Irresistible Cranberry-Chipotle Ham Recipe Perfect for Holidays

Posted on October 29, 2025

The aroma of a slow-roasted ham wafting through the house instantly feels like the holidays have arrived. Picture this: a juicy, tender ham coated in a sweet and smoky cranberry-chipotle glaze that sparkles in the light, begging you to take just one more bite. This recipe is my absolute go-to for holiday feasts, family gatherings, or when I simply want to impress a table full of hungry guests without breaking a sweat. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll never go back to the plain old ham again.

I first stumbled upon the idea of combining cranberry and chipotle flavors during a holiday potluck. A friend brought a cranberry-based salsa with a smoky kick, and it was so good that I immediately started brainstorming ways to incorporate those flavors into my cooking. That’s how this cranberry-chipotle glazed ham recipe was born! It’s the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky—a delightful twist on the traditional holiday ham.

This recipe is made for big celebrations, but honestly, it’s so simple you could whip it up anytime you’re craving bold flavors and tender, juicy meat. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a weekend get-together, this ham is bound to steal the spotlight. Let’s dive in and make something unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect for the Holidays: The cranberry-chipotle glaze is a festive and flavorful twist that’s ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion.
Sweet and Smoky Flavor: The combination of tart cranberries and smoky chipotle peppers creates a mouthwatering glaze that elevates the ham to a whole new level.
Effortless Elegance: While it looks and tastes gourmet, this recipe is surprisingly easy to prepare and doesn’t require any fancy techniques.
Feeds a Crowd: A glazed ham is always a hit at holiday gatherings, and this recipe ensures there’s plenty to go around.
Customizable: Adjust the chipotle heat or sweetness to suit your family’s preferences—this is your ham, your rules!
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the glaze in advance, and the ham can be served warm or at room temperature, making this recipe super flexible for your busy holiday schedule.

What sets this cranberry-chipotle ham apart is the glaze itself. It’s not your typical sticky-sweet topping. The tart cranberries balance the smoky heat of chipotle peppers, and a touch of brown sugar ties it all together with a caramelized finish. Whether you’re serving it as the centerpiece of your holiday table or using leftovers for sandwiches the next day, this recipe is a guaranteed winner.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe combines pantry staples and a few seasonal favorites to create a show-stopping main dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

Bone-in ham: About 7-9 pounds, spiral-sliced for easy serving.
Cranberry sauce: Homemade or store-bought. Make sure it’s the whole berry variety for texture.
Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce: These smoky, spicy peppers are the star of the glaze. Adjust quantity to your spice preference.
Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a caramelized glaze.
Orange juice: Freshly squeezed is best for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Honey: Adds a touch of natural sweetness and helps the glaze stick to the ham.
Dijon mustard: For a tangy kick and depth of flavor.
Garlic powder: Enhances the savory profile of the glaze.
Smoked paprika: Boosts the smoky flavor of the chipotle peppers.
Optional spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra festive touch.

If you’re missing an ingredient or need to adapt, don’t worry! You can substitute the cranberry sauce with pomegranate molasses for a unique twist, or use maple syrup instead of honey for a deeper flavor. The chipotle peppers can also be swapped for smoked paprika if you prefer less heat.

Equipment Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make this cranberry-chipotle glazed ham:

Roasting pan: A sturdy pan with high sides to hold the ham and any drippings.
Aluminum foil: Essential for covering the ham to prevent it from drying out.
Small saucepan: To prepare the cranberry-chipotle glaze.
Basting brush: For evenly spreading the glaze over the ham.
Meat thermometer: To ensure your ham is cooked to perfection.

If you don’t have a roasting pan, a large oven-safe dish will work just fine. And if you don’t have a basting brush, you can use a spoon to drizzle the glaze over your ham—just make sure to spread it evenly!

Preparation Method

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C) and position the rack in the lower third.
Prepare the ham: Remove the ham from its packaging and place it in a roasting pan, cut side down. Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
Make the glaze: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup cranberry sauce, 2-3 chopped chipotle peppers with 1 tablespoon of adobo sauce, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup orange juice, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika. Stir over medium heat until the mixture is smooth and heated through, about 5-7 minutes. Taste and adjust sweetness or spiciness as needed.
Bake the ham: Place the covered ham in the preheated oven and bake for about 1.5 hours (15 minutes per pound).
Glaze the ham: Remove the ham from the oven and uncover. Brush generously with the cranberry-chipotle glaze, making sure to coat all sides evenly.
Caramelize the glaze: Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (204°C) and return the ham to the oven, uncovered. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, basting every 5 minutes with more glaze for extra flavor and shine.
Rest and serve: Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy.

Pro tip: If you’re worried about the glaze burning, keep an eye on the ham during the caramelization step. A little bit of charring is fine—it adds flavor—but you don’t want to overdo it.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Choose the right ham: A spiral-sliced, bone-in ham is ideal for this recipe. The slices soak up the glaze better and make serving a breeze.
Don’t skip the foil: Covering the ham during the initial baking ensures it stays moist and tender.
Glaze generously: Don’t hold back when brushing on the glaze. More glaze equals more flavor!
Monitor the caramelization: Keep an eye on the ham during the final baking step to avoid burning the glaze.
Use a meat thermometer: The ham is ready when the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Overcooking can lead to dryness.

If you’re multitasking, prepare the glaze ahead of time. It can be stored in the fridge for up to three days and reheated when ready to use.

Variations & Adaptations

Spicy variation: Add an extra chipotle pepper or a dash of cayenne for more heat.
Sweet twist: Swap the cranberry sauce for apricot jam or cherry preserves for a fruitier glaze.
Dietary adaptation: Use a sugar-free cranberry sauce and a sugar substitute to make this recipe keto-friendly.
Cooking method: If you don’t want to use the oven, try preparing the ham in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, then finish it in the oven for 15 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
Personal favorite: Add a splash of bourbon to the glaze for a smoky, sophisticated flavor that pairs beautifully with the chipotle peppers.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This cranberry-chipotle glazed ham is best served warm, but it’s just as delicious at room temperature. Slice thick, juicy pieces and arrange them on a platter for a stunning presentation. Garnish with fresh rosemary or orange slices for a festive touch.

Pair your ham with classic holiday sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or buttery dinner rolls. For drinks, a glass of sparkling cider or a robust red wine complements the smoky-sweet flavors beautifully.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a little extra glaze to revive the flavors.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This cranberry-chipotle glazed ham is a great source of protein, with approximately 25 grams per serving. Cranberries add a dose of antioxidants, while the chipotle peppers bring a metabolism-boosting kick. With a balance of sweet and savory flavors, it’s a delicious way to enjoy a holiday meal without feeling weighed down.

If you’re watching your sugar intake, you can opt for sugar-free cranberry sauce and use a sugar substitute to lighten things up. Just be mindful that ham can be high in sodium, so pair it with lighter sides to balance your meal.

Conclusion

This irresistible cranberry-chipotle glazed ham recipe is more than just a dish—it’s an experience. The combination of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors creates a holiday centerpiece that will have your guests talking long after the plates are cleared.

What’s your favorite way to enjoy holiday ham? I’d love to hear about your variations or how this recipe turned out for you. Leave a comment below and let’s swap ideas! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family—it’s too good to keep to yourself. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use a boneless ham for this recipe?

Absolutely! While I recommend a bone-in ham for maximum flavor, a boneless ham works just as well. Adjust cooking time based on the size of the ham.

How can I make the glaze less spicy?

If you’re not a fan of heat, reduce the amount of chipotle peppers or use smoked paprika instead. You’ll still get that delicious smoky flavor without the spice.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the glaze up to three days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and warm it up before using.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover ham?

Reheat slices in the oven at 300°F (149°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave them in 30-second intervals until warm. Add extra glaze to keep the ham moist.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of cranberry sauce?

Yes, but you’ll need to cook them down with sugar and a bit of water to create a similar texture and sweetness to store-bought cranberry sauce.

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