There’s something truly magical about a holiday ham. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, sparks a few happy sighs, and has guests sneaking back for seconds (or thirds) when they think no one’s watching. And this Peach and Ginger Glazed Honey Ham? It’s the perfect centerpiece for your next celebration—elegant, irresistibly flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make.

This recipe brings together the sweetness of peach preserves, the zesty brightness of orange juice, the cozy spice of ginger, and the savory depth of garlic to create a glaze that turns an ordinary ham into an unforgettable showstopper. Whether you’re celebrating Eid, hosting a family dinner, or just want something special for a Sunday meal, this ham fits the bill perfectly.

I first tried this peach and ginger combo during a holiday potluck a few years back. I was skeptical—peach and meat? But one bite changed my mind. The glaze caramelized beautifully, the ginger added a little warmth without being overpowering, and the whole thing smelled incredible as it baked. That ham disappeared fast, and I knew I had to recreate it at home.

What I love most about this recipe is how approachable it is. It looks fancy, but it’s fuss-free. With only a handful of ingredients and minimal hands-on time, you get big, bold flavor and a presentation that’s sure to wow. Trust me, this will be your new holiday classic.

Why You’ll Love This Peach and Ginger Glazed Honey Ham Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this peach and ginger glazed honey ham. Let’s start with the obvious: the taste. That glaze is a total flavor bomb. The peach preserves give it a mellow sweetness that pairs beautifully with the natural saltiness of the ham. The orange juice brightens everything up, while the ginger and garlic bring just enough complexity to keep things interesting.

Beyond flavor, the texture is amazing. The glaze gets all sticky and caramelized as it bakes, creating this slightly crisp outer layer that contrasts perfectly with the juicy, tender slices of ham underneath. Plus, because we’re using a spiral-sliced or bone-in ham, it’s already prepped and easy to serve. Just warm it up, baste it with that golden glaze, and let it do its thing in the oven.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile. It works just as well for a laid-back family dinner as it does for a full-blown celebration. And if you’ve got kids? They’re probably going to love it too. The sweetness from the peaches and the mild spice of the ginger make it super approachable for all ages.

Lastly, it’s a time-saver. With just four main ingredients for the glaze and a simple baking process, you don’t need to be a chef to pull this off. It’s beginner-friendly, holiday-appropriate, and guaranteed to impress.

Health Benefits

While ham is typically seen as a holiday indulgence, this recipe strikes a nice balance between richness and wholesomeness. Let’s break it down.

First, we’re keeping the ingredient list clean and straightforward. The glaze features natural sweetness from peach preserves and orange juice, both of which bring vitamins and antioxidants to the table. Ginger and garlic are known for their anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, which is always a bonus—especially during cold-weather months when this dish is most likely to make an appearance.

Ham, when consumed in moderation, can be a good source of protein, B vitamins, and essential minerals like zinc and selenium. By opting for a high-quality, lean cut like Petit Jean’s spiral-sliced or bone-in ham, you’re also cutting back on excessive fat and sodium that you might find in lower-quality options.

To make this Peach and Ginger Glazed Honey Ham even lighter, you can trim away some of the exterior fat before baking and pair it with healthy sides like roasted vegetables or a crisp salad. That way, you get all the flavor and satisfaction of a holiday feast without feeling weighed down afterward.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Total Preparation Time:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Servings:

Serves approximately 12 people

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 310
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Sugars: 11g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Sodium: 850mg

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this sweet and savory Peach and Ginger Glazed Honey Ham:

1 (7–9 lb) spiral-sliced or bone-in ham (I recommend Petit Jean brand for quality and flavor)
1 cup peach preserves – These add natural sweetness and help create that gorgeous sticky glaze.
½ cup orange juice – Provides brightness and acidity to balance the richness.
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated or 1 teaspoon ground ginger – Adds a warm, spicy note (optional if you prefer a milder glaze).
2 garlic cloves, minced – Enhances the savory base of the glaze.
Optional: ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.

This simple list of ingredients packs a serious flavor punch and keeps the preparation stress-free. You might already have most of these items in your pantry.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rack in the lower third of the oven to give your ham plenty of space.
Unwrap the Ham
Remove your ham from any packaging, discarding the plastic or foil wrapping. If there’s a glaze packet included, you can set it aside—we won’t be needing it.
Place the Ham in a Roasting Pan
Put the ham flat-side down in a roasting pan or large baking dish. If you have a wire rack, use it to lift the ham slightly for even cooking, but this step is optional.
Make the Glaze
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the peach preserves, orange juice, ginger, and garlic. Stir until the mixture begins to bubble gently.
- Once bubbling, reduce the heat and simmer the glaze for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. It should thicken slightly and become syrupy.
Glaze the Ham
Using a pastry brush or spoon, spread a generous layer of the warm glaze all over the ham. Be sure to get some between the spiral slices for maximum flavor.
- Reserve about ⅓ of the glaze for basting later.
Bake the Ham
Cover the ham loosely with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 1.5 hours, or approximately 10 minutes per pound, basting with the reserved glaze and pan juices every 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil during the last 15–20 minutes of baking to allow the glaze to caramelize and develop a beautiful golden finish.
Rest Before Slicing
After baking, let the ham rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping every slice tender and moist.
Slice and Serve
Use a carving knife to slice along the natural spiral cuts or around the bone. Transfer to a serving platter and drizzle any remaining glaze over the top for extra flavor.

How to Serve

This Peach and Ginger Glazed Honey Ham is the star of the show, but it shines even brighter with the right sides and garnishes. Here are a few ideas for serving it up:

Slice the ham and arrange it on a large platter with fresh herbs or citrus slices for a festive touch.
Drizzle any leftover glaze from the pan over the sliced ham for added shine and moisture.
Pair with a bowl of creamy mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes to balance the sweet-savory profile.
For a lighter option, serve with a fresh green salad with citrus vinaigrette.

Pairing Suggestions

To make your meal even more memorable, consider serving your ham with one or more of these classic sides:

Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes – Buttery and fluffy, these complement the sweet glaze perfectly.
Macaroni Salad – A cold, creamy contrast to the warm ham.
Sweet Potato Casserole – A sweet-on-sweet combination that feels comforting and festive.
Angel Rolls or Dinner Rolls – Perfect for mopping up extra glaze.
Easy Apple Cobbler – For a cozy, fruity dessert.
Watergate Salad – A nostalgic, creamy side dish that adds color to your table.
Easy Party Punch – Family-friendly and refreshing.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers:
Let the ham cool completely, then transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing:
To freeze, wrap slices or chunks of ham in foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Don’t forget to label with the date.

Reheating:
To reheat, wrap the ham slices in foil and bake at 350°F for about 15–20 minutes, or until heated through. For a crispier edge, lightly fry individual slices in a nonstick skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not basting the ham regularly – This can result in dry meat. Basting helps keep it moist and flavorful.
Skipping the rest time after baking – Slicing too soon can cause the juices to run out.
Using a high-sugar glaze at the wrong time – If added too early, the sugar can burn. That’s why we remove the foil near the end.
Not checking the ham’s temperature – You want it to reach at least 140°F for safe serving.
Choosing a low-quality ham – The flavor of the ham matters. Go for a reputable brand like Petit Jean for best results.

Pro Tips

Choose the right ham: A spiral-sliced, bone-in ham offers flavor and ease. The bone adds moisture and richness.
Use fresh ginger for a brighter, more complex flavor, but ground ginger works in a pinch.
Make it ahead: You can prep the glaze a day in advance and store it in the fridge.
Save the ham bone for soups or slow cooker beans. It adds depth and smoky flavor.
Use a meat thermometer: Aim for an internal temp of 140°F to ensure it’s heated through without overcooking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this ham without ginger?
Yes, absolutely. The glaze will still be delicious with just the peach, orange juice, and garlic.

Is this recipe spicy?
Not at all. Ginger adds warmth, not heat. You can add crushed red pepper flakes if you want a spicy kick.

Can I use apricot preserves instead of peach?
Yes, apricot works beautifully and offers a slightly tangier finish.

How far in advance can I make this ham?
You can bake the ham a day ahead and reheat it before serving. Store it tightly wrapped in foil in the fridge.

Do I need a meat thermometer?
While not required, it’s helpful to ensure your ham reaches a safe serving temp of 140°F.

What if my ham is smaller or larger?
Adjust the cooking time to about 10 minutes per pound and monitor the internal temperature.

Can I use boneless ham?
Yes, but bone-in ham tends to be juicier and more flavorful. If using boneless, reduce baking time slightly.

Is this recipe halal?
Yes, just make sure to purchase a halal-certified ham, such as one made from turkey or beef.

What sides go best with this ham?
Creamy potatoes, roasted vegetables, and fruity salads all work well. See our pairing suggestions for more.

Can I use frozen ham?
Yes, but thaw it completely in the fridge for 1–2 days before cooking to ensure even heating.

Conclusion & Call to Action

If you’re looking for a no-fuss, high-reward main dish that makes your holiday table feel extra special, this Peach and Ginger Glazed Honey Ham is the one. It’s sweet, savory, aromatic, and just the right amount of indulgent. With minimal prep, a handful of ingredients, and a whole lot of flavor, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, preparing for Eid, or simply treating your loved ones to a comforting homemade meal, this ham delivers every single time. And if you give it a try, I’d love to hear how it turns out. Snap a photo, share your creation on social media, or leave a comment to let me know what you think.

This one’s going to be a hit—I can already tell.