Weight Watchers Glazed Turkey Ham: A Healthy & Flavorful Holiday Centerpiece

The holiday season is synonymous with cherished traditions, and for many, a beautiful glazed ham takes center stage at festive dinners. This Weight Watchers version reimagines that quintessential holiday classic, allowing you to indulge in all the savory, sweet flavors you love without derailing your health and wellness journey. By using lean, 92% fat-free turkey ham and a naturally sweetened peach glaze, this recipe delivers an impressive dish that’s both delicious and mindful of your dietary goals. Each generous serving is just 3 Weight Watchers Points, making it an ideal choice for a joyful, guilt-free celebration.

Our unique glaze is crafted from dried peaches, combined with tangy mustard, a touch of Splenda for sweetness, and vinegar, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile that beautifully complements the savory turkey ham. The aromatic cloves and elegant diagonal cuts not only enhance the visual appeal but also infuse the ham with incredible flavor. Get ready to impress your guests and treat yourself to a memorable meal that feels decadent but fits seamlessly into your healthy lifestyle. For more holiday party ideas, explore our collection of appetizers and dinner recipes.

Why Choose This Weight Watchers Glazed Turkey Ham?

For many, the holidays present a challenge: how to enjoy festive feasts without compromising personal health goals. This healthier glazed turkey ham offers the perfect solution, allowing you to embrace holiday traditions with confidence and joy. Here’s why this recipe should be a staple on your holiday table:

• Guilt-Free Indulgence: With just 3 Weight Watchers Points per serving, you can savor every bite of this succulent ham without worrying about derailing your weight loss efforts. It’s a truly satisfying meal that fits perfectly into a balanced eating plan. You can view the full recipe on the WW Apphere (WW login required).
• Rich, Balanced Flavors: The naturally sweetened peach glaze offers a unique twist, providing a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes. Paired with aromatic cloves, it creates a complex flavor profile that rivals any traditional ham.
• Beautiful Presentation: The diamond scoring and clove studded surface create a visually stunning centerpiece for any holiday gathering. It looks like a masterpiece, but it’s surprisingly simple to prepare.
• Easy to Prepare: Despite its impressive appearance, this glazed turkey ham is straightforward to make, requiring minimal active prep time and mostly hands-off baking. This means less stress in the kitchen and more time enjoying with loved ones.
• A Healthier Alternative: By opting for 92% fat-free turkey ham, you significantly reduce the fat and calorie content compared to traditional pork hams, making it a smarter choice for a lighter holiday meal.

I make this glazed ham every year because it brings me the same joy and festive feeling as the commercial hams I admired in my childhood, but with the added peace of mind that I’m nourishing my body well. It’s truly comforting to know I can enjoy my holiday favorites while staying true to my wellness journey.

Recipe Overview at a Glance

Here’s a quick summary of what you can expect:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Servings: 14
• Serving Size: Approximately 1/8 of the ham (roughly 103g per serving)
• Weight Watchers Points Per Serving: 3 WW Points

Ingredients for Your Perfect Glazed Turkey Ham

For the Ham

• 1 whole turkey ham (2-3 lbs/900–1350 g): The star of our dish! Opt for a pre-cooked, 92% fat-free turkey ham for the best results and lowest Weight Watchers points. Turkey ham provides a savory base with significantly less fat than traditional ham.
• 2 tablespoons whole cloves: These aromatic spices are crucial for both flavor and aesthetic appeal. They infuse the ham with a warm, festive essence.

For the Sweet & Tangy Peach Glaze

• 1 cup dried peach slices (150 g): The foundation of our naturally sweetened glaze. Dried peaches offer a concentrated sweetness and a lovely fruity flavor that pairs wonderfully with savory ham.
• 2 tablespoons Splenda (or another sugar substitute): To enhance the sweetness of the peaches without adding extra sugar or calories, keeping the recipe Weight Watchers friendly.
• 1/4 cup vinegar (60 ml): Adds a crucial tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the peaches, balancing the glaze and brightening the overall flavor. Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar works well.
• 1 cup water or broth (120 ml): Used to rehydrate the peaches and create the perfect consistency for the glaze. Broth can add an extra layer of savory depth.

For an Optional Festive Shine

• 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin powder (7 g.): This is the secret ingredient for that classic, glossy holiday ham finish that makes it look straight out of a magazine.
• 1 tablespoon Splenda: A small amount to add a hint of sweetness to the glossy finish, enhancing the glaze below.
• 1/4 cup hot water (60 ml): To dissolve the gelatin and create a smooth, brushable mixture for the shiny coating.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Glazing and Baking

Follow these simple steps to create a show-stopping Weight Watchers Glazed Turkey Ham that will be the highlight of your holiday meal.

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). This lower temperature allows the ham to cook gently and the glaze to caramelize beautifully without burning.
2. Score the Ham: Place the turkey ham on a clean cutting board and pat it thoroughly dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, carefully make diagonal cuts across the surface of the ham, about 1/2 inch deep and spaced about 1 inch apart. Then, make diagonal cuts in the opposite direction to create an attractive diamond pattern. This scoring isn’t just for looks; it helps the glaze penetrate deeper into the meat for maximum flavor.
3. Insert the Cloves: At each intersection point of the diamond cuts, insert a whole clove. This step adds a beautiful aroma and a warm, spicy flavor that is characteristic of traditional glazed hams.
4. Prepare the Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the dried peach slices, Splenda, vinegar, and water or broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure the peaches soften evenly. Allow it to cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the peach slices are tender and easily mashable.
5. Blend the Glaze: Once the peaches are softened, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool slightly for a few minutes. Carefully pour the mixture into a blender or use an immersion blender to puree it until it’s perfectly smooth. This creamy, fruit-infused mixture will form the delicious glaze for your ham.
6. Apply the First Layer of Glaze: Place the scored, clove-studded ham on a baking tray that has been lined with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Using a pastry brush or a spoon, generously apply an even layer of the peach glaze all over the ham, making sure to work it into the scored cuts. This initial layer begins the flavor infusion.
7. Bake the Ham: Carefully place the glazed ham in your preheated oven and bake at 325°F (160°C) for 1 hour. It’s crucial to baste regularly: every 20 minutes, remove the ham from the oven and apply another generous layer of the peach glaze. This continuous basting keeps the ham moist, builds layers of flavor, and helps achieve that desirable caramelized exterior.
8. Prepare the Shiny Coating (Optional): For that extra holiday sparkle, prepare an optional shiny coating. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of unflavored gelatin powder, 1 tablespoon of Splenda, and 1/4 cup of hot water. Stir continuously until the gelatin is completely dissolved and the mixture is clear.
9. Brush on the Shiny Coating: Once the ham has finished baking and has achieved a beautiful golden-brown color, remove it from the oven. Let it cool for just a few minutes. Then, using a clean pastry brush, evenly brush the gelatin mixture over the entire surface of the ham. This will create a stunning, glossy finish that makes your ham truly stand out.
10. Slice and Serve: Before carving, remember to carefully remove all the whole cloves from the ham’s surface. Then, slice the ham into thin, even portions and serve warm with your favorite holiday sides. Enjoy!

Creative Variations and Smart Substitutions

While our peach glaze is incredibly delicious, this recipe is also versatile, allowing you to experiment with different fruit flavors to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some delightful variations for your glazed ham:

• Prunes for a Deeper Sweetness: Substitute dried peach slices with prunes. These dark, rich fruits will impart a deeper, more caramelized sweetness to the glaze, creating a sophisticated flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the savory turkey ham and the tang of the mustard.
• Raisins for Fruity Brightness: For a classic and bright fruity sweetness, use raisins in place of dried peaches. Soak them in warm water for about 15-20 minutes before combining them with the other glaze ingredients. This will help them soften and blend smoothly into a luscious glaze.
• Berry Jam for a Tart & Vibrant Glaze: If you prefer a slightly tart and more intensely fruity glaze, a sugar-free berry jam (like strawberry or raspberry) can be a fantastic substitute for the dried fruit. Use approximately 1/2 to 3/4 cup of sugar-free jam, adjusting for sweetness as needed, to achieve a vibrant color and a delightful hint of acidity.
• Spiced Apple Glaze: Consider using dried apple slices, cooked down with a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice for a warming, autumnal flavor.
• Apricot Glaze: Dried apricots are another excellent choice, offering a slightly tangier and brighter flavor profile than peaches. Prepare them in the same way as the peaches.

Feel free to experiment with different vinegars as well, such as balsamic for a richer, sweeter note, or rice vinegar for a lighter, tangier profile. The key is to balance the sweet and savory elements to your liking.

Expert Tips for the Best Glazed Turkey Ham

Achieving the perfect glazed turkey ham is simple with these expert tips:

• Choose Low-Fat, Smoked Turkey Ham Wisely: When selecting your turkey ham, look for labels that clearly state “92% fat-free” or similar low-fat percentages to ensure it aligns with Weight Watchers guidelines. Pre-smoked turkey ham is ideal as it adds a depth of flavor without extra effort. Check the ingredient list for unnecessary sugars or high-sodium content, opting for the purest option available.
• Score the Surface for Extra Flavor & Presentation: The diamond pattern scoring is more than just decorative; it’s a crucial step for flavor absorption. Make sure your cuts are about 1/2 inch deep and evenly spaced, approximately 1 inch apart. This creates pockets that allow the sweet and tangy glaze to seep deep into the meat, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful. A sharp knife is essential for clean, precise cuts.
• Cook Low and Slow for Tenderness: The secret to a tender, well-glazed ham that doesn’t dry out is cooking it at a lower temperature (325°F/160°C) for an extended period. This gentle heat allows the ham to warm through evenly, while giving the glaze ample time to caramelize gradually without scorching, resulting in a perfectly cooked and beautifully coated ham.
• Baste Regularly for Moisture and Shine: Basting the ham every 20 minutes with fresh layers of glaze is vital. Each application helps to keep the turkey ham incredibly moist and prevents it from drying out in the oven. More importantly, it builds up those magnificent layers of caramelized glaze, contributing to a rich flavor and that iconic glossy finish that screams “holiday feast.” Don’t skip this step!
• Remove the Cloves Before Serving: While whole cloves are fantastic for infusing the ham with a warm, festive aroma and flavor during the cooking process, their strong, concentrated taste can be overwhelming if eaten directly. Always remember to carefully remove all cloves from the surface of the ham before you slice and serve it to your guests, ensuring a pleasant eating experience.

What to Serve with Your Glazed Turkey Ham

This Weight Watchers Glazed Turkey Ham pairs beautifully with a variety of healthy and delicious side dishes that will complete your holiday meal:

• Roasted Asparagus or Green Beans: Simple, elegant, and low in points. Toss with a little olive oil spray, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender-crisp.
• Mashed Cauliflower: A fantastic low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes. Creamy and savory, it complements the ham perfectly.
• Sweet Potato Casserole (Lightened Up): Prepare a healthier version with less added sugar and perhaps a pecan-oat topping instead of marshmallows.
• Whole Grain Rolls: A small serving of whole grain rolls or cornbread (check points) can be a lovely addition for soaking up any extra glaze.
• Apple Cranberry Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with mixed greens, apples, dried cranberries, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
• Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Roasted or sautéed Brussels sprouts, especially with a touch of balsamic, offer a slight bitterness that cuts through the sweetness of the ham.

Storing and Reheating Leftover Turkey Ham

One of the best parts about a holiday ham is the delicious leftovers! Here’s how to properly store and reheat your Weight Watchers Glazed Turkey Ham to enjoy it for days to come:

• Refrigeration: Allow the ham to cool completely before storing. Wrap leftover ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, slice the ham and place portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. You can also freeze it whole if it fits. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw frozen ham in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating in the Oven: To reheat, place slices or a whole portion of ham in a baking dish with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying. Cover tightly with foil and heat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through, usually 15-20 minutes for slices and longer for larger pieces.
• Reheating in the Microwave: For individual servings, cover ham slices with a damp paper towel and microwave on medium heat in 30-second intervals until hot. Be careful not to overcook, as turkey ham can dry out easily.
• Enjoying Cold: Leftover turkey ham is also delicious cold in sandwiches, salads, or wraps for a quick and healthy meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Is turkey ham as flavorful as traditional ham?

  While turkey ham has a milder flavor than traditional pork ham, our robust peach and clove glaze ensures it’s packed with flavor. Many find the leaner profile of turkey ham refreshing and appreciate its ability to truly shine with a delicious glaze.

• Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

  Absolutely! The peach glaze can be prepared up to 2-3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to use, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat to make it brushable again.

• How do I know when the turkey ham is fully cooked?

  Since most turkey hams are pre-cooked, you are essentially reheating and glazing it. The goal is to heat it through to an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone, to ensure it’s properly warmed.

• Can I use fresh peaches instead of dried?

  While dried peaches offer a concentrated sweetness and texture ideal for this glaze, you could experiment with fresh peaches. You would likely need more fresh peaches (e.g., 2 cups chopped) and may need to reduce the amount of added water/broth, cooking them longer until very soft before blending.