Apricot and Whisky Glazed Ham – A Christmas Classic Done Simple

When it comes to Christmas food, I like to keep it simple, tasty, and stress-free. One of my all-time favourites for the festive table is a good old-fashioned glazed ham. There’s something about the smell of ham baking away in the oven with a sweet and sticky glaze that makes the whole house feel like Christmas.

This recipe uses two ingredients that never fail to make a ham extra special — apricot jam and whisky (or brandy if you prefer). The alcohol in the glaze mixes with the apricot to create a rich, sticky coating that keeps the ham moist and juicy. It’s easy to make and the taste speaks for itself — no fancy tricks or hard-to-find ingredients.

My Take on the Recipe

You don’t need to wait until Christmas Day. I usually do the glazing on Christmas Eve, once the day’s rush has settled down. Pop the ham in the oven, baste it now and then, and let the glaze do the work. A glass of whisky for the cook while you’re basting is optional, but my tip: Do not to overdo it — the ham needs more of it than I do!

When it comes to storing leftover ham, here’s a tip that’s been passed around my family for years. Don’t wrap your ham in plastic. Instead, use a clean muslin bag or an old, well-washed cotton sheet. Plastic traps moisture, which makes the ham turn slimy far too quickly. A breathable cloth keeps it fresh and tasty for much longer. It’s old-fashioned advice, but it works.

This ham goes beautifully with all the usual trimmings — roast potatoes, cold salads, crusty bread, or even just sliced up in sandwiches the next day. And if you’re like me, you’ll find yourself sneaking a slice straight from the fridge more than once!

If you’re looking for a reliable, no-fuss recipe that looks impressive on the table but won’t have you tied to the kitchen all day, this apricot and whisky glazed ham is well worth making. The glaze makes enough for one big ham, and if you’ve got any leftover, it also works nicely on pork chops or chicken drumsticks.

Give it a try this Christmas — I think you’ll be pleased with how easy it is, and your guests will be asking for seconds.

Recipe

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🍑🥃🍖✨⋆ ₊˚⊹♡ ࣪✨ ♡🍑🥃🍖💖

Apricot and Whisky Glazed Ham

• Servings: Varies
• Prep Time: 20mins
• Cook Time: 60mins
• Difficulty: easy
• Rating: ★★★★★
• Print

A simple and flavour-packed apricot and whisky glazed ham, perfect for festive tables and family gatherings. Juicy, moist, and easy to prepare.

𝗧𝗶𝗽 : For best results, glaze your ham the day before serving — and go easy on sampling the whisky while you work! Store leftover ham wrapped in clean muslin or a tea towel, never plastic. Pairs beautifully with a glass of Riesling or Chardonnay.

Ingredients

• 1 jar (300ml) apricot jam
• ½ cup whisky or brandy
• 1 tbsp seed mustard (optional)
• 1 whole cooked leg ham, bone in or out
• Whole cloves (optional — I skip them, personal choice!)

Directions

1. Prepare the Ham: Using a sharp knife, cut around the shank. Gently work your thumb under the skin to separate it from the fat, trying not to tear the fat layer.
2. Score the Fat: Lightly score a crisscross pattern into the fat, being careful not to cut too deep. If using cloves, push one into each diamond-shaped section (optional).
3. Mix the Glaze: In a small bowl, combine apricot jam, whisky (or brandy), and mustard if using.
4. Bake: Preheat oven to 180°C. Place ham in a large baking dish and spread the glaze over the top. Bake for 50–60 minutes, basting with the glaze from the roasting pan every 10 minutes.
5. Serve: Allow the ham to cool slightly. Serve at room temperature and enjoy!

Nutrition

Varies depending on serving size and glaze coverage.

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