HOLIDAY HAM: How to Avoid Common Mistakes & Make a Costco Spiral Cut Ham Even Better

brown sugar

🥗Healthier: coconut sugar

💰Cheaper: white sugar

Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index.

pineapple juice

🥗Healthier: fresh pineapple juice

💰Cheaper: canned pineapple juice

Canned juice is often more affordable.

honey

🥗Healthier: agave syrup

💰Cheaper: maple syrup

Maple syrup can be less expensive and still sweet.

maraschino cherries

🥗Healthier: fresh cherries

💰Cheaper: canned cherries

Canned cherries are usually cheaper than fresh.

Preheat the oven to 275°F.

Remove all packaging from the ham.

Line the baking pan with aluminum foil, covering the ham on all sides.

Place the ham bone side down in the center of the pan.

Place pineapple slices and maraschino cherries on top, using toothpicks to hold them in place.

Cover the ham tightly with foil without poking holes.

Place the ham in the oven and do not check on it until the last half hour of cooking time (about 1.5 hours).

In a small pot, combine brown sugar, pineapple juice, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and ground cloves.

Bring the glaze mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 minutes.

After 1.5 hours, remove the ham from the oven and increase the oven temperature to 475°F.

Carefully pull the foil away from the ham and fold it down to the sides of the baking dish.

Brush the glaze over the ham, covering it fully.

Return the ham to the oven uncovered and cook until the internal temperature reaches 140°F, checking every 15 minutes and basting with more glaze each time.

Once the ham reaches 140°F, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens