Introduction
If you’re looking for a holiday ham recipe that’s anything but ordinary, this Cardamom Plum Glazed Ham is the perfect centerpiece. Juicy and tender, with a glossy, fragrant glaze made from plum preserves, orange juice, and a whisper of cardamom, this dish feels both festive and exotic. Whether you’re hosting a cozy winter dinner or a full-blown holiday feast, this easy baked ham will steal the show with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Elegant but easy: Simple prep with a big-flavor payoff.
- Unique glaze: Plum, orange, ginger, and cardamom bring sweet warmth to every bite.
- Make-ahead friendly: Great for feeding a crowd with leftovers to love the next day.
- Versatile for holidays: Ideal for Christmas, Easter, or Sunday dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 cup plum preserves
- 1⁄2 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon cardamom
- 1 smoked cooked ham (4 lb.)
Ingredient Notes & Swaps
- Plum preserves: Adds natural sweetness and a rich, fruity glaze. Apricot or cherry preserves can work in a pinch.
- Orange juice: Adds brightness and acidity—fresh squeezed is best if you have it!
- Honey: Deepens the sweetness and helps caramelize the glaze.
- Fresh ginger: Adds a zippy heat that balances the fruit. Substitute with 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger if needed.
- Cardamom: Warm and floral, it gives this ham its signature twist. Don’t skip it!
- Ham: Use a fully cooked, smoked ham. Bone-in or boneless both work well here.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the glaze: In a saucepan over medium-high heat, stir together plum preserves, orange juice, honey, ginger, and cardamom. Bring to a boil while stirring. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until smooth and melted. Set half the glaze aside in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Prep the ham: Score the outside of the ham in a cross-hatch pattern using a sharp knife. This helps the glaze soak in.
- Glaze and roast: Brush the ham with glaze and loosely cover it with foil. Bake at 350°F for 2½ hours, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F. Baste with reserved glaze every 30 minutes.
- Rest and reheat glaze: Let the ham rest 15 minutes before slicing. Microwave the reserved glaze for 1 minute until warm and drizzle over ham before serving.
- Serve and enjoy: Plate it up and serve with sides or rolls. Don’t forget the extra glaze!
Tips for Success
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking—145°F is the sweet spot for juicy ham.
- Make extra glaze if you want a little sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling.
- Scoring the ham not only looks beautiful, but also helps the glaze stick and seep in deeper.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This flavorful ham pairs beautifully with a variety of sides—from creamy mashed potatoes to roasted Brussels sprouts. Looking for appetizers? Try this baked brie to start the night off with something gooey and irresistible. Add a crisp green salad, some flaky dinner rolls, and maybe a warming dip like beer cheese dip to round out the feast.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers tightly wrapped in foil or in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Slice leftovers and freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm slices in a covered dish at 300°F until heated through, or microwave gently with a spoonful of glaze.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in ham for this recipe?
Yes! Bone-in ham adds extra flavor and stays juicy. Just adjust cooking time slightly if the weight differs.
What if I can’t find cardamom?
Cardamom is key to the unique flavor, but you can substitute with a mix of cinnamon and allspice for a similar warmth.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely. Make and store it in the fridge up to 3 days ahead—just reheat before using.
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Final Thoughts
This Cardamom Plum Glazed Ham is more than just a holiday roast—it’s a conversation starter. The balance of sweet, tangy, and warm spices makes every bite memorable. With just 15 minutes of prep, you can serve a dish that tastes gourmet but feels easy. From my kitchen to yours—enjoy the leftovers and the compliments!
Easy Plum Glazed Ham with Cardamom and Ginger – Festive & Flavorful
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 5-7 lbs)
- 1 cup plum preserves
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Make the glaze: In a saucepan over medium-high heat, stir together plum preserves, orange juice, honey, ginger, and cardamom. Bring to a boil while stirring. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until smooth and melted. Set half the glaze aside in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Prep the ham: Score the outside of the ham in a cross-hatch pattern using a sharp knife. This helps the glaze soak in.
- Glaze and roast: Brush the ham with glaze and loosely cover it with foil. Bake at 350°F for 2½ hours, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F. Baste with reserved glaze every 30 minutes.
- Rest and reheat glaze: Let the ham rest 15 minutes before slicing. Microwave the reserved glaze for 1 minute until warm and drizzle over ham before serving.
- Serve and enjoy: Plate it up and serve with sides or rolls. Don’t forget the extra glaze!
Nutrition Information
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