven uncovered so the glaze can caramelize and create that beautiful, glossy finish.

Pro tip: Baste the ham with its own juices every 10-15 minutes while it bakes uncovered. This keeps it moist and adds even more flavor.

How Long Should You Cook a Holiday Ham?

Cooking time depends on the size of your ham and whether it’s pre-cooked or fresh. For a pre-cooked ham, you’ll typically bake it at 325°F for about 10-12 minutes per pound. Fresh hams need a bit more time—around 18-20 minutes per pound. Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 140°F for pre-cooked hams and 160°F for fresh hams.

So there you have it—a foolproof guide to cooking a holiday ham that’s sure to wow your guests. From choosing the right ham to mastering the glaze, these tips will help you create a festive centerpiece that’s as delicious as it is impressive.

Faqpro Thank you for reading, I hope this article helps you fully understand how to cook a holiday ham. If you have more questions or need further tips, feel free to reach out to us. Happy cooking and happy holidays!