Your Christmas ham is already home. Now it’s time to cook it to perfection. Whether you chose a bone-in ham for rich flavour or a boneless ham for easy slicing, the key to a great holiday ham is gentle reheating, moisture control, and a simple glaze.
Follow this step-by-step guide for a juicy, flavourful Christmas ham that will impress your guests without stress.
Bone-In vs Boneless Ham: What to Expect
Bone-In Ham
- Deeper flavour and excellent moisture retention
- Ideal for traditional holiday presentation
- Bone can be saved for soups and stocks
Boneless Ham
- Easier carving and uniform slices
- Heats evenly
- Great for smaller gatherings
Both types are already cooked and only need to be reheated properly.
Before You Start Cooking
- Remove ham from the fridge 60-90 minutes before cooking
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C)
- Place ham cut-side down in a roasting pan
- Add 1-2 cups of water, apple juice, or broth to the pan
Cover loosely with foil to lock in moisture.
How Long to Cook a Christmas Ham
Because most holiday hams are fully cooked, you’re simply warming them through.
Oven Temperature: 325°F (160°C)
Cooking Time
- Bone-in ham: 15-18 minutes per pound
- Boneless ham: 12-15 minutes per pound
Internal Temperature
- Heat to 140°F (60°C)
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking
Overheating is the most common reason ham turns dry.
How to Keep Ham Juicy and Tender
- Keep the ham covered for most of the cooking time
- Baste once or twice with pan juices
- Avoid high oven temperatures
- Do not cook uncovered until glazing
Easy Classic Christmas Ham Glaze
A glaze adds flavour, colour, and that festive finish.
Simple Holiday Glaze
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp Dijon or grainy mustard
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 tbsp orange juice or apple cider vinegar
Mix well.
When to Glaze
- Remove foil during the last 30-40 minutes
- Brush glaze generously over the ham
- Return to oven uncovered
- Re-glaze every 10-15 minutes
For extra caramelization, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end, watch carefully.
How to Carve Your Ham
Bone-In
- Slice down along the bone to release sections
- Cut across the grain for tender slices
Boneless
- Slice straight across for even portions
- Use a sharp carving knife for clean cuts
Let It Rest Before Serving
Allow the ham to rest 10–15 minutes before slicing. This keeps it moist and makes carving easier.
Leftover Ham Storage Tips
- Refrigerate within 2 hours
- Store tightly wrapped or in airtight containers
- Keeps 4–5 days refrigerated
- Freeze leftovers for up to 2 months
Leftover ham works beautifully in soups, sandwiches, breakfast dishes, and casseroles.
Final Tip for the Perfect Christmas Ham
Low heat, plenty of moisture, and patience are the secrets. Your ham is already cooked, treat it gently, glaze it at the end, and enjoy a stress-free holiday meal.
🎄 Merry Christmas and happy cooking from all of us at ACME!
