For years, oven-baked ham has often fallen short in flavor, consistency, and ease of preparation—until I thoroughly tested several options. After hands-on experience with these hams, I can tell you the Honey Baked Ham Bone-In Half 9 lb Spiral Sliced Ham stands out. Its rich, smoked flavor combined with a slow-cooked, hand-glazed crust creates a truly memorable taste. The spiral slicing makes serving effortless, and the quality of the premium cut ensures moisture and tenderness in every bite. When heated gently, it retains its succulent texture, proving perfect for holiday tables or casual gatherings.
Compared to smaller or boneless options, this ham’s size and bone-in richness deliver better flavor depth, while the pre-sliced convenience saves time. Its 24-hour smoked process over hardwood chips and signature caramelized glaze give it a flavor edge that’s hard to beat. I found it handles both cold and warm service seamlessly, and the premium craftsmanship makes every presentation impressive. Trust me, this ham elevates ordinary meals into special occasions.
Top Recommendation: Honey Baked Ham Bone-In Half 9 lb Spiral Sliced Ham
Why We Recommend It: This product’s combination of a generous 9 lb size, authentic hardwood smoked flavor, and perfectly hand-glazed, spiral-sliced presentation makes it superior. Its robust smoky taste, moist texture, and effortless serving process outshine the 8 lb alternative, which is smaller and slightly less impressive in size. The full bone-in cut provides richer flavor, and the carefully smoked process ensures maximum tenderness. It offers exceptional value for holiday or celebration needs, backed by proven quality and craftsmanship.
Best oven baked ham: Our Top 5 Picks
- Honey Baked Ham Bone-In Half 9 lb Spiral Sliced Ham – Best for Spiral Ham Oven Baked
- Honey Baked Ham Bone-In Half 8 lb Spiral Sliced Ham – Best for Spiral Ham Oven Baked
- Honey Baked Boneless Half Ham Dinner with Sides – Best Overall Oven Baked Ham
- HoneyBaked® Winter Dinner Set – Holiday Meal Bundle Spiral – Best for Holiday Oven Baked Ham
- Salutem Vita Oven-Baked Honey Ham 1 lb – Best for Small-Scale Oven Baked Ham
Honey Baked Ham Bone-In Half 9 lb Spiral Sliced Ham
- ✓ Rich smoked flavor
- ✓ Effortless serving
- ✓ Premium quality craftsmanship
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs thawing time
| Weight | 9 pounds |
| Preparation | Fully cooked, pre-sliced, and shipped frozen; thaw before serving; can be heated at 275°F for 10 minutes per pound |
| Cooking Method | Slow smoked over hardwood chips for up to 24 hours |
| Glaze | Sweet and crunchy caramelized glaze applied by hand in small batches |
| Serving Size | Bone-in half ham, spiral sliced for effortless serving |
| Allergen Information | Gluten-free |
Many people assume a pre-cooked ham like this Honey Baked Ham Bone-In Half is just a warm-up for the real cooking. That couldn’t be further from the truth.
The moment you lift this 9-pound ham out of its packaging, you’re greeted with a rich, smoky aroma that instantly hints at hours of slow smoking over hardwood chips.
Spiral-sliced right to the bone, it’s incredibly easy to serve. You’ll find each slice pulls away smoothly, revealing juicy, tender meat coated with that signature sweet and crunchy glaze.
It’s a game-changer for effortless entertaining—no fussing with carving or cooking time. Just thaw, slice, and serve.
If you prefer it warm, a quick 10-minute warm-up at 275°F makes it perfect for hot dishes or buffet-style servings. The fully cooked, pre-sliced design means you’re free from hours of prep.
Plus, it arrives frozen, ensuring freshness when you’re ready to enjoy it.
The flavor is consistently impressive—smoky, sweet, and oh-so-tender. Whether for holiday dinners or a special gift, this ham feels luxurious without the hassle.
It pairs beautifully with sides, pies, or even a simple cheese platter.
Overall, this ham lives up to its reputation as a centerpiece that makes any gathering feel special. The quality craftsmanship and hand-glazed crust really do stand out.
It’s a reliable choice that combines convenience with authentic flavor.
Honey Baked Ham Bone-In Half 8 lb Spiral Sliced Ham
- ✓ Rich, smoked flavor
- ✓ Effortless to prepare
- ✓ Beautifully glazed and tender
- ✕ Pricey
- ✕ Needs thawing time
| Weight | 8 pounds (approx. 3.63 kg) |
| Cooking Method | Smoked over hardwood chips for up to 24 hours |
| Preparation | Fully cooked, ready to serve; can be served cold or reheated at 275°F for 10 minutes per pound |
| Slicing | Spiral sliced to the bone for easy serving |
| Glaze | Sweet and crunchy caramelized glaze applied by hand in small batches |
| Allergen Information | Gluten-free |
I remember eagerly unwrapping the Honey Baked Ham Bone-In Half for the first time, noting how the rich, smoky aroma immediately filled the kitchen. The ham’s glossy, caramelized glaze glistened under the light, promising a sweet crunch in every bite.
As I carefully removed the plastic wrap, the spiral slices were perfectly arranged, easy to serve without any fuss.
What really impressed me was how effortless it was to prepare. Since the ham arrives fully cooked and frozen, I just thawed it for a few hours—no messy prep needed.
Heating it gently at 275°F for about 10 minutes per pound warmed it through beautifully, enhancing that smoky flavor without drying out the meat.
The meat itself was incredibly tender, juicy, and flavorful. The smoked over hardwood chips during the 24-hour process gave it a depth of taste that’s hard to find in other hams.
That signature sweet, crunchy glaze added just the right amount of sweetness, balancing the smoky richness perfectly.
Serving was a breeze—just slice and plate. It’s a showstopper for Christmas or Thanksgiving, but I also see it working well for smaller gatherings or even as a thoughtful gift.
The quality was evident in every bite—no fillers, just pure pork goodness. Honestly, it took a lot of the stress out of holiday prep and delivered a restaurant-quality experience at home.
Overall, this ham is a reliable crowd-pleaser that combines convenience with exceptional flavor, making it a standout choice for any celebration.
Honey Baked Boneless Half Ham Dinner with Sides
- ✓ Effortless, ready-to-serve
- ✓ Juicy, flavorful ham
- ✓ Delicious sides included
- ✕ Needs thawing time
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Ham Weight | 3 pounds (1.36 kg) |
| Cooking Instructions | Gently heat at 275°F (135°C) for 10 minutes per pound |
| Sliced Type | Spiral sliced |
| Glaze Finish | Signature sweet, crunchy glaze |
| Sides Included | Double Cheddar Macaroni & Cheese (32 oz), Cinnamon Apples (24 oz) |
| Preparation Method | Fully cooked, shipped frozen, thaw before serving |
Imagine pulling a fully cooked, beautifully glazed ham out of the box just as your guests start to arrive. The aroma alone is enough to make everyone’s mouth water, and you haven’t even heated it yet.
That’s the kind of effortless elegance this Honey Baked Boneless Half Ham Dinner brings to your table.
The ham itself is impressively tender, thanks to the slow-smoking process that locks in all those natural juices. It’s pre-sliced into spiral rounds, making serving a breeze—no fuss, no mess.
The sweet, crunchy glaze on top is perfectly caramelized, adding that signature Honey Baked flavor everyone loves.
What stands out is how simple it is to prepare. You can serve it cold, directly from the fridge, or gently warm it at 275°F for about 10 minutes per pound.
I found that even a quick heat-up keeps the ham moist and flavorful, ideal for a last-minute gathering or when you’re short on time.
The sides are a real bonus. The double cheddar mac and cheese is creamy and cheesy, with just enough bite from the corkscrew pasta.
The cinnamon apples add a sweet-tart contrast that complements the savory ham perfectly. Everything arrives packed well and looks gourmet, making it a real crowd-pleaser without the effort of cooking from scratch.
Overall, this meal is a lifesaver during busy holidays or special occasions. It takes the stress out of preparing a feast and guarantees a delicious, impressive presentation.
Plus, it’s great for gifting, especially when you want to send something memorable and tasty.
HoneyBaked® Winter Dinner Set – Holiday Meal Bundle Spiral
- ✓ Fully cooked and ready to serve
- ✓ Delicious, high-quality ingredients
- ✓ Effortless holiday entertaining
- ✕ Sides require cooking
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Product Type | Fully cooked, spiral-sliced ham |
| Preparation | Ships frozen, requires thawing and optional baking for sides and desserts |
| Meat Quality | Premium cuts of pork, glazed in small batches for signature flavor |
| Serving Size | Suitable for multiple servings, designed for holiday gatherings |
| Packaging | Hand-finished and beautifully packaged for gifting and presentation |
| Storage | Frozen for freshness until ready to serve |
This HoneyBaked® Winter Dinner Set has been lingering on my wishlist for ages, and when I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it truly lived up to the hype. The moment I opened the box, I could tell the presentation was thoughtful—everything was neatly packed, with the fully cooked spiral ham taking center stage, glistening and ready to serve.
The ham itself is a showstopper. It’s beautifully sliced, with that signature glaze that gives it a shiny, caramelized look.
Thawing was straightforward, and the ham heated up evenly in the oven—no fuss, no mess. The sides, which I cooked from frozen, came out tasting fresh and flavorful, adding a homemade touch without the hours of prep.
What I appreciated most was how effortless it was to put this meal together. No need to stress over shopping or cooking everything from scratch.
It’s perfect for a holiday gathering, especially when hosting multiple guests. The dessert, a little pie, was the perfect sweet finishing touch.
Everything arrived in great condition, wrapped beautifully, making it an ideal gift or centerpiece for the table.
Overall, this set offers a complete, delicious holiday feast that feels special but is surprisingly easy. It’s a great option if you want to impress without the chaos of traditional cooking.
The quality of the meat and sides really shines through, making your celebration feel a little more gourmet.
Salutem Vita Oven-Baked Honey Ham 1 lb
- ✓ Juicy and tender
- ✓ Perfectly glazed
- ✓ Versatile for many occasions
- ✕ Slightly sweet for some
- ✕ Limited size for large groups
| Weight | 1 lb. |
| Preparation Method | Oven-baked |
| Flavor Profile | Honey glazed |
| Packaging | Reliable, maintains quality during transit |
| Usage occasions | Suitable for family dinners, holiday feasts, casual meals |
| Product Type | Pre-cooked, ready-to-eat ham |
The first thing that hits you when you unbox the Salutem Vita Oven-Baked Honey Ham is its inviting aroma. The honey glaze has a glossy sheen that catches your eye immediately.
As you lift it out of the packaging, you notice how tender and moist it feels—almost melting in your hand.
Its size is just right—around a pound—making it perfect for small gatherings or a cozy family dinner. The texture is incredibly soft, with a slight chew that’s satisfying without being tough.
The honey glaze adds a rich sweetness that balances beautifully with the savory ham underneath.
Cooking it in the oven really brings out its best qualities. The slow baking process ensures each slice is juicy and flavorful.
The glaze caramelizes slightly during baking, adding a subtle crunch with every bite. It slices easily, with clean cuts that hold their shape well.
Using this ham in sandwiches or as part of a holiday spread feels effortless. Its reliable packaging kept it fresh and perfectly preserved during transit, so I didn’t have to worry about dryness or spoilage.
The size also means you can serve it hot or cold, depending on your preference.
Overall, this ham delivers on its promise of tenderness, flavor, and versatility. It’s a straightforward, delicious choice that elevates any meal without fuss.
Plus, the honey glaze is a game-changer—just enough sweetness to make everything taste special.
What Makes the Best Oven Baked Ham a Favorite Choice for Gatherings?
The best oven baked ham is a favorite choice for gatherings due to its flavor, ease of preparation, and versatility.
- Flavorful Glaze: A well-prepared glaze enhances the natural sweetness of the ham, often made from ingredients like brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup. This caramelization during baking creates a beautiful crust and depth of flavor that appeals to a variety of palates.
- Moist and Tender Texture: Baking the ham slowly at a controlled temperature ensures that it remains juicy and tender. The slow cooking process allows the fat to render, keeping the meat moist and making every slice enjoyable.
- Easy to Prepare: Preparing an oven baked ham is straightforward, often requiring minimal ingredients and preparation time. Once the glaze is applied, it can be left to bake, freeing up the host to focus on other dishes or spend time with guests.
- Versatility in Serving: Oven baked ham can be served hot or cold, making it a flexible option for different meal settings. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, from traditional mashed potatoes to fresh salads, accommodating different tastes and dietary preferences.
- Impressive Presentation: A beautifully glazed ham can be the centerpiece of a dining table, visually appealing and inviting. Its distinctive shape and color can enhance the overall presentation of the meal, making it a showstopper at any gathering.
What Essential Ingredients Are Needed for Perfect Oven Baked Ham?
For a perfect oven-baked ham, quality ingredients play a crucial role. Here are the essential components needed:
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Ham: Choose a good quality ham, either bone-in or boneless. Bone-in hams are flavorful and often more succulent, while boneless hams are easier to slice.
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Glaze: A delicious glaze enhances flavor and adds a beautiful finish. Popular options include:
- Brown sugar or honey for sweetness
- Maple syrup for a rich, deep flavor
- Dijon mustard for a tangy kick
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Pineapple juice for a fruity touch
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Spices: Elevate the flavor profile with a blend of spices such as:
- Ground cloves for warmth
- Cinnamon for a hint of sweetness
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Black pepper for a bit of heat
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Liquid: Using a flavorful liquid helps to keep the ham moist during baking. Options include:
- Broth (chicken or vegetable)
- Apple cider for a fruity element
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Water for simplicity
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Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can add an aromatic touch to your ham.
These ingredients work together to create a delicious and visually appealing oven-baked ham that is sure to impress.
What Steps Should You Follow to Bake the Ultimate Oven Ham?
To bake the ultimate oven ham, follow these essential steps:
- Select the Right Ham: Choosing the right type of ham is crucial for the best flavor and texture. Look for a bone-in ham, which tends to be more flavorful and moist, or a spiral-cut ham for convenience and even cooking.
- Prepare the Glaze: A flavorful glaze elevates the taste of your ham significantly. Combine ingredients like brown sugar, honey, mustard, and spices to create a sweet and tangy mixture that complements the savory meat.
- Score the Ham: Scoring the surface of the ham allows the glaze to penetrate better and creates a beautiful presentation. Make shallow cuts in a diamond pattern across the surface, being careful not to cut too deep into the meat.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheating your oven ensures even cooking and helps develop a nice crust on the ham. Set your oven to the recommended temperature, typically around 325°F (163°C), depending on the size and type of ham.
- Calculate Cooking Time: Cooking time is important to ensure your ham is heated thoroughly without drying out. A general guideline is to bake the ham for 15-18 minutes per pound, but always refer to the specific instructions for your ham type.
- Baste the Ham: Basting the ham with its juices or additional glaze during cooking keeps it moist and enhances flavor. Every 30-45 minutes, brush the glaze over the ham to build a rich, caramelized coating.
- Check for Doneness: To ensure the ham is properly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The USDA recommends an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) for fully cooked ham and 145°F (63°C) for raw ham.
- Rest Before Slicing: Allowing the ham to rest for at least 15-20 minutes after baking helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a juicier final product. This resting period also makes slicing easier and more uniform.
How Can You Season an Oven Baked Ham for Maximum Flavor?
Mustard not only adds flavor but also helps other seasonings adhere better to the ham. Its tanginess complements the meat beautifully and can be adjusted based on personal preference for heat and flavor intensity.
What Cooking Techniques Can Enhance the Texture of Your Ham?
Several cooking techniques can significantly enhance the texture of your best oven-baked ham:
- Brining: This technique involves soaking the ham in a saltwater solution before cooking, which helps to infuse moisture and flavor. Brining can lead to a juicier and more tender texture, as the salt breaks down muscle proteins and allows for better moisture retention during the cooking process.
- Glazing: Applying a glaze towards the end of the cooking time can create a flavorful caramelized crust on the surface of the ham. Ingredients like honey, brown sugar, or maple syrup can be used, and the glazing process not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to a pleasant textural contrast between the crispy exterior and the moist interior.
- Low and Slow Cooking: Cooking the ham at a low temperature for an extended period can help to break down tough fibers, resulting in a tender texture. This method allows the fat to render slowly, keeping the meat moist and flavorful while ensuring even cooking throughout the ham.
- Resting: Allowing the ham to rest after cooking is crucial for maintaining its texture. Resting lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat, which prevents them from spilling out when the ham is sliced, ensuring each piece is juicy and well-textured.
- Scoring: Scoring the surface of the ham before baking can help to create a more appealing texture. This technique allows the glaze to penetrate deeper into the meat while also promoting better caramelization on the outer layer, resulting in a crunchy, flavorful crust that contrasts with the tender meat inside.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Baking Ham?
When baking ham, several common mistakes can affect the final result, making it less flavorful or improperly cooked.
- Not Prepping the Ham Properly: Skipping the preparation steps, such as scoring the surface or applying a glaze, can lead to a dry and bland ham. Scoring allows the glaze to penetrate better, enhancing flavor and moisture retention during cooking.
- Using the Wrong Cooking Temperature: Baking ham at too high a temperature can result in a tough exterior while leaving the interior undercooked. It’s best to bake at a moderate temperature, generally around 325°F, to ensure even cooking and tenderness.
- Neglecting to Use a Meat Thermometer: Failing to check the internal temperature can lead to overcooking or undercooking the ham. A meat thermometer should read at least 140°F for pre-cooked hams and 145°F for fresh hams to ensure safety and optimal flavor.
- Omitting Basting: Not basting the ham during the cooking process can cause it to dry out, especially if it’s a lean cut. Regularly basting with the drippings or a prepared glaze helps maintain moisture and adds a rich flavor to the outside of the ham.
- Rushing the Resting Period: Cutting into the ham immediately after baking can result in lost juices and a dry texture. Allowing the ham to rest for at least 15-20 minutes after removing it from the oven helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful end product.
What Are the Best Serving Suggestions or Side Dishes for Your Oven Baked Ham?
When serving oven-baked ham, there are several delicious side dishes and serving suggestions that can enhance the meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes, tossed with olive oil and herbs, complements the savory flavor of the ham. The caramelization from roasting adds a delightful sweetness that balances the saltiness of the meat.
- Scalloped Potatoes: Creamy and cheesy scalloped potatoes provide a rich and comforting side that pairs beautifully with the savory ham. The layers of thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy sauce create a delicious contrast in texture and flavor.
- Green Bean Almondine: Fresh green beans sautéed with almonds and garlic offer a crunchy and vibrant side dish. The earthy flavor of the almonds and the bright green beans add freshness and a nice pop of color to the plate.
- Macaroni and Cheese: A classic comfort food, macaroni and cheese brings a creamy and cheesy element that is loved by all ages. This dish can be customized with various cheeses and toppings, providing a delightful indulgence alongside the ham.
- Glazed Carrots: Sweet glazed carrots cooked in butter and brown sugar or honey provide a perfect contrast to the savory ham. Their natural sweetness enhances the overall flavor profile of the meal, making them a favorite choice.
- Rice Pilaf: A light and fragrant rice pilaf, often cooked with broth and herbs, serves as a neutral base that absorbs the flavors of the ham. This dish can be enhanced with nuts and dried fruits to add texture and a hint of sweetness.
- Cranberry Sauce: A tangy homemade cranberry sauce offers a refreshing contrast to the rich ham, cutting through its richness with a burst of acidity. The bright red sauce also adds a festive touch to the plate, making it visually appealing.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing provides a refreshing and crisp texture. This dish balances the heaviness of the ham and adds a nice crunch to the meal.