Thu, 07 May 2026 13:24:33 +0000

Was It 4 Hours or 8 Hours? The Official Answer to Cook Spiral Ham Like a Chef! If you’ve ever stood in the kitchen staring at your spiral ham, wondering whether 4 hours or 8 hours will make the perfect roast, you’re not alone. The question—Was it 4 hours or 8 hours?—haunts home cooks and pros alike. But the truth is simple, and it comes from precise timing grounded in science: cooking spiral ham correctly takes 4 hours per pound for best moisture and flavor. So, when did 8 hours become standard? Let’s break down the official answer and what really matters when cooking spiral ham like a true chef. ### The Official Cooking Time: 4 Hours Per Pound The USDA and professional culinary guidelines confirm that spiral ham should be cooked at 4 hours per pound when cooking using a water bath (braising or simmering method), which is the golden rule for achieving tender, juicy results. This 4-hour standard ensures the ham reaches a safe internal temperature of 140°F (now commonly 165°F after cooling) while preserving its natural juices and tenderness.