Easy Juicy Instant Pot Spiral Ham with Glaze That Impresses Every Time

Sophia

Founder of Vintage cooks

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There’s something truly comforting about the juicy, tender bite of a perfectly glazed spiral ham, especially when it’s made effortless in the Instant Pot. One afternoon, craving a hearty meal without hours in the kitchen, I decided to put my pressure cooker to the test—and the result was a game changer. This Instant Pot Spiral Ham with Glaze combines sweet, tangy, and savory flavors with the convenience we all need on busy days or special family dinners. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe is your ticket to mouthwatering ham that’s impressively quick, beautifully moist, and utterly delicious. Get ready to fall in love with homemade, no-fuss comfort food all over again!

Why Choose Instant Pot Spiral Ham with Glaze?

Effortless Cooking: This recipe takes the guesswork out, letting your Instant Pot do the magic, saving you precious time. Juicy and Tender: The pressure cooker locks in moisture for a perfectly succulent ham every time. Flavor Packed: The glaze adds a delightful balance of sweet and tangy notes that elevate every bite. Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for family dinners or special occasions, it’s guaranteed to impress. Versatile: Pair it with any side, from mashed potatoes to roasted veggies, for a complete meal.

Instant Pot Spiral Ham with Glaze Ingredients

For the Spiral Ham

Spiral Ham (fully cooked) – Choose a pre-cooked ham to cut down on cooking time for this Instant Pot spiral ham with glaze.
Water or Broth – Adds moisture to the Instant Pot, ensuring your ham stays juicy and tender.
Cloves (optional) – Stud the ham with cloves for warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the glaze.

For the Glaze

Brown Sugar – Provides rich sweetness that caramelizes beautifully on the ham’s surface.
Honey or Maple Syrup – Adds natural sweetness and depth to balance the tangy notes.
Dijon Mustard – Offers a subtle sharpness that brightens the glaze’s flavor profile.
Apple Cider Vinegar or Orange Juice – Contributes the perfect tangy kick to elevate the glaze.
Ground Cinnamon or Nutmeg (optional) – Introduces warm spices for a cozy holiday twist.

How to Make Instant Pot Spiral Ham with Glaze

Prep the Ham: Pat dry the fully cooked spiral ham, stud optional cloves into the surface, and place the trivet inside the Instant Pot to keep it elevated and moist.
Add Ham to Pot: Pour water or broth into the base, then lower the ham cut-side down onto the trivet, ensuring it’s partially submerged to lock in moisture.
Pressure Cook: Seal the lid and set to high pressure for 5 minutes per pound (about 12 minutes total). Allow a 10-minute natural release, then perform a quick release.
For the Glaze:
Whisk Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth and glossy.
Glaze the Ham: Remove ham from pot, brush generously with warm glaze, then broil on the low rack for 3–5 minutes until caramelized and bubbly.
Rest and Serve: Transfer ham to a cutting board and rest for 5 minutes before slicing to let juices redistribute for tender, juicy bites.

Optional: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Instant Pot Spiral Ham with Glaze?

Creating a delightful meal around your perfectly glazed spiral ham can elevate any occasion to memorable heights.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich and buttery texture of mashed potatoes beautifully complements the sweetness of the ham glaze, making every bite a cozy delight. Picture your fork twirling through a creamy mound, ready to soak up those delicious ham juices.
Garlic Green Beans: Fresh, vibrant green beans sautéed with garlic add a crisp, herbaceous element that balances the meal, keeping it light and refreshing. Their natural crunch will make your palate sing amid the ham’s richness.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: These sweet and tender carrots echo the savory notes of the ham while adding a splash of color to your plate. Roasting them tender locks in flavor and texture, creating an irresistible combination.
Apple Cider Salad: A bright salad with mixed greens, walnuts, and a tangy apple cider vinaigrette brings a refreshing contrast to the hearty ham. Each bite fills your mouth with crunch and zest, perfectly cutting through the meal’s richness.
Cornbread Muffins: Soft and slightly sweet cornbread muffins are a delightful side that enhances your meal’s homestyle appeal. Serve them warm with a pat of butter for an unforgettable blend of flavors.
Sparkling Cider: As a drink pairing, sparkling cider adds a festive touch to your gathering, balancing the ham’s sweetness with bubbly refreshment. It’s a perfect non-alcoholic option that everyone can enjoy!
Pumpkin Cheesecake: For dessert, a slice of pumpkin cheesecake offers velvety smoothness and a spiced finish that rounds off your meal beautifully. Its comforting flavors will leave your family asking for seconds.

How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot Spiral Ham with Glaze

Fridge: Store leftover ham in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in foil for up to 3–4 days to keep the flavors fresh.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap slices of ham tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven at 325°F until warmed through, brushing with extra glaze for added flavor.

Serving Fresh: Enjoy your Instant Pot spiral ham with glaze straight from the fridge, or serve warm for the ultimate comforting experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Instant Pot Spiral Ham with Glaze preparations are a lifesaver for busy cooks! You can prepare the glaze (brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar) up to 3 days in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep the flavors fresh. Additionally, you can pat dry the ham and stud it with cloves 24 hours ahead, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap to maintain moisture. When it’s time to serve, simply add the ham to the Instant Pot with water or broth, cook according to the recipe, glaze it, and broil for that beautiful caramelized finish. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have a stress-free meal ready in no time, just as delicious as if you had made it fresh!

Variations & Substitutions for Instant Pot Spiral Ham with Glaze

Feel free to get creative and customize your ham for a delightful twist that suits your taste buds!

Maple Glaze: Swap out honey for pure maple syrup for a unique sweetness that pairs perfectly with the ham’s savory flavors. The warm notes of maple will warm your heart and give the dish an exciting twist.
Citrus Burst: Use fresh orange juice in place of apple cider vinegar for a bright, zesty accent. This citrus swap infuses a refreshing flavor that complements the richness of the ham beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the glaze for a subtle heat that contrasts wonderfully with the sweetness. A little heat can take your taste experience to a new level!
Herbaceous Touch: Mix in finely chopped rosemary or thyme into the glaze for an aromatic herbal note that elevates the overall flavor profile. This variation brings an earthy balance that’s simply delightful.
Honey Mustard: Substitute the Dijon mustard with a sweet honey mustard for a sweeter, creamier glaze option. It’s a comforting alternative that adds depth and richness to every slice of ham.
Pineapple Bliss: Incorporate crushed pineapple into the glaze for a touch of tropical sweetness. This fruit addition creates a sticky, luscious coating that makes each bite burst with flavor.
Smoky Flavor: For added depth, include smoked paprika in the glaze mixture. This swap provides a delightful smoky note that complements the sweetness and enhances the overall experience.
Vegan Version: Use a vegan alternative for the ham, such as a plant-based soy or pea protein ham, and swap honey for maple syrup in the glaze. This allows everyone at the table to enjoy a beloved dish!

Expert Tips for Instant Pot Spiral Ham with Glaze

Choose Pre-Cooked Ham: Opt for fully cooked spiral ham to ensure quick, safe cooking and avoid drying out during pressure cooking.
Use Broth for Flavor: Replace water with chicken or vegetable broth to infuse extra savory depth while keeping the ham moist.
Check Liquid Levels: Always add enough liquid to the Instant Pot; too little can cause a burn warning and uneven cooking of your spiral ham with glaze.
Glaze After Cooking: Apply glaze only after pressure cooking, then broil briefly to caramelize—this prevents burning and keeps the ham tender.
Natural Release Time: Let the pressure release naturally for at least 10 minutes to maintain the ham’s juiciness and texture.
Rest Before Slicing: Rest the ham for a few minutes after glazing to let juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful.

Instant Pot Spiral Ham with Glaze Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best spiral ham for this Instant Pot recipe?
Look for a fully cooked spiral ham that’s fresh and well-packaged. Avoid hams with dark spots all over or a sour smell. The more evenly sliced the spiral ham is, the easier it will cook and glaze beautifully.

What’s the best way to store leftover Instant Pot spiral ham with glaze?
I recommend storing leftover ham in an airtight container or wrapping it tightly with foil in your fridge. This keeps it fresh and juicy for up to 3 to 4 days—perfect for quick meals or sandwiches after your big family dinner.

Can I freeze the Instant Pot spiral ham with glaze for later?
Absolutely! Slice the ham first, then wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. Your ham will stay delicious for up to 2 months frozen. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat.

What if my ham turns out dry or tough after pressure cooking?
Don’t worry, it happens! Make sure you use a fully cooked spiral ham and add enough liquid (water or broth) to the pot—about 1 cup is ideal. Also, allow a natural pressure release of at least 10 minutes before quick releasing. These steps help retain moisture. Lastly, resting the ham after glazing lets juices redistribute for tender bites.

Is this glazed ham safe for pets or people with allergies?
This recipe includes ingredients like honey, mustard, and vinegar, which aren’t recommended for dogs or pets. For those with mustard allergies or sensitivities, you can substitute Dijon mustard with a mild mustard-free glaze option or simply adjust the glaze to suit your dietary needs. Always check ingredient labels carefully!