Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham with Fig and Thyme

This spiral-cut ham glazed with a fig-and-thyme reduction is your new holiday MVP. The sticky-sweet blend of fruit and herbs creates a beautiful crust while keeping the interior juicy and tender. It’s visually stunning, richly flavored, and just the thing for a festive family meal. What makes this dish especially remarkable is how effortless it is to prepare despite its wow-factor appeal. You can swap out the glaze for any of the recipe’s three options—each bringing a unique twist to this timeless centerpiece. Pair it with seasonal sides and warm rolls for a showstopping spread your guests won’t forget.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 (7- to 10-lb.) fully cooked bone-in spiral-cut half ham

• 1 cup fig preserves

• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

• 1/4 cup honey

• 1 tablespoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and position the rack in the lower third. Let ham sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.

2. Line a roasting pan with foil and place a rack inside. Pour 3 cups of water into the bottom of the pan. Place the ham cut-side down on the rack.

3. Bake the ham for 1 hour and 30 minutes, basting with pan drippings every 30 minutes. Add more water if necessary to prevent drying.

4. While the ham bakes, combine fig preserves, apple cider vinegar, honey, thyme, and pepper in a saucepan. Simmer over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes, whisking occasionally. Reduce heat and continue to simmer until thickened and reduced by half, about 20 minutes.

5. After the initial baking time, brush half of the glaze over the ham and return it to the oven for 15 minutes.

6. Brush with the remaining glaze and continue baking for another 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.

7. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh figs and thyme sprigs if desired.

Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 2 hours | Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Kcal: ~370 kcal per serving | Servings: 15 servings

The Timeless Appeal of Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham

When it comes to iconic centerpiece dishes, few are as beloved and widely celebrated as a glazed spiral-cut ham. Whether it’s gracing a holiday table at Easter, Thanksgiving, or Christmas, or being served up for a special Sunday dinner, this dish never fails to impress. But beyond its stunning presentation, it’s the irresistible combination of juicy meat and sticky-sweet glaze that keeps guests coming back for more.

Our recipe for Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham with Fig and Thyme elevates the traditional ham experience. It introduces a modern yet classic twist, layering sweet fig preserves and floral thyme over tender, slow-roasted pork. The result is a luxurious flavor profile that hits every note: sweet, savory, herbal, and slightly tangy.

Why Spiral-Cut Ham is a Favorite for Entertaining

Spiral-cut ham has become a go-to for hosts everywhere because it’s practically foolproof. It comes pre-cooked and pre-sliced, which means less stress in the kitchen and easier serving at the table. Unlike bone-in roasts or other meats that require complicated carving or thermometers, spiral ham allows for effortless slicing along the natural cuts. It’s ideal for large gatherings because it not only serves a crowd but often results in delicious leftovers that can be repurposed in countless ways.

The Origins of Glazed Ham in Southern Cuisine

The roots of glazed ham trace back through centuries of Southern culinary tradition. In Southern cooking, pork has long been a staple, prized for its versatility and flavor. The idea of sweet-glazing meats—especially pork—arose from the region’s abundance of ingredients like molasses, honey, brown sugar, and fruit preserves. Over time, this evolved into the glossy, sticky glazes we associate with holiday hams today.

The addition of fig preserves in this recipe nods to that history while giving it a fresh, gourmet edge. Figs have been a cherished Southern fruit for generations, often used in jams and cakes. Paired with thyme—a subtle herb that complements pork beautifully—it brings together old-fashioned charm and new-age flavor.

What Makes This Glaze So Special

The fig-and-thyme glaze in this recipe is the real star. Fig preserves bring a natural sweetness and depth, while apple cider vinegar cuts through the richness with a touch of acidity. Honey adds gloss and stickiness, and the dried thyme and pepper finish it off with a gentle herbal kick.

Unlike many store-bought glaze packets that are overly sweet and one-dimensional, this glaze is complex and refined. It creates a beautiful caramelization on the outer layers of the ham without overwhelming the natural flavor of the meat. The basting and dual-glazing method ensures that the ham stays moist inside while the outside develops a flavorful crust.

Health Benefits of Choosing Bone-In Spiral-Cut Ham

While ham is undoubtedly an indulgent dish, there are a few nutritional perks worth noting:

• High in Protein: Ham is a rich source of protein, essential for muscle maintenance and energy.
• Packed with Micronutrients: Ham provides important nutrients such as iron, potassium, zinc, and B vitamins—especially B12, which supports nerve health.
• Low in Carbs: For those following a lower-carb lifestyle, ham fits beautifully into the mix.

Opting for a bone-in spiral-cut ham also has added benefits. The bone helps the meat retain moisture, making it more flavorful. And if you’re a culinary enthusiast, the leftover bone can be used to flavor soups, stews, or beans—extending the value of your meal even further.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the best parts of this recipe is its versatility. While it shines on holiday tables, it’s also an excellent choice for birthdays, anniversaries, or Sunday dinners when you want to serve something with a wow-factor.

And let’s not forget the leftovers. Spiral ham is famous for being just as good—if not better—the next day. You can transform the leftover slices into sandwiches, omelets, casseroles, or toss them into salads and soups. It’s a gift that keeps on giving.

Tips for Success

Cooking a spiral ham is straightforward, but here are a few expert tips to ensure it comes out perfect every time:

• Don’t skip the resting period: Letting the ham rest after roasting ensures the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making every slice juicy and tender.
• Use a roasting rack: Elevating the ham allows for more even cooking and prevents the bottom from becoming soggy.
• Baste frequently: The more you baste with pan drippings, the more moisture you retain, and the more flavorful the final product.
• Glaze in stages: Adding the glaze toward the end of cooking keeps the sugars from burning and gives you that glossy, caramelized finish.

Pairing Suggestions for a Complete Meal

To create a memorable dining experience, serve your glazed ham with sides that balance and enhance its flavor. Here are some classic Southern-inspired pairings:

• Hashbrown Casserole: Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying.
• Classic Deviled Eggs: A tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the glaze.
• Skillet Roasted Carrots: Earthy and slightly sweet to match the fig glaze.
• Cornbread Casserole: A Southern staple that soaks up ham drippings like a dream.
• Parker House Rolls: Soft and buttery for sopping up all that glaze.
• Romaine Salad with Oranges and Radishes: Adds freshness and crunch to the meal.

Make It Your Own: Glaze Variations

While the fig-and-thyme glaze is a standout, the original Southern Living recipe also includes two other delicious glaze options you can experiment with:

• Sage-and-Cider Glaze: Made with cane syrup, spiced apple cider, and sage, this variation is aromatic and warmly spiced.
• Ginger-Clove Glaze: Combines maple syrup, ginger beer, and cloves for a more exotic, zesty profile.

Feel free to mix and match glaze options based on your guests’ preferences or the seasonal vibe of your gathering.

Garnishing and Presentation Tips

Presentation matters—especially when you’re bringing a dish to the holiday table. After the ham is glazed and rested, transfer it to a serving platter and get creative with garnishes that reflect your glaze flavors.

For the fig and thyme glaze, consider decorating the platter with:

• Whole or halved fresh figs (if in season)
• Fresh thyme sprigs
• Citrus slices (like blood orange or mandarin)
• Small edible flowers for a springtime touch

This not only makes the dish Instagram-worthy but helps guests visually identify the flavor profile.

Storage and Leftover Ideas

Once cooled, wrap the ham tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for 3–5 days, or you can freeze slices for up to two months.

Here are some tasty leftover ideas:

• Ham and cheese sliders
• Breakfast quiche with ham and spinach
• Ham and bean soup using the leftover bone
• Grilled ham and brie sandwiches
• Ham fried rice for a quick weeknight dinner

Why This Recipe Deserves a Spot on Your Holiday Table

This spiral-cut ham recipe stands out for its balance of ease and elegance. It’s accessible for novice cooks but impressive enough for seasoned chefs. The glaze is unique, the meat turns out perfectly moist every time, and the leftovers are a meal-prep dream.

If you’re tired of the same old honey-glazed ham or the generic packets that come with store-bought options, this recipe offers something extraordinary. It’s rooted in Southern tradition but feels fresh and gourmet. Most importantly, it brings people together around the table—which is exactly what great food is meant to do.

Conclusion

Whether you’re planning your next holiday gathering or looking for a show-stopping dish to anchor a special meal, this Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham with Fig and Thyme delivers every time. Its flavor is both nostalgic and innovative, and its presentation is bound to make a statement. With minimal effort and maximum impact, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again—for holidays, celebrations, and any time you want to cook something truly unforgettable.