How to Cook a Spiral Ham: Your Summertime Star in Western Mass
Summertime in Western Massachusetts is here, and a spiral ham is the jam for your next gathering!
Whether you’re in Springfield, Chicopee, Holyoke, Westfield, or Agawam, this guide on how to cook a spiral ham will make your meal unforgettable.
Posting this at the end of May, we’re kicking off summer with spiral ham summer recipes and glazed ham ideas that shine.
These Hands Work LLC is ready to cater your summer events with the same flair—let’s make your ham the star!
Why Spiral Ham Is a Summer Hit
Spiral hams aren’t just for holidays—they’re perfect for summer cookouts in Longmeadow, Ludlow, or Palmer.
Pre-sliced and easy to flavor, they’re a crowd-pleaser for summer barbecue meats.
With the right prep, your spiral ham can steal the show at any Western Mass gathering.
Pro Tip: Use a locally sourced ham to support your Western Mass farmers and butchers!
Step-by-Step Recipe on How to Cook a Spiral Ham
Ingredients (for 4 servings):
🍖 7–8 lb spiral ham (pre-cooked)
🍍 1/2 cup pineapple juice
🍬 1/4 cup brown sugar
🥄 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
🍯 1 tbsp honey
🌿 1/4 tsp ground cloves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Place ham in a roasting pan, cut side down.
3. Mix pineapple juice, brown sugar, mustard, honey, and cloves for the glaze.
4. Brush half the glaze over the ham, cover with foil, and bake for 1.5 hours (10 minutes per pound).
5. Uncover, brush with remaining glaze, and bake 15 more minutes until golden.
6. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.
This glazed ham idea brings sweet and savory to your summer table!
5 Ways to Make Your Spiral Ham the Main Attraction
Elevate your spiral ham summer recipes with these ideas:
Grill It for Smoky Flavor:
After baking, finish on a grill over indirect heat for 10 minutes to add a smoky char—perfect for summer barbecue meats.
Glaze with a Twist:
Swap pineapple juice for mango or peach nectar for a tropical vibe that screams summer in East Longmeadow.
Slice and Stuff:
Cut slices halfway through baking, stuff with pineapple rings or herbs, and continue cooking for a stunning presentation.
Serve Cold with a Salad Bar:
Chill the ham after cooking and pair with fresh salads for a refreshing Wilbraham picnic spread.
Spice It Up:
Add a kick with a glaze of honey, sriracha, and lime juice for a bold glazed ham idea that surprises guests in Palmer.
Let Us Cater Your Summer Gatherings
Want to impress without the effort?
📞 Book a free consultation with Chef Idella to plan your perfect summer menu with These Hands Work LLC catering services in Western Massachusetts.
From spiral hams to full spreads, we’ve got you covered.
Grab 9 Free Recipes to Kick Off Summer
Start your summer cooking with 9 free recipes from Chef Idella!
Download now to master dishes like this spiral ham and explore more spiral ham summer recipes.
📍 Perfect for Western Mass—get yours today!
Final Bite: Make Your Summer Gatherings Shine
Make your summer gatherings shine with this how-to cook a spiral ham guide.
These Hands Work LLC is here to bring the same magic to your events—book your free consultation and let’s make your summer delicious!
About me
I'm a chef and food lover from Springfield, raised on the magic of home-cooked meals and bringing people together through food.
