April 15th, 2026

National Glazed Spiral Ham Day

Get ready to ham it up because it’s National Glazed Spiral Ham Day! This delicious celebration is all about that perfectly baked, sweetly glazed spiral ham goodness that graces many a holiday table. Whether you're a fan of the honey glaze or something a bit more adventurous, today's the day to savor those savory spirals. Invite friends and family, share some sides, and perhaps engage in a heated debate about the best glaze recipe. It’s a day to pig out and enjoy the classic feast!

Written by: Emma Thompson Emma Thompson - (updated: April 14th, 2025 at 9:40AM)

Imagine a holiday dedicated entirely to relishing the succulent sweetness and savory goodness of a classic dish, bringing people together to create lasting memories around the dinner table. Welcome to National Glazed Spiral Ham Day, a delightful celebration that honors the rich flavors and aromas of this mouthwatering centerpiece!NationalGlazedSpiralHamDay

What's the big deal about glazed spiral ham?

For many, glazed spiral ham is more than just a dish; it's a symbol of warmth and togetherness, often served as the star of family gatherings and festive meals. Its sweet and sticky glaze, paired with tender, juicy ham, creates a flavor profile that's both familiar and irresistible. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer to the world of glazed spiral ham, this special day serves as the perfect excuse to gather together and indulge in this culinary delight!

Traditions and customs surrounding National Glazed Spiral Ham Day

On this special day, families and friends come together to share stories, laughter, and, of course, generous slices of glazed spiral ham. The traditional centerpiece of the celebration, the ham is often accompanied by an array of delectable side dishes and refreshing beverages. It's a time to reconnect with loved ones, forge new memories, and pass down cherished family recipes to the next generation.

In many households, the day kicks off with a festive brunch, where glazed spiral ham takes center stage. Cousins, aunts, and uncles gather around the table, swapping tales of old while savoring the flavors and aromas of the celebratory dish. As the day unfolds, the warmth and camaraderie only intensify, with laughter, games, and merriment filling the air.

Tips for celebrating National Glazed Spiral Ham Day like a pro!

Ready to make the most of this delicious holiday? Here are some tips to elevate your celebration:

By embracing the spirit of National Glazed Spiral Ham Day, you'll be well on your way to creating unforgettable memories with the people you love. So go ahead, gather 'round the table, and indulge in the sweet and savory goodness of this beloved dish!

A symbol of warmth and togetherness

In the end, National Glazed Spiral Ham Day transcends a mere celebration of a tasty dish; it's a celebration of the people and traditions that bring us joy. As you sit around the dinner table, surrounded by those you cherish, remember that it's the shared moments, laughter, and memories that truly make this holiday special.

So here's to National Glazed Spiral Ham Day—a time to come together, savor the flavors, and cherish the love and laughter that surrounds us! As you celebrate, may your heart be as full as your plate, and may the memories you create linger long after the day ends.

Updated on April 14th, 2025 by Emma Thompson:

In addition to its significance in American culture, glazed spiral ham has also gained popularity in other parts of the world, where it's often served as a show-stopping centerpiece for special occasions. In Germany, for instance, a sweet and savory ham dish called "Schinken" is a staple at many family gatherings, while in Sweden, glazed ham is a popular accompaniment to traditional Lucia celebrations.

Interestingly, the origins of glazed spiral ham can be traced back to ancient Europe, where farmers would carefully cure and smoke hams to preserve them for the winter months. The sweet glaze, made from ingredients like honey, brown sugar, and spices, was added later, likely as a way to balance the savory flavor of the ham. Today, this traditional technique has evolved into the mouthwatering dish we know and love, enjoyed by people around the world.

As you celebrate this special day, consider sharing your own family's glazed spiral ham traditions on social media, using hashtags like #GlazedSpiralHamLove or #HamItUp. You might just inspire a new wave of ham enthusiasts to get creative with their own recipes and celebrations!

Recipe for National Glazed Spiral Ham Day

Celebrate National Glazed Spiral Ham Day with this sweet and savory recipe, perfect for gathering with loved ones! Inspired by the traditional centerpiece of family gatherings, this Caramelized Pineapple and Pecan Glazed Ham is a delicious twist on the classic dish. With a sweet and sticky glaze, crunchy pecans, and caramelized pineapple rings, this ham is sure to be the star of your celebration.



Nutrition Facts
Calories350 calories
Total Fat20g
Total Carbohydrate30g
Protein25g

Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Cooking Method: Baking

Category: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Yield: 8-10 servings

Suitable For Diet: Meat Lover's

Ingredients

NationalPecanCookieDay recipe

Materials

Steps

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. In a large skillet, caramelize the pineapple rings over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and sticky.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and pineapple juice to make the glaze.
  4. Place the spiral-cut ham on a baking sheet, scoring the surface in a diamond pattern.
  5. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
  6. Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the glaze.
  7. Bake the ham for 2-1/2 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
  8. Arrange the caramelized pineapple rings on top of the ham during the last 30 minutes of baking.
  9. Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Timeline
1937
First Canned Ham
The first canned ham was produced by Armour & Company, paving the way for glazed spiral ham.
1959
Introduction of Spiral Cut
The spiral cut, which allows for easy glazing, was introduced by Harry J. Hoenselaar of HoneyBaked Ham.
1966
HoneyBaked Ham Founded
HoneyBaked Ham was founded, popularizing the glazed spiral ham across the United States.
1993
National Glazed Spiral Ham Day Born
National Glazed Spiral Ham Day was first celebrated, honoring the delicious and savory treat.
2019
Ham Sales Soar
Glazed spiral ham sales reached an all-time high, solidifying its place in American culinary culture.
National Glazed Spiral Ham Day
FAQ
What is the origin of glazed spiral ham and how is it related to National Glazed Spiral Ham Day?
Glazed spiral ham is believed to have originated in Europe, and National Glazed Spiral Ham Day celebrates the delicious and sweet flavor of this popular cured meat.
How do I prepare a glazed spiral ham for National Glazed Spiral Ham Day?
To prepare a glazed spiral ham, score the surface of the ham, mix a glaze made from ingredients like brown sugar, mustard, and spices, and bake in the oven until caramelized.
What are some popular ways to serve glazed spiral ham on National Glazed Spiral Ham Day?
Glazed spiral ham can be served as a main dish, used in sandwiches, or diced and added to salads or pasta dishes.
Can I make a glazed spiral ham from scratch on National Glazed Spiral Ham Day?
Yes, you can make a glazed spiral ham from scratch on National Glazed Spiral Ham Day. It requires curing and smoking the ham, then applying a glaze and baking to perfection.
What are some health benefits of consuming glazed spiral ham on National Glazed Spiral Ham Day?
Glazed spiral ham is a good source of protein, and when consumed in moderation, can provide essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals.
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