There’s something magical about the smell of a glazed ham roasting in the oven, especially during the holidays. Celia’s holiday glazed ham is a showstopper that becomes the centerpiece of festive dinners, bringing families together with its savory-sweet aroma. Whether served at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion, this recipe combines simple ingredients and careful attention to detail, making it a dish worth celebrating. Click here to discover about apple cider vinegar detox recipes.

Celia starts with a bone-in ham, preferably a pre-cooked one for convenience, as it just needs to be reheated and glazed to perfection. The first step is to score the fat in a diamond pattern, which helps the glaze penetrate the meat and gives it that beautiful caramelized finish. Celia rubs the ham with a mix of brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and a little ground clove, ensuring every inch is coated before placing it in the oven.

For the glaze, Celia combines honey, maple syrup, and a splash of apple cider vinegar or orange juice for a balance of sweetness and tang. As the ham roasts, she bastes it every 20 minutes, brushing on the glaze so it can build up a glossy, sticky layer. The key is to keep a close eye on it, turning the oven temperature down slightly to avoid burning the glaze while still allowing it to develop that deep, rich color.

By the time the ham is fully heated through and beautifully glazed—usually after about 2 hours—it’s glossy, golden, and absolutely mouthwatering. Celia often lets it rest for a few minutes before carving, which allows the juices to redistribute and ensures each slice is tender and juicy.

This holiday glazed ham is the perfect pairing with side dishes like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or Celia’s famous stuffing. The sweet, smoky flavor of the ham complements everything on the table, making it the highlight of any festive spread. It’s also a great recipe for leftovers, as the ham can be sliced and used in sandwiches, salads, or casseroles for days after.

Celia’s holiday glazed ham is more than just a dish—it’s a tradition that brings warmth and joy to every gathering. Made with care, patience, and a little bit of holiday magic, it’s a recipe to cherish and pass down through the years.