Appleton Farms spiral hams from Aldi are a holiday staple. These fully cooked, hickory-smoked hams are pre-sliced for easy serving. They’re perfect for Easter, Christmas, or family dinners.
Available in bone-in or boneless varieties, they come with a glaze packet. Typically weighing 7-10 pounds, they serve 10-14 people. Priced at $1.99-$3.99 per pound, they’re a budget-friendly choice.
This guide offers clear Appleton Farms spiral ham cooking instructions. From oven to air fryer, we’ll cover the best methods, plus tips for glazing and storing leftovers. Let’s make your ham a flavorful centerpiece.
Why Choose Appleton Farms Spiral Ham?
Appleton Farms hams are known for their smoky, tender flavor. The spiral cut makes slicing a breeze, saving time at the table. They’re fully cooked, so you’re just reheating.
These hams come in bone-in or boneless options. The bone-in version adds extra flavor, while boneless is easier to carve. A brown sugar or honey glaze packet enhances the taste.
Aldi’s hams are affordable and high-quality. They’re gluten-free and ideal for holiday meals or casual gatherings. Let’s explore the types available.
Types of Appleton Farms Spiral Hams
Appleton Farms offers two main spiral ham varieties. Each has unique features for different preferences. Here’s a quick overview.
Spiral Sliced Hickory Smoked Honey Ham: Bone-in, with a honey glaze packet. It has 150 calories per 3-ounce serving and 14 grams of protein. Perfect for a sweet, smoky flavor.
Spiral Cut Double Glazed Brown Sugar Ham: Bone-in or boneless, pre-glazed with a brown sugar packet. It offers 150 calories per serving with 890 mg sodium. Ideal for a richer, sweeter taste.
Boneless Spiral Sliced Ham: Hickory-smoked, fully cooked, with a brown sugar glaze. At $3.99 per pound, it’s tender and uniform, great for sandwiches.
Appleton Farms Spiral Ham Cooking Instructions
Preparing an Appleton Farms spiral ham is simple with the right steps. Below are the detailed Appleton Farms spiral ham cooking instructions for various methods. Follow these for a juicy, flavorful ham.
Oven Method for Bone-In Ham
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Remove all packaging and place the ham cut side down in a roasting pan with ½ cup of water. Cover tightly with foil to lock in moisture.
Bake for 10-12 minutes per pound until the internal temperature reaches 140°F. For a 9-pound ham, this takes about 90-108 minutes. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Apply the glaze packet 30 minutes before finishing. Remove foil, spread glaze evenly, and bake uncovered at 325°F for 15-20 minutes to caramelize.
Oven Method for Boneless Ham
Preheat oven to 250°F (121°C). Remove packaging and place the ham in a roasting pan, cut side down. Cover with foil and add ¼ cup of water or juice.
Heat for 12-15 minutes per pound until 140°F internally. A 4-pound ham takes about 48-60 minutes. Rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Brush glaze over the ham 20 minutes before finishing. Bake uncovered for 10-15 minutes at 325°F for a sticky finish. Slice along spiral cuts to serve.
Air Fryer Method
Preheat your air fryer to 325°F (163°C). Remove packaging and wrap the ham in foil to prevent drying. Place in the basket, ensuring it fits without overcrowding.
Cook for 10 minutes per pound, about 30 minutes for a 3-pound portion. Check for 140°F internally. Brush glaze on during the last 5 minutes and air fry uncovered.
Let the ham rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This method is great for smaller portions. Ensure even heating by flipping halfway.
Slow Cooker Method
Place the ham cut side down in a 6-quart slow cooker. Add ½ cup of water, apple juice, or cola for flavor. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours until 140°F internally.
For glazing, transfer to a baking dish and apply glaze. Broil at 425°F for 8-10 minutes until caramelized. Rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Ensure the ham fits the slow cooker. This method keeps the ham moist and frees up oven space. Slice along spiral cuts for easy serving.
Cooking Times and Temperatures Table
| Ham Type | Method | Time and Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Bone-In Spiral Ham | Oven | 10-12 min per lb at 325°F (140°F internal) |
| Boneless Spiral Ham | Oven | 12-15 min per lb at 250°F (140°F internal) |
| Spiral Ham (Portion) | Air Fryer | 10 min per lb at 325°F (140°F internal) |
Tips for Perfect Appleton Farms Spiral Ham
These tips ensure a moist, flavorful ham. They’re easy to follow and improve results. Keep them in mind during cooking.
- Thaw Properly: Thaw frozen hams in the fridge for 24-48 hours (4-6 hours per pound). For faster thawing, soak in cold water, changing every 30 minutes.
- Reduce Saltiness: Soak the ham in water for 10-15 minutes before cooking to reduce salt. Pat dry thoroughly before heating to avoid sogginess.
- Use a Thermometer: Check the internal temperature reaches 140°F in the thickest part. This ensures safety without overcooking.
- Rest Before Slicing: Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking. This redistributes juices for a tender, moist texture.
Glazing Your Spiral Ham
Glazing adds a sweet, sticky finish to your ham. Appleton Farms includes a glaze packet, but homemade options work too. Here’s how to glaze effectively.
Using the Packet: Mix the glaze with 4 teaspoons of warm water in a saucepan. Heat until boiling, stirring constantly. Brush over the ham 20-30 minutes before finishing, then bake uncovered.
Homemade Glaze: Combine ½ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup honey, and 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard. Simmer until thickened, then brush between slices. Bake at 325°F for 15 minutes.
Creative Touch: Add pineapple slices or cherries, secured with toothpicks, for a festive look. Brush with glaze and bake until golden for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Appleton Farms spiral hams pair well with many sides. They’re versatile for holiday or casual meals. Try these ideas for a complete menu.
- Classic Sides: Serve with scalloped potatoes, green beans, or cornbread for a traditional meal. The ham’s sweetness complements savory flavors.
- Holiday Feast: Pair with roasted carrots, mashed sweet potatoes, or a cranberry salad. Add dinner rolls for a festive touch.
- Leftover Ideas: Use slices in sandwiches with mustard or in omelets with cheese. Dice for soups or casseroles for easy meals.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Proper storage keeps your ham fresh. Follow these steps for best results. They’re simple and maintain flavor.
Store leftovers in airtight containers or wrap tightly in foil. Refrigerate for 3-5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date.
Reheat slices in a 275°F oven for 10-12 minutes, wrapped in foil. For the microwave, heat on medium for 1-2 minutes with a damp paper towel. Ensure 165°F internally for leftovers.
Why Appleton Farms Spiral Hams Shine
Appleton Farms spiral hams are affordable and flavorful. Their pre-sliced design simplifies serving, perfect for busy hosts. The hickory-smoked taste is a crowd-pleaser.
The included glaze packet makes preparation easy, but custom glazes add versatility. At $1.99-$3.99 per pound, they’re a great value. Leftovers are perfect for creative recipes.
With multiple cooking methods, these hams deliver consistent results. They elevate holidays or weeknight dinners effortlessly. Enjoy a tender, juicy ham with minimal work.
Summary
Appleton Farms spiral hams are a delicious, budget-friendly choice for any occasion. Using the Appleton Farms spiral ham cooking instructions, you can prepare them in the oven, air fryer, or slow cooker for a juicy, flavorful result. Thaw properly, check the internal temperature, and glaze for extra sweetness to perfect your ham. Pair with classic sides or use leftovers creatively, and store properly for later enjoyment. This guide ensures your Appleton Farms spiral ham is a tender, tasty centerpiece every time.
FAQ
How long does it take to cook an Appleton Farms spiral ham?
Cook bone-in hams at 325°F for 10-12 minutes per pound, boneless at 250°F for 12-15 minutes per pound. Aim for 140°F internally. Glazing adds 15-20 minutes.
Can I eat Appleton Farms spiral ham cold?
Yes, it’s fully cooked and safe to eat cold. Serve at room temperature for maximum flavor. Heating enhances texture and taste.
How do I glaze an Appleton Farms spiral ham?
Mix the glaze packet with 4 teaspoons water and heat until boiling. Brush over the ham 20-30 minutes before finishing. Bake uncovered at 325°F for 15 minutes.
How should I store leftover Appleton Farms spiral ham?
Wrap tightly in foil or store in airtight containers. Refrigerate for 3-5 days or freeze for 3 months. Reheat to 165°F before serving.
Can I reduce the saltiness of Appleton Farms spiral ham?
Soak in cold water for 10-15 minutes before cooking, then pat dry. Avoid using the glaze packet for less sweetness. Adjust cooking time if soaked.