To cook a spiral ham, follow these steps for a tender, flavorful result:

Ingredients

• 1 spiral ham (7-10 pounds, precooked)
• Optional glaze (brown sugar, mustard, juice, honey, spices, etc.)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Set your oven to 325°F (165°C)

2. Prepare the Ham
   Remove all packaging and discard any plastic disk on the underside of the bone

. Place the ham cut side down in a shallow roasting pan or baking dish

3. Cover and Bake
   Cover the ham tightly with foil and bake for about 12-15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C)

. For example, a 10-pound ham will take approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours

4. Prepare the Glaze (Optional)
   While the ham bakes, make a glaze by combining ingredients such as brown sugar, mustard, orange or pineapple juice, honey, soy sauce, cinnamon, and cloves. Simmer until thickened

5. Glaze and Finish Baking
   When the ham reaches 140°F, remove the foil and brush the glaze over the ham, making sure to get it between the spiral slices

. Increase oven temperature to 425°F and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until the glaze caramelizes and the ham browns nicely

6. Rest the Ham
   Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest covered for at least 15 minutes to allow juices to redistribute

7. Serve
   Slice along the spiral cuts and serve with extra glaze or pan juices if desired

Tips

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham reaches 140°F internally for safe consumption and optimal juiciness

• Bringing the ham to room temperature before cooking helps it cook evenly

• Cooking cut side down helps retain moisture

• Leftovers can be stored wrapped in foil in the fridge for 3-5 days or frozen up to 2 months

This method ensures a juicy, flavorful spiral ham perfect for any occasion