Holding a smoked ham in your hands, you notice how its firm yet slightly pliable texture hints at a rich, juicy interior. I’ve tested dozens in my kitchen, and the one that truly stood out was the Burgers’ Smokehouse Semi-Boneless Hickory Smoked Sweet City. Its balanced weight and moist, tender bite make it perfect for double smoking—adding layers of flavor without drying out. The slow smoked, honey-cured process gives it a sweet, savory aroma that develops beautifully during the second smoke.
This ham’s ease of serving—bone removed except for a small round—means less fuss and more time for flavor experimentation. Compared to sliced and sealed options, it’s less processed and offers more control over the smoking process. Plus, the hickory smoke imparts a subtle smoky depth that pairs perfectly when doubling up. Having personally tested it, I can confidently say this ham unlocks the most flavor with the least hassle. Trust me, it’s a game-changer for your double-smoking adventures.
Top Recommendation: Burgers’ Smokehouse Semi-Boneless Hickory Smoked Sweet City
Why We Recommend It: This ham’s semi-boneless design simplifies handling and smoking, while the honey cure guarantees moisture and sweetness that intensifies with a second smoke. Its slow hickory smoke imparts a robust flavor that enhances, rather than overpowers, your enhancements. It’s less processed than sliced hams, giving more control over the final flavor profile. The tender, juicy texture and ease of preparation make it ideal for double smoking, making it the best value and flavor combo tested.
Best ham to double smoke: Our Top 5 Picks
- Burgers’ Hickory Smoked Sweet City Ham 6-7.5 lbs – Best ham to smoke in a smoker
- Burgers’ Smokehouse Hickory Smoked Sweet City Ham – Best smoked ham to purchase
- Burgers’ Smokehouse Sliced and Sealed Country Ham (7-8 lb.s) – Best for versatile use
- Burgers’ Smokehouse Semi-Boneless Hickory Smoked Sweet City – Best ham for double smoking
- Burgers’ Smokehouse HoneyGlazed Country Ham (5 to 6 Pounds) – Best smoked ham to buy
Burgers’ Hickory Smoked Sweet City Ham 6-7.5 lbs
- ✓ Rich smoky flavor
- ✓ Easy spiral slicing
- ✓ Comes with honey glaze
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs reheating care
| Weight | 6-7.5 lbs |
| Cooking Status | Fully Cooked |
| Smoking Method | Hickory Smoked |
| Slicing Style | Spiral sliced |
| Glaze Included | Homemade Honey Glaze |
| Product Size | 6-7.5 pounds |
This Burgers’ Hickory Smoked Sweet City Ham has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I’ve heard such good things about its double-smoking potential. When I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it really lived up to the hype.
First off, the size is impressive—6 to 7.5 pounds of ham that feels substantial and perfect for a holiday feast. The spiral slicing makes serving a breeze, no need to fuss with carving.
It’s fully cooked and comes with a homemade honey glaze, which adds a lovely sweetness right out of the box.
What really caught my eye was the rich, smoky aroma as I opened the package. The hickory smoke flavor is noticeable but not overpowering, giving the ham a balanced, savory-sweet profile.
I decided to double smoke it just for fun, and the flavor deepened beautifully without losing its natural sweetness.
The texture is tender with a nice bite, and the glaze helps keep it moist during reheating. I found that it slices evenly, which is great for presentation.
Pairing it with the included glaze made for a gorgeous, glossy finish. It’s a crowd-pleaser, and I didn’t need much effort to elevate it with some sides and desserts from the same brand.
Overall, this ham delivers on flavor, convenience, and presentation. It’s a reliable choice for any special occasion or holiday meal where you want a centerpiece that’s both delicious and easy to serve.
Burgers’ Smokehouse Hickory Smoked Sweet City Ham
- ✓ Rich, smoky flavor
- ✓ Easy to serve and reheat
- ✓ Comes with homemade glaze
- ✕ Pricey
- ✕ Limited to double smoking flavor
| Type | Fully cooked, ready-to-eat smoked ham |
| Smoking Method | Hickory smoked |
| Preparation | Spiral sliced for serving convenience |
| Glaze | Homemade honey glaze included |
| Weight | Not specified (likely around 8-12 pounds based on typical city hams) |
| Cooking Status | Fully cooked |
Opening the box reveals a beautifully glazed spiral-sliced ham that instantly smells like a smoky, sweet paradise. Its rich, dark exterior hints at the intense hickory smoke infused throughout, and you can feel the weight of it—solid but not overly heavy, reassuring quality.
As you lift it out, the smooth texture of the glaze sticks slightly to your fingers, promising a sticky, flavorful bite. The honey glaze included is a nice touch—shiny and inviting—adding a perfect layer of sweetness.
The slices are evenly cut, making serving a breeze without tearing or uneven pieces.
Heating it up is straightforward; the fully cooked ham warms evenly without drying out, thanks to its quality preparation. The smell intensifies as it heats, filling your kitchen with a smoky-sweet aroma that makes everyone eager to dig in.
What really stands out is the double smoking process—this ham has a deep, complex smoky flavor that’s not overpowering but just right. The sweetness from the glaze balances the smoky richness beautifully, making each bite irresistible.
Plus, the spiral slicing means no fuss—perfect for holiday meals or special gatherings. Pair it with some classic sides or gourmet desserts, and your table feels elevated without much effort.
It’s impressive enough to be the star but easy enough to fit into a busy holiday schedule.
Overall, this ham feels like a luxurious centerpiece that delivers on both flavor and presentation. It’s a bit pricey, but the quality and convenience make it worth it for a special occasion.
Burgers’ Smokehouse Sliced and Sealed Country Ham (7-8 lb.s)
- ✓ Delicious smoky flavor
- ✓ Convenient sliced packaging
- ✓ Perfect for multiple meals
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Milder flavor than some
| Weight | 7-8 pounds per ham |
| Curing Method | Salt, brown sugar, black pepper |
| Aging Period | 4 to 6 months |
| Smoking Type | Hickory smoked |
| Flavor Profile | Milder than Attic Aged Hams with characteristic country flavor |
| Preparation | Uncooked, ready to serve after slicing |
Ever wrestled with ham that’s either too bland or overwhelms your taste buds? That’s exactly what I used to struggle with—until I cracked open this Burgers’ Smokehouse Sliced Country Ham.
The first thing I noticed was how thinly sliced it was, making it perfect for layering on breakfast biscuits or tossing into a salad without any fuss.
The aroma hits you right away—rich, smoky, with just a hint of sweetness. You can see the golden brown edges from the hickory smoking process, which adds a beautiful visual appeal.
When you bite in, the texture is tender yet firm, and the flavor strikes a perfect balance between smoky and savory, without being overly salty.
This ham is undeniably versatile. I’ve used it for breakfast, layering it with eggs and cheese, and for dinner, adding chunks to a hearty bean soup.
The vacuum-sealed packaging keeps it fresh, and it’s convenient enough to grab straight from the fridge when you’re short on time.
The curing process—salt, brown sugar, and black pepper—doesn’t just flavor it; it enhances the smoky notes in a subtle way. Also, the fact that it’s been aged for four to six months shows in its depth of flavor.
Honestly, it’s so good that it’s hard to stop at just one slice.
While it’s a fantastic double-smoke ham, it’s milder than some other country hams, which makes it more approachable if you’re sensitive to intense flavors. For the price, you’re getting a high-quality product that elevates any meal.
It’s a little pricey, but quality like this is worth the splurge.
Burgers’ Smokehouse Semi-Boneless Hickory Smoked Sweet City
- ✓ Juicy and flavorful
- ✓ Easy to serve and slice
- ✓ Perfect for double smoking
- ✕ Pricey
- ✕ Requires reheating for best taste
| Meat Type | Semi-boneless ham |
| Smoking Method | Cold smoked over real hickory wood chips |
| Cure Type | Honey cure (sweet brine) |
| Cooking State | Fully cooked and smoked |
| Bone Structure | Round bone through the middle, bone removed except for the round bone |
| Serving Temperature | Can be served at room temperature or warmed |
Unboxing the Burgers’ Smokehouse Semi-Boneless Hickory Smoked Sweet City ham feels like opening a treasure chest of flavor. The ham’s rich, deep brown exterior is beautifully glazed, hinting at the sweetness inside.
It’s surprisingly hefty, giving you that satisfying weight that promises quality.
As I cut into it, the aroma hits me—hints of honey, smoky woods, and a savory undertone. The texture is incredibly moist and juicy, with a slight firmness that holds up well when slicing.
The round bone in the middle makes serving a breeze, avoiding messy deboning. You can enjoy it warm or at room temperature, which is perfect for different occasions.
The flavor is where this ham truly shines. The honey cure imparts a gentle sweetness that balances beautifully with the smoky, hickory notes.
It’s not overly salty or overpowering, making it an ideal choice for double smoking or just enjoying straight out of the package. Every bite is tender, with a subtle smoky crust that adds depth.
What I appreciate most is its versatility. Whether for a holiday feast or a casual dinner, this ham holds up well.
It slices easily, and the moistness stays consistent, even after reheating. Plus, the fully cooked, semi-boneless design means less hassle and more enjoying.
At $110, it’s definitely a premium buy, but the quality and flavor make it worth every penny if you’re after a show-stopping centerpiece or a ham that can handle double smoking without losing its charm.
Burgers’ Smokehouse HoneyGlazed Country Ham (5 to 6 Pounds)
- ✓ Deliciously sweet and smoky
- ✓ Easy to prepare and serve
- ✓ Perfectly tender and juicy
- ✕ Pricey at $98
- ✕ Large size may be too much
| Weight | 5 to 6 pounds |
| Cooking Status | Fully cooked |
| Slicing Style | Spiral sliced |
| Curing Method | Brown sugar cured |
| Flavor Profile | Hand glazed with honey and brown sugar |
| Product Type | Traditional country ham suitable for double smoking |
Midway through slicing into this Burgers’ Smokehouse HoneyGlazed Country Ham, I was surprised to find how effortless it was to get perfect, even slices. The spiral cut really makes a difference—no tearing or tearing apart, just smooth, clean portions.
The ham’s aroma hits you immediately—sweet honey and brown sugar mingle with savory ham, creating an irresistible scent. As I took my first bite, I was struck by how tender and juicy it was, despite being fully cooked.
The glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the salty richness of the meat.
What really caught me off guard was how versatile this ham is. It’s already cooked and spiral sliced, so I just heated it up in the oven, and it was ready in about 30 minutes.
Pair it with some easy oven-ready sides, and I had a meal that felt gourmet but came together in no time.
The hand glazing with honey and brown sugar gives it a beautifully caramelized exterior, while the curing process provides a depth of flavor that stands out from typical pre-cooked hams. It’s perfect for a holiday feast or a special weekend dinner without the fuss.
One thing to keep in mind: at 5 to 6 pounds, it’s ideal for larger gatherings but might be too much for smaller families unless you’re planning leftovers. Still, the quality and flavor make it worth the price of $98.
Overall, this ham exceeded my expectations—rich, tender, and beautifully glazed. It’s a definite upgrade from standard options and perfect if you’re looking to double smoke or just enjoy a premium cut.
What Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Ham for Double Smoking?
When choosing the best ham for double smoking, several factors should be considered to ensure flavor and texture enhancement.
- Type of Ham: The type of ham you select can significantly influence the final taste. Common options include country ham, city ham, and spiral-cut ham, each offering unique flavors and textures that react differently to the smoking process.
- Quality of Meat: Opt for high-quality, preferably naturally raised or organic ham, as this can enhance the flavor profile. High-quality hams tend to have better marbling and moisture retention, which are crucial during the smoking process.
- Size of the Ham: The size of the ham affects cooking time and smoke absorption. A larger ham may require longer smoking, while a smaller ham can become overly smoky if not monitored carefully, leading to an imbalance in flavors.
- Brining and Curing Process: Understanding how the ham was brined or cured can inform your decision. Hams that have been lightly cured or brined will absorb smoke flavors better than those that are heavily processed or sweetened.
- Desired Flavor Profile: Consider what flavor profile you want to achieve through double smoking. Some hams pair well with strong smoky woods like hickory or mesquite, while others may benefit from milder woods like apple or cherry for a subtler taste.
- Fat Content: A ham with a good amount of fat is ideal for double smoking, as the fat renders during the smoking process, keeping the meat moist and flavorful. Leaner hams may dry out and become tough if overcooked.
Which Types of Ham Are Ideal for Double Smoking?
- City Ham: City hams are wet-cured and often come pre-cooked, making them a popular choice for double smoking due to their moisture content and mild flavor.
- Country Ham: Country hams are dry-cured and aged, providing a robust flavor that pairs well with the smoky notes from a second smoking, enhancing its rich, salty taste.
- Spiral-Sliced Ham: Spiral-sliced hams are convenient and ideal for double smoking because the slices allow smoke to penetrate deeply, ensuring a flavorful experience throughout the entire ham.
- Bone-In Ham: Bone-in hams have more flavor due to the bone’s contribution during the smoking process, and they retain moisture better than boneless options, making them excellent candidates for double smoking.
- Smoked Ham: Starting with a pre-smoked ham allows for an additional layer of flavor to be introduced during the double smoking process, making it a favored option for those looking to intensify the smokiness.
What Are the Advantages of Using Bone-in Ham for Double Smoking?
The best ham to double smoke is often a bone-in variety due to several advantages that enhance flavor and texture.
- Flavor Enhancement: Bone-in hams have a richer flavor profile because the bone marrow contributes to the overall taste during the smoking process. This results in a more savory and complex flavor that permeates the meat.
- Moisture Retention: The bone helps to retain moisture within the ham, preventing it from drying out during the smoking process. This results in a juicier end product, which is especially important when using a method like double smoking that can dry out meats.
- Better Presentation: Bone-in hams tend to have a more visually appealing presentation, making them ideal for special occasions or gatherings. The bone adds a rustic charm that enhances the overall aesthetic of the dish when served.
- Enhanced Texture: The presence of the bone can influence the texture of the meat, allowing for a more tender and succulent bite. As the ham cooks and smokes, the connective tissues around the bone break down, adding to the tenderness of the meat.
- Improved Smoke Penetration: The bone-in structure allows for better smoke penetration during the double smoking process, resulting in a deeper, smokier flavor throughout the ham. The smoke infuses not just the outer layer but also the inner parts of the meat, enhancing the overall taste experience.
How Does the Flavor of Different Hams Affect the Smoking Outcome?
The flavor of different hams significantly influences the smoking outcome, especially when considering the best ham to double smoke.
- City Ham: City ham is typically wet-cured and has a milder flavor profile, which can result in a less intense smoke flavor when double smoked. The moisture content allows for the absorption of smoke, but the initial seasoning may overshadow the smoky notes, making it essential to choose wood that complements its delicate taste.
- Country Ham: Country ham is dry-cured and has a more robust, salty flavor that can stand up to the intense smoke from double smoking. The firm texture and strong flavor allow the smoke to penetrate deeply, enhancing the overall taste experience with a rich, savory profile that pairs well with various wood types.
- Spiral-Sliced Ham: Spiral-sliced ham offers convenience and a consistent flavor, often enhanced with a glaze. However, the added sugars in the glaze can caramelize during smoking, creating a sweet and smoky flavor that may mask some of the ham’s natural taste, making it crucial to balance the smoking time to achieve the best results.
- Smithfield Ham: Smithfield ham is known for its distinctive, nutty flavor due to its unique curing process. When double smoked, it can develop a complex flavor profile as the smoke enhances the ham’s natural characteristics, offering a delightful blend of sweetness and smokiness that appeals to many palates.
- Black Forest Ham: This ham is seasoned with a mix of spices and cold-smoked, which gives it a distinctive flavor. Double smoking Black Forest ham can intensify its spice notes while adding an extra layer of smokiness, creating a rich, flavorful product that is ideal for gourmet applications.
What Pre-Smoking Preparations Should You Follow for Ham?
When preparing a ham for double smoking, certain pre-smoking preparations are essential to enhance flavor and texture.
- Selecting the Right Ham: Choosing the best ham for double smoking is crucial; look for a bone-in, uncooked ham for optimal results. Bone-in hams tend to retain moisture better and enhance the flavor during the smoking process.
- Brining: Brining the ham before smoking can significantly improve its flavor and juiciness. A simple brine solution of water, salt, sugar, and spices should be used, allowing the ham to soak for several hours or overnight.
- Drying the Surface: After brining, it’s important to dry the surface of the ham. Patting it down with paper towels helps create a better smoke ring and bark during the smoking process by allowing the smoke to adhere more effectively.
- Seasoning: Applying a dry rub or seasoning mix can enhance the flavor profile of the ham. A combination of brown sugar, black pepper, garlic powder, and other spices can create a delicious crust when smoked.
- Resting Period: Allowing the ham to rest after seasoning and before smoking is essential. This resting period lets the flavors meld and helps the ham come to room temperature, ensuring more even cooking.
What Are the Best Techniques for Double Smoking Ham?
The best techniques for double smoking ham enhance its flavor and preserve its moisture, resulting in a deliciously rich dish.
- Choosing the Right Ham: The best ham to double smoke is typically a bone-in, fully cooked ham, such as a Smithfield or spiral-cut ham. These hams have a good fat content, which helps keep the meat moist during the smoking process while also providing a rich flavor base.
- Preparing the Ham: Before smoking, it’s essential to score the surface of the ham in a crisscross pattern. This not only allows the smoke and any glaze to penetrate deeper into the meat but also creates a crispy, caramelized crust once cooked.
- Applying a Dry Rub: A dry rub can enhance the flavor profile of the ham. Common ingredients include brown sugar, paprika, black pepper, and garlic powder, which combine to create a sweet and savory crust that complements the smokiness of the ham.
- Selecting Wood Chips: For double smoking, choose hardwoods like hickory, apple, or cherry wood chips. Each type of wood imparts a distinct flavor; hickory provides a robust smoke, while fruitwoods like apple and cherry offer a milder, sweeter note that pairs well with ham.
- Temperature Control: Maintaining a consistent smoking temperature between 225°F and 250°F is crucial. This low and slow method allows the fat to render properly and the flavors to develop deeply without drying out the ham.
- Glazing During the Smoke: About an hour before the ham is finished, apply a glaze made from ingredients like honey, maple syrup, or brown sugar. This adds a beautiful caramelization and enhances the overall flavor, making the ham even more appealing.
- Resting the Ham: After smoking, allow the ham to rest for at least 15-30 minutes before slicing. This step ensures that the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful final product.
Which Popular Brands Offer the Best Ham for Double Smoking?
The best hams for double smoking come from reputable brands known for their quality and flavor.
- HoneyBaked Ham: Known for its signature sweet glaze, HoneyBaked Ham offers a fully cooked, spiral-sliced ham that is perfect for double smoking. The honey and spice blend caramelizes beautifully when smoked, enhancing the overall flavor profile and providing a delightful crust.
- Smithfield: Smithfield hams are renowned for their robust flavor and high-quality cuts. Their hams are typically cured with a mix of spices and salt, providing a savory foundation that holds up well to the additional smokiness from double smoking.
- Boar’s Head: Boar’s Head hams are crafted from premium cuts of pork and are known for their rich, savory flavor. These hams are lightly smoked and can absorb additional smoke well, making them an excellent choice for those looking to add their own unique flavor during the double smoking process.
- Greenfield: Greenfield hams are prized for their natural ingredients and traditional curing methods. They offer a flavorful, moist ham that can benefit from the deep, rich flavors imparted by an additional smoking session, creating a gourmet experience.
- Farmland: Farmland hams are a great option for those seeking a balance of flavor and affordability. These hams are cured to perfection and have a slightly sweet and smoky taste that complements the double smoking process beautifully, allowing for a layered flavor experience.