Cherry Chipotle Glazed Ham That Will Wow Your Guests
Last Updated on March 13, 2026 by Carolina
When the holidays roll around, there s nothing quite like the irresistible aroma of a beautifully roasted Spiral-Cut Bone-In Ham wafting through the house. This isn t just any ham; it s a Cherry Chipotle Glazed Ham that promises to be the star of your festive spread. The juicy slices, kissed with a sweet and savory cherry preserves glaze, bring a burst of flavor that s sure to impress family and friends alike.
As I stood in my kitchen recalling last year s holiday dinner, I realized that the adventure of cooking is much more than just following a recipe it s about creating those unforgettable moments around the table. This dish manages to blend the comforting familiarity of traditional ham with a surprising twist that you never knew you needed. With just a few ingredients and a little patience, you ll be serving up a stunning centerpiece that turns any mealtime into a celebration. So, let s dive in and make a meal that will fill not just our bellies, but our hearts as well!
Why will you love this Cherry Chipotle Glazed Ham?
Irresistible Aroma: As this ham roasts, your kitchen will be filled with a mouthwatering scent that draws everyone in.
Flavor Explosion: The sweet cherry preserves combined with smoky chipotle create a unique glaze that elevates every bite.
Effortless Preparation: With simple steps and a little patience, you can have a stunning centerpiece without the stress.
Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it s a holiday feast or a casual gathering, this ham is sure to impress.
Crowd-Pleasing Favorite: Perfectly glazed and juicy, this dish will be a hit at dinner tables everywhere!
Cherry Chipotle Glazed Ham Ingredients
For the Ham
- 9 pound spiral-cut Bone-In Ham A juicy cut that makes serving effortlessly easy and keeps it moist during cooking.
For the Glaze
- 13 ounce jar Cherry Preserves Provides a sweet base that will beautifully balance the heat of the chipotle.
- ½ teaspoon ground Cumin Adds a warm, earthy note that enhances the overall flavor profile of the glaze.
- ¼ teaspoon ground Cinnamon Introduces a hint of sweetness and spice that complements the cherry.
- 1 teaspoon Lime Zest Brightens up the glaze with a refreshing citrus kick, enhancing its overall depth.
- Juice of 1 Valencia Orange Brings a harmonious sweetness and acidity that ties everything together perfectly.
- 2 teaspoons Adobo Sauce A must for that smoky kick, this ingredient takes your Cherry Chipotle Glazed Ham to the next level!
How to Make Cherry Chipotle Glazed Ham
Preheat the oven to 300 °F. This will ensure your ham cooks slowly and evenly, letting those flavors develop beautifully.
Place the ham cut side down in a roasting pan. Add water until it s about ¼ inch deep, then tent it with foil, crimping the edges securely. Now, pop it in the oven.
Cook until the ham s internal temperature reaches 100 °F, which usually takes about 2 to 2 ½ hours. This slow cooking will make the meat tender and juicy.
Prepare the glaze while the ham cooks. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine cherry preserves, cumin, cinnamon, lime zest, orange juice, and adobo sauce. Stir constantly and simmer for about 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
Uncover the ham after the cooking time and increase the oven temperature to 350 °F. Baste the ham with the glaze you just prepared, then do it once more before saving the remaining glaze for later.
Return the ham to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 20 minutes. This will create a beautifully caramelized, sticky glaze.
Rest the ham for 10 minutes once removed from the oven. This waiting time allows the juices to redistribute, making every slice perfectly juicy.
Optional: Serve additional glaze on the side for an extra burst of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Cherry Chipotle Glazed Ham
Room Temperature: If serving right away, keep the ham at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Fridge: Store any leftover Cherry Chipotle Glazed Ham in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keeping it well-wrapped will maintain its moistness and flavor.
Freezer: For long-term storage, slice the ham and freeze in airtight freezer bags for up to 2 months. This way, you can enjoy it later without losing its savory goodness.
Reheating: To reheat, place the ham in a covered dish in a preheated oven at 325 °F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. This will help retain its juicy texture and flavor.
Cherry Chipotle Glazed Ham Variations
Feel free to personalize your Cherry Chipotle Glazed Ham with these delightful twists and substitutions!
- Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 diced jalape os to the glaze for a zesty surprise that enhances the smoky flavor.
- Citrus Burst: Swap the Valencia orange juice for fresh grapefruit juice to introduce a tangy twist that complements the cherry well.
- Brown Sugar Boost: Mix in ¼ cup brown sugar with the glaze for added sweetness and a rich caramelized finish.
- Herbal Notes: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of fresh rosemary or thyme into the glaze for a fragrant herbal complement to the sweet and spicy elements.
- Pineapple Twist: Use crushed pineapple in place of cherry preserves for a tropical flavor explosion that will surprise your guests.
- Maple Glaze: Substitute half of the cherry preserves with maple syrup for a unique sweet and smoky flavor profile that s perfect for fall gatherings.
- Peachy Alternative: Try swapping the cherry preserves for peach preserves for a sweeter, lighter experience, contrasting beautifully with the chipotle.
- Honey Addition: Drizzle some honey over the ham before serving for an extra layer of sweetness that harmonizes with the glaze.
These variations not only cater to different tastes but also invite you to get creative in the kitchen while crafting your standout ham!
Expert Tips for Cherry Chipotle Glazed Ham
Choose Quality Ham: Opt for a well-marbled, spiral-cut bone-in ham for the best flavor and moisture retention during cooking.
Tent Properly: Make sure to crimp the foil tightly to keep moisture in; this prevents the ham from drying out and enhances flavor.
Watch the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham reaches 100 °F; overcooking can lead to a dry, less appetizing ham.
Glaze Wisely: Baste the ham with the glaze twice for maximum flavor; letting it cook uncovered allows for caramelization and depth.
Let It Rest: Don t skip the resting period after cooking; it s crucial for juicy, flavorful slices of your Cherry Chipotle Glazed Ham.
Serve Extra Glaze: Always serve extra glaze at the table for guests who want that delicious, sweet-spicy kick with every bite!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing the Cherry Chipotle Glazed Ham ahead of time can save you precious moments on a busy holiday or special gathering day! You can season the ham and apply the glaze up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to keep it fresh and flavorful. If you prefer, you can also prepare the glaze a full 3 days ahead, storing it in an airtight container in the fridge just remember to reheat it before basting the ham. When ready to cook, remove the ham from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking, then follow the original recipe instructions for a show-stopping centerpiece that s just as delicious and even less stressful!
What to Serve with Cherry Chipotle Glazed Ham?
Building the perfect meal around your glorious ham doesn t have to be a daunting task let your imagination and palate guide you!
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture pairs delightfully with the savory ham, soaking up every bit of the delicious glaze.
Tangy Coleslaw: A refreshing, crunchy slaw complements the rich flavors of the ham and adds a crisp contrast that keeps your meal balanced.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The nutty, caramelized flavor of roasted sprouts adds earthy depth to your meal, making every bite delightfully complex.
Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover glaze, ensuring that no drop of flavor goes to waste!
Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice elevated with fresh herbs brings a light, aromatic element to your plate, allowing the ham to truly shine.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots drizzle seamlessly with the cherry chipotle sauce and enhance the overall sweetness of the dish.
Sweet Potato Casserole: This dish adds a lovely creamy texture and a hint of cinnamon, beautifully complementing the overall flavor profile.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce provides a fresh contrast that brightens every mouthful of the hearty ham.
Sparkling Apple Cider: A bubbly drink adds a festive touch and a refreshing contrast, enhancing the savory notes of the Cherry Chipotle Glazed Ham.
Chocolate Mousse: End on a sweet note with a rich, velvety dessert that rounds out the meal beautifully without overshadowing the ham.
Cherry Chipotle Glazed Ham Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting a spiral-cut bone-in ham?
Absolutely! Choose a ham that is well-marbled and has a good amount of fat. This fat will keep the meat moist during cooking, ensuring that each slice is tender and juicy. Look for a ham with a nice pink color and avoid any with excessive dark spots or dryness.
How long can I store leftover Cherry Chipotle Glazed Ham in the fridge?
You can store any leftover ham in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It s important to keep it well-wrapped to maintain its moistness and flavor. If you find yourself with too much ham, don t worry there s a tasty solution waiting!
Can I freeze Cherry Chipotle Glazed Ham for later use? How?
Certainly! I often slice the ham before freezing for convenience. To freeze, place the slices in airtight freezer bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. The ham can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just remember to label your bags with the date!
How should I reheat leftover ham without drying it out?
To reheat your ham and keep it juicy, preheat your oven to 325 °F. Place the ham in a covered dish and heat it for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. This gentle method helps to retain moisture and flavor. If you like, drizzle a bit of additional glaze over it for that extra kick!
Are there any dietary considerations for Cherry Chipotle Glazed Ham?
Absolutely! This recipe contains ingredients such as cherry preserves and adobo sauce, which may include allergens. If you are serving guests with dietary restrictions, double-check the labels for any potential allergens like gluten or nuts. Additionally, keep in mind that certain pets can t consume ham, as it s high in sodium and fat. Always consult with your vet if you re unsure.
What do I do if my glaze isn t thickening?
If your glaze isn t thickening as desired, you can continue to simmer it over medium heat for a bit longer, stirring constantly. Alternatively, mixing a small amount of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry and adding that to the glaze can also help thicken it. Just ensure to let it cook for a few more minutes to incorporate the cornstarch fully!