Christmas Orange-Glazed Spiral Ham with Pomegranate Seeds Recipe

If you’re looking to elevate your holiday feast, this Christmas Orange-Glazed Spiral Ham with Pomegranate Seeds Recipe is an absolute showstopper. It combines the rich, savory flavor of a perfectly cooked spiral ham with the bright, citrusy sweetness of an orange glaze, finished off with the jewel-like pop of tart pomegranate seeds. Each bite offers a delightful contrast in textures and flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, this recipe will become your new Christmas classic, warming hearts and filling plates with festive cheer.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple but essential, each bringing something special to the dish — from the bold sweetness of brown sugar to the fresh zing of orange zest and pomegranate seeds that add brilliant color and a fresh bite.

• Ham (spiral sliced, bone-in, 9-12 pounds): The star of the dish, juicy and ready to soak up that luscious glaze.
• Orange juice (2 cups): Provides fresh citrus brightness that balances the sweetness beautifully.
• Brown sugar (2 cups): Adds deep caramel notes and richness to the glaze.
• Honey (1 cup): Natural sweetness with a smooth texture that helps create a sticky glaze.
• Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Infuses warm, cozy spice that complements the orange perfectly.
• Orange zest (from 1 orange): Adds a punch of fresh, aromatic citrus that brightens the presentation and flavor.
• Pomegranate seeds (1 cup): These glistening gems add a tart crunch and festive color to finish off the ham.
• Parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): A fresh herb to add a pop of green and a subtle earthiness.

How to Make Christmas Orange-Glazed Spiral Ham with Pomegranate Seeds Recipe

Step 1: Get Your Oven Ready

Start by preheating your oven to 325 degrees. This moderate temperature ensures your ham cooks evenly and stays tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Ham

Remove your spiral-sliced ham from its packaging, being sure to save about a cup of the liquid inside — this will keep your ham moist as it cooks. Discard the rest of the packaging liquid.

Step 3: Place the Ham in the Roasting Pan

Set the ham cut side down in a large baking dish or roasting pan. Pour the reserved liquid around it to add moisture, which helps the ham stay juicy during roasting.

Step 4: Mix the Glaze Ingredients

In a large bowl or measuring cup, combine the fresh orange juice, brown sugar, honey, and cinnamon. This blend is the secret sauce that will transform your ham into a holiday masterpiece.

Step 5: Glaze the Ham Before Baking

Pour half of the glaze mixture evenly over the ham, reserving the other half for later. This first coating will start soaking into the ham as it cooks.

Step 6: Roast the Ham

Place your ham in the oven and let it cook for 2 to 2 ½ hours — about 20 minutes per pound. This slow roasting allows flavors to meld and the ham to reach that perfect juicy tenderness.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze Reduction

During the last hour of cooking, bring the remaining glaze mixture to life. Pour it into a large pot or deep pan.

Step 8: Simmer for Thickening

Turn the heat to medium and bring the glaze to a boil, then reduce it to medium-low to simmer. Whisk constantly to prevent boiling over and help it thicken up nicely.

Step 9: Achieve the Perfect Glaze

Simmer your glaze for 10 to 15 minutes until it’s thick and syrupy. Set it aside to cool slightly — this glaze will be the crowning glory of your ham.

Step 10: Finish Your Ham

Once the ham is cooked through, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a serving dish. Pour the thickened orange glaze generously all over the top to coat every slice.

Step 11: Add a Festive Touch

Sprinkle the ham with the bright orange zest, tart pomegranate seeds, and chopped parsley. These vibrant garnishes add flavor, texture, and rich holiday colors that make the dish irresistible.

Step 12: Carve and Enjoy

Finally, carve the ham into slices and serve immediately, soaking up the glaze and enjoying the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory in every bite.

How to Serve Christmas Orange-Glazed Spiral Ham with Pomegranate Seeds Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing with fresh orange zest, pomegranate seeds, and parsley not only enhances the flavor but creates a stunning visual appeal that will wow your guests before they even taste a bite.

Side Dishes

This ham pairs beautifully with classic holiday sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a fresh green salad. The bright glaze and jewel-like pomegranate add brightness to any plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your ham on a rustic wooden board adorned with extra citrus slices and pomegranate scattered around. It’s festive, welcoming, and makes carving feel like an event all on its own.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for 3 to 4 days, perfect for turning into sandwiches or quick dinners.

Freezing

If you want to keep your leftovers longer, wrap slices tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen ham will maintain the best quality for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat leftover ham gently in the oven at 275 degrees, covered with foil to retain moisture. You can also warm slices in a skillet with a drizzle of water or glaze to keep them juicy.

FAQs

Can I use a boneless ham instead of spiral sliced?

Absolutely! While spiral-sliced bone-in ham is best for juicy, easy serving, a boneless ham will work well too. Just adjust your cooking time accordingly and slice after cooking.

How far in advance can I prepare this ham?

You can prepare the glaze and even place the ham in the roasting pan a day ahead, covered and refrigerated. Just add the glaze and bake on the day you want to serve it.

What if I don’t have pomegranate seeds?

If pomegranate seeds are unavailable, dried cranberries or fresh cherries make a lovely, similarly festive alternative that still adds color and tartness.

Can I make this recipe without honey?

Yes, if you’re out of honey, you can substitute with pure maple syrup or additional brown sugar to maintain that sweet, sticky glaze.

How do I prevent the glaze from burning while baking?

To avoid burning, apply the glaze in stages and baste occasionally. Covering loosely with foil during cooking helps protect the sugars from over-charring.

Final Thoughts

This Christmas Orange-Glazed Spiral Ham with Pomegranate Seeds Recipe is such a joyous addition to any holiday table. Its combination of flavors and stunning presentation makes it not just a meal but a centerpiece of celebration. Give it a try this season—you’ll be so glad you did, and your loved ones will thank you all evening long!

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