How To Bake A Spiral-Cut Ham

How to Bake a Delicious Spiral-Cut Ham

Are you looking to impress your guests with a mouthwatering ham at your next gathering? Baking a spiral-cut ham is a fantastic way to create a beautiful and delicious centerpiece for any special occasion. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a family dinner, a perfectly baked spiral-cut ham is sure to be a hit. Here’s a simple guide to help you bake a delectable spiral-cut ham that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Choose the Perfect Ham

When it comes to baking a spiral-cut ham, selecting the right ham is crucial. Look for a high-quality, fully cooked spiral-cut ham from your local grocery store or butcher. The spiral-cut allows for easy serving and ensures that the glaze penetrates the meat, resulting in a flavorful and juicy ham.

Prepare the Glaze

A delicious glaze is the key to adding flavor and a beautiful caramelized finish to your spiral-cut ham. You can create a simple yet flavorful glaze using ingredients such as brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and a hint of cloves or cinnamon. Mix the ingredients together in a bowl until well combined, and set the glaze aside for later.

Preheat the Oven

Before you begin preparing the ham, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Allowing the oven to reach the proper temperature ensures that the ham will cook evenly and thoroughly.

Prepare the Ham

Remove the spiral-cut ham from its packaging and place it in a roasting pan, cut side down. If the ham came with a packet of glaze, you can use it to brush over the ham before baking. Alternatively, you can use your homemade glaze to generously coat the entire surface of the ham, ensuring that it is well covered for maximum flavor.

Bake to Perfection

Place the prepared ham in the preheated oven and bake it uncovered for approximately 10-12 minutes per pound, or as per the package instructions. Basting the ham with the glaze every 20-30 minutes during the baking process will help to enhance its flavor and create a delectable caramelized exterior.

Let it Rest

Once the ham is beautifully caramelized and cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and tender ham that is ready to be served.

Serve and Enjoy

After the resting period, it’s time to carve and serve your delicious spiral-cut ham. Arrange the slices on a platter and watch as your guests marvel at the beautiful presentation and savor the irresistible flavors of your perfectly baked ham.

With these simple steps, you can easily bake a mouthwatering spiral-cut ham that will be the highlight of any gathering. Whether it’s a holiday celebration or a casual dinner with loved ones, a beautifully glazed and perfectly baked spiral-cut ham is sure to impress and satisfy everyone around the table.

So, go ahead and give it a try – your culinary masterpiece awaits!