When it comes to an Australian Christmas, a glazed ham is hard to beat. It’s the kind of centrepiece that feeds a crowd, can be prepared ahead, and still feels special when it’s brought to the table.
This Maple Glazed Ham is gently sweet, balanced with a little tang, and finished with a glossy glaze that caramelises beautifully in the oven. It’s simple to prepare, doesn’t require any last-minute stress, and works just as well for Christmas Day as it does for Boxing Day leftovers.
Make-Ahead & Christmas Planning
One of the best things about a glazed ham is how well it fits into Christmas prep. The ham can be glazed and baked a day ahead, then stored in the fridge and brought back to room temperature before serving. Leftovers keep well and are perfect for salads, sandwiches, or simple Boxing Day lunches.
Why You’ll Love This Maple Glazed Ham
- Festive Flavours: The sweetness of maple syrup combined with the tang of Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar creates a perfect glaze.
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
- Perfect for Gatherings: A 4kg half leg ham is ideal for feeding a crowd, with leftovers for sandwiches, quiches, or salads.
Ingredients
To make this show-stopping ham, you’ll need:
- 1 x 4kg half leg ham, bone-in
- 1 cup (250ml) pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Whole cloves (approx. 20–30 for studding)
Pro Tips for the Perfect Christmas Ham
- For a glossy finish: Turn your oven up to 200°C for the last 10 minutes of cooking, but keep an eye on the glaze to prevent burning.
- Leftovers: Refrigerate leftover ham in an airtight container. It’s perfect for sandwiches, pasta, or breakfast dishes like ham and eggs.
- Customise your glaze: Add a splash of orange juice or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra festive flavour.
What to Serve with Christmas Ham
Pairing the perfect sides with your Maple Glazed Christmas Ham enhances the meal and makes it truly unforgettable. Whether you’re celebrating in the warmth of an Australian summer or the chill of a wintry Christmas, we’ve got you covered with these complementary dishes:
Warm Climate Side Dishes
For a summer Christmas, keep it light and fresh with these vibrant salads:
- Nonna’s Potato Salad: This simple yet flavourful recipe is a rustic delight, featuring just a handful of fresh ingredients—potatoes, olive oil, vinegar, salt, and parsley. It’s proof that less is often more.
- Green Bean, Goat Cheese, and Walnut Salad
This salad combines crisp green beans, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy walnuts, dressed in a zesty vinaigrette. It’s the perfect balance to the rich maple glaze. - Caprese Salad
The classic combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze adds a refreshing, summery touch to your Christmas table.
Cold Climate Side Dishes
For a wintry Christmas feast, indulge in these hearty, comforting sides:
- Roast Pumpkin with Sage Butter, Almonds, and Parmesan
This warm, nutty dish is bursting with flavour, thanks to the buttery sage and crispy almonds. It pairs wonderfully with the sweet, tangy ham. - Potato Bake (Cheat’s Dauphinoise Potatoes)
Creamy, cheesy, and utterly indulgent, this potato bake is a classic side dish that brings a cozy feel to your holiday meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a boneless ham for this recipe?
Yes, you can, but a bone-in ham tends to stay juicier and more flavourful.
How long does a cooked ham last?
Stored in the fridge, your ham will stay fresh for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Do I need to soak the ham before cooking?
Most store-bought hams are pre-cooked and don’t require soaking. Check the packaging for instructions.
Storage & Leftovers
Leftover glazed ham can be wrapped tightly and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keep it covered to prevent it drying out. Slices are perfect for sandwiches, salads, or served cold with Christmas sides, and the ham also works beautifully chopped through omelettes or fried rice for easy Boxing Day meals.
Why This Recipe Belongs on Your Christmas Table
This Maple Glazed Christmas Ham not only tastes amazing but also makes a stunning centrepiece for your festive table. With minimal prep and maximum flavour, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to year after year.
Looking for more holiday recipes? Explore our Australian Summer Christmas Menu for inspiration.
Maple Glazed Christmas Ham
Equipment
- 1 large roasting tray with wire rack
Ingredients
- 1 4kg half leg ham bone-in
- 1 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- whole cloves approx. 20–30 for studding
Instructions
Make the Glaze
- In a small saucepan, combine the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until well combined and slightly thickened. Set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare Your Ham
- Preheat your oven to 160°C (140°C fan-forced). Using a sharp knife, carefully cut around the shank end of the ham to loosen the skin. Gently peel back the skin, leaving a layer of fat. Score the fat in a diamond pattern and stud the centre of each diamond with a clove.
Glaze and Bake
- Place the ham on a roasting rack in a large baking dish. Add a cup of water to the dish to prevent the glaze from burning. Brush the scored fat generously with the glaze, ensuring every diamond is coated.
Bake to Perfection
- Bake the ham for 1.5 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the glaze. Rotate the pan halfway through cooking for even browning. Add more water to the pan if it dries out. For the last 10 minutes turn the heat up to 200 ℃ but keep an eye on the glaze to prevent burning. The ham is ready when it’s golden brown and caramelised.
Rest and Serve
- Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. Serve warm or at room temperature, paired with your favourite Christmas sides.
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