10 Deliciously Simple Easter Ham Recipes for Busy Cooks are here to take the stress out of your holiday meal without sacrificing flavor or presentation. Easter dinner should be a time of joy, laughter, and good food—not hours spent in the kitchen juggling complicated recipes. If you’re short on time but still want to serve something truly special, this list is exactly what you need.
These easy-to-follow ham recipes are perfect for anyone looking to whip up a memorable holiday centerpiece with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a full spread or just bringing a dish to share, each recipe focuses on simple ingredients and quick prep. From slow cooker favorites to oven-baked classics with flavorful glazes, these dishes are designed to save you time while still delivering that festive, mouthwatering taste everyone looks forward to.
You’ll find recipes with honey-mustard glazes, brown sugar and pineapple combinations, maple-mustard infusions, and even a few savory surprises. Best of all, each one comes together with easy steps, leaving you more time to enjoy the holiday with family and friends.
So if you’re a busy cook looking to impress without the stress, dive into these 10 simple and satisfying Easter ham recipes. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create something so delicious.
Spicy Chipotle Glazed Ham
If you’re looking to jazz up your Easter table, a Spicy Chipotle Glazed Ham might just be the ticket. This recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet and spicy flavors, making it a great centerpiece that’s easy to prepare. With just a few ingredients, you can create a ham that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress your guests.
Making this dish is a breeze, even for busy cooks. The chipotle glaze provides a smoky kick that pairs beautifully with the savory ham, creating a dish that’s both exciting and comforting. Whether served with traditional sides or something a bit different, this ham will be a hit!
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2-3 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, minced chipotle peppers, cumin, black pepper, and Dijon mustard. Heat over medium until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Place the ham on a roasting rack in a large baking pan. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern.
- Brush half of the glaze over the surface of the ham, reserving the rest for basting.
- Bake the ham in the preheated oven for about 2-2.5 hours, basting with the reserved glaze every 30 minutes.
- Once heated through and caramelized, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cranberry Orange Glazed Ham
Cranberry Orange Glazed Ham is a delightful twist on a classic holiday centerpiece. The sweet-tart flavor of cranberries combined with the bright citrus notes of oranges creates a glaze that perfectly complements the savory richness of the ham. This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a great option for busy cooks during the Easter season.
The glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, giving the ham a glossy finish and an irresistible aroma that will have everyone gathering around the table. Whether it’s for a festive gathering or a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 lbs)
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup orange zest
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern and place it in a roasting pan.
- In a bowl, combine cranberry sauce, orange juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, black pepper, and orange zest. Mix well to create the glaze.
- Brush half of the glaze over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored areas.
- Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the glaze to caramelize.
- Once done, let the ham rest for about 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Herb-Crusted Ham with Garlic
Herb-Crusted Ham with Garlic is a flavorful dish that brings a burst of freshness to any Easter table. Featuring a savory herb blend, this recipe creates a delicious crust that enhances the natural taste of the ham while garlic adds a warm, aromatic touch. It’s simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks.
This recipe not only offers a delightful taste but also fills your home with an inviting aroma. Perfectly paired with seasonal sides, this ham is a centerpiece that will have your guests coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 lbs)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, rosemary, thyme, black pepper, salt, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
- Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This allows the herb mixture to penetrate the meat.
- Rub the herb mixture all over the scored ham, ensuring to get into every crevice.
- Place the ham on a roasting rack in a roasting pan and cover loosely with aluminum foil.
- Bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting occasionally with the pan juices, until heated through (internal temperature should reach 140°F or 60°C).
- Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes for a caramelized finish.
- Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Mustard Maple Glazed Ham
This Mustard Maple Glazed Ham is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors, making it a standout dish for any holiday table. With the rich taste of maple syrup complemented by the sharpness of mustard, it creates a glaze that caramelizes beautifully during baking.
What makes this recipe a winner for busy cooks is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can elevate a basic ham into a dish that’s sure to impress your guests. It’s an easy way to bring warmth and flavor to your Easter celebration!
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked ham (about 8-10 lbs)
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- Fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary) for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix maple syrup, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cloves until well combined.
- Score the Ham: Place the ham in a roasting pan and score the surface in a diamond pattern. This will help the glaze penetrate the meat.
- Apply the Glaze: Brush a generous amount of the glaze over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored cuts.
- Bake: Cover the ham with foil and bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the remaining glaze. Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes to allow it to caramelize.
- Serve: Once done, let the ham rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra touch.
Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Ham
This Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Ham is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. It’s an effortless dish to prepare, making it perfect for busy cooks who still want to impress their guests during the holidays.
The slow-cooking process ensures that the ham stays juicy and tender, while the honey mustard glaze adds a deliciously sticky finish. With minimal prep time, you can set it and forget it, allowing you to focus on other parts of your meal. This ham will surely be a centerpiece that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked ham (4-6 pounds)
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
Instructions
- Prepare the Ham: Place the ham in the slow cooker, cut side down. Score the surface in a diamond pattern.
- Mix the Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, and garlic powder until smooth.
- Coat the Ham: Pour the honey mustard glaze over the ham, making sure it gets into the scored cuts.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the ham is heated through and tender.
- Serve: Remove the ham from the slow cooker, slice, and drizzle with additional glaze if desired.
Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham
This Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham is a delightful twist on the traditional holiday centerpiece. The combination of sweet maple syrup and rich bourbon creates a sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, giving the ham a flavor that’s both sweet and slightly smoky. If you’re short on time, don’t worry! This recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal prep while still delivering impressive results.
The sweet and savory notes work harmoniously, making it a crowd-pleaser for any Easter gathering. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare this dish, allowing you to focus on spending quality time with loved ones instead of being stuck in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern and place it on a roasting pan.
- In a saucepan, combine maple syrup, bourbon, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper. Heat over medium until the sugar dissolves.
- Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get into the scored areas.
- Cover loosely with aluminum foil and bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting with the glaze every 30 minutes.
- In the last 30 minutes, remove the foil to allow the glaze to caramelize and turn a deep, rich color.
- Once done, remove from the oven, let it rest for 10-15 minutes, slice, and serve.
Apple Cider Glazed Ham
Apple Cider Glazed Ham is a delightful dish that brings together the savory flavor of ham with the sweet and tangy notes of apple cider. This recipe is not only tasty but also incredibly simple to prepare, making it a great choice for busy cooks during Easter celebrations.
The glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, infusing the ham with a rich, fruity flavor that pairs perfectly with the natural saltiness of the meat. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked spiral-cut ham (about 8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Place the ham in a roasting pan, cut side down.
- In a medium saucepan, combine apple cider, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Brush the glaze over the ham, making sure to get between the slices.
- Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting with the glaze every 30 minutes.
- During the last 30 minutes, uncover the ham and sprinkle with chopped pecans, if using, for added texture and flavor.
- Once heated through and caramelized, remove from the oven and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Classic Baked Ham with Pineapple
This Classic Baked Ham with Pineapple is a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors. The juicy ham pairs perfectly with the caramelized pineapple, making it a favorite for family gatherings and holidays. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also easy to prepare, allowing busy cooks to serve a stunning dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
The glaze, often made with brown sugar and mustard, creates a lovely crust on the ham as it bakes, enhancing the overall flavor. This recipe is perfect for Easter, bringing a festive touch to your table. Plus, leftovers are great for sandwiches or salads, making it a versatile choice for your holiday meal.
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked ham (5-7 pounds)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 can sliced pineapples (in juice)
- Maraschino cherries (optional)
- Whole cloves (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern and place it in a roasting pan.
- In a bowl, mix together brown sugar, honey, and mustard to create a glaze. Brush this mixture over the ham.
- Arrange the pineapple slices on top of the ham, securing them with toothpicks or cloves if desired. Add maraschino cherries in the center of the pineapple slices for decoration.
- Bake the ham, basting every 20 minutes with the glaze, until heated through (about 1.5 to 2 hours).
- Let the ham rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham
Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor to your Easter table. The sweet and tangy pineapple glaze perfectly complements the savory ham, creating a balance that everyone will love. This recipe is simple enough for busy cooks, allowing you to spend more time with family and less in the kitchen.
The caramelized brown sugar adds a rich depth, while the juicy pineapple rings make for a beautiful presentation. This glazed ham not only tastes delicious but also looks stunning as the centerpiece of your holiday meal. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this recipe is sure to impress without the fuss.
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked ham (5-7 pounds)
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- Pineapple rings (for garnish)
- Fresh rosemary (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar, pineapple juice, honey, cinnamon, and cloves to create your glaze.
- Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan. Score the surface in a diamond pattern and brush half of the glaze over the ham.
- Bake the ham for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the remaining glaze.
- During the last 30 minutes, arrange pineapple rings around the ham for added flavor and decoration.
- Once cooked through and caramelized, let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh rosemary before serving.
Honey Glazed Baked Ham
Honey glazed baked ham is a delightful dish that combines the savory flavors of ham with a sweet, sticky glaze. The honey adds a rich sweetness that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, resulting in a tender and juicy meal that is sure to please everyone at your table. It’s simple to make, making it a perfect option for busy cooks looking to impress their guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
This dish is not only visually appealing but also offers a perfect balance of flavors. The glaze enhances the natural taste of the ham, creating a comforting and satisfying main course for any Easter celebration. Plus, with minimal prep time and straightforward cooking steps, you can enjoy more time with your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan. Score the surface in a diamond pattern, about 1/4 inch deep.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, cinnamon, black pepper, and water. Stir until the mixture is smooth and the sugar dissolves.
- Brush half of the glaze over the surface of the ham, making sure to get it into the scored areas.
- Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C), basting with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the glaze to caramelize and deepen in color.
- Once done, let the ham rest for 15 minutes before carving and serving.
Conclusion
With these 10 deliciously simple Easter ham recipes, preparing a holiday-worthy meal no longer means spending all day in the kitchen. Whether you go with a traditional flavor or try a new twist, these easy recipes prove that great food doesn’t have to be complicated.
Designed for busy cooks, each recipe gives you the tools to create a flavorful, juicy ham that will be the star of your Easter dinner. Pair it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a holiday meal that’s as effortless as it is impressive.
This Easter, focus on what matters most—good food and quality time. Let these simple ham recipes bring comfort, ease, and a whole lot of flavor to your celebration.
