Christmas Ham Wrapped in Puff Pastry is a festive and decadent dish that takes your holiday ham to the next level. The savory, smoky ham is perfectly complemented by a golden, flaky puff pastry shell, creating a beautiful and indulgent centerpiece for your Christmas dinner. The layers of pastry provide a satisfying crunch, while the rich flavor of the ham stays juicy and tender inside. With a touch of mustard or cranberry sauce for an extra zing, this dish is a showstopper, sure to impress your guests and elevate your holiday table.
Ingredients:
- 1 fully cooked ham (about 3-4 pounds)
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard or whole-grain mustard
- 2 tablespoons cranberry sauce (optional, for additional flavor)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ham: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the ham dry with paper towels and brush it with a thin layer of Dijon mustard or whole-grain mustard for extra flavor. If you like, spread a thin layer of cranberry sauce on top of the mustard for a sweet and tangy kick.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to ensure it will fit the ham. The pastry should be large enough to wrap around the entire ham with a little overlap.
- Wrap the Ham: Place the ham in the center of the pastry. Fold the edges of the puff pastry over the ham, sealing the ham completely in the dough. If necessary, trim any excess pastry and save it for decoration. Press the seams gently to ensure the pastry stays sealed during baking.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the entire surface of the puff pastry with the beaten egg. This will give it a golden, glossy finish as it bakes.
- Bake the Ham: Place the wrapped ham on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp. You may need to cover the edges of the pastry with foil if it browns too quickly.
- Rest the Ham: Once the puff pastry is golden and flaky, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve: Slice the Christmas ham wrapped in puff pastry into thick slices, showcasing the beautiful golden crust. Garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme if desired. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
This Christmas Ham Wrapped in Puff Pastry is the perfect dish to serve for your holiday gatherings. The combination of tender ham, crispy pastry, and tangy mustard or cranberry sauce is a festive twist on the classic ham that will surely become a beloved tradition!
