The holiday season has a special way of bringing people together, and there’s nothing quite like the centerpiece of a beautifully glazed ham to set the festive mood. Imagine walking into your home and being greeted by the irresistible aroma of a Brown Sugar Ham Glaze bubbling away in the oven, its caramelized exterior promising an explosion of flavor with every bite. This delicious glaze combines the soothing sweetness of brown sugar and honey with a hint of Dijon mustard and warm spices, transforming an ordinary ham into a show-stopping dish that will steal the spotlight at any gathering. With just a few simple steps, you can create a succulent centerpiece that not only satisfies your taste buds but also sparks joy and conversation around the dinner table. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this easy, yet impressive recipe that’s bound to become a holiday tradition!
Why choose Brown Sugar Ham Glaze?
Irresistible aroma: As this glaze simmers, it fills your kitchen with a mouthwatering scent that’s irresistible to everyone.
Perfect combination of flavors: The blend of sweetness from brown sugar and honey, complemented by a tangy touch of mustard, elevates your ham like never before.
Visual appeal: The glossy, caramelized exterior is an absolute showstopper, making your holiday table inviting and festive.
Time-saving: With a simple process and minimal ingredients, you can whip up a stunning glaze in no time before your guests arrive.
Versatility at its best: This glaze isn’t just for ham; consider using it on chicken or pork for a delightful twist!
Crowd-pleaser: Everyone loves a sweet-savory glaze, making this dish ideal for family gatherings and holiday celebrations. For more festive ideas, check out our collection of holiday recipes.
Brown Sugar Ham Glaze Ingredients
To create the perfect Brown Sugar Ham Glaze, gather these key ingredients and let the magic begin!
For the Glaze
- Bone-in Ham (4-6 kg / 8-12 lb) – A juicy protein source; make sure it’s ready-to-eat, not raw.
- Water (2 cups) – Keeps the ham moist while cooking; can also be substituted with dry white wine, orange juice, or apple juice.
- Brown Sugar (¾ cup) – Essential for caramelization and sweetness; this ingredient is what makes the glaze irresistible!
- Honey (¼ cup) – Adds a rich depth of sweetness; feel free to swap with maple syrup if desired.
- Dijon Mustard (¼ cup) – Balances the sweetness with a zesty tang; it’s great for flavor complexity, but can be omitted for a milder taste.
- Apple Cider Vinegar (¼ cup) – Imparts a perfect acidity to balance the flavors; white wine vinegar or champagne vinegar can work well as substitutes.
- Black Pepper (½ tsp) – Adds a subtle kick to the glaze, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
For the Spices
- Cinnamon (¾ tsp) and All Spice (½ tsp) – These warm spices provide holiday flair; while optional, they truly elevate the festive experience.
- Mustard Powder (¾ tsp) – Enriches the glaze with extra depth; feel free to skip if you prefer a simpler taste.
For Presentation (Optional)
- Ribbon and sprigs of rosemary – These make for an attractive and inviting display that’s perfect for your holiday table setting!
How to Make Brown Sugar Ham Glaze
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Prep the Ham: Take the ham out of the fridge and let it sit for about 1 hour before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly and retain moisture.
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to a cozy 160°C (320°F) for standard or 140°C (285°F) for fan-assisted cooking. It’s time to create that warm, festive atmosphere!
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Remove Rind: Carefully peel the rind from the ham, ensuring to retain the fat. Gently score the fat into a diamond pattern about 2.5 cm (1 inch) apart for beautiful presentation and better glaze absorption.
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Make Glaze: In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and your chosen spices. Simmer over medium heat, stirring until everything has dissolved and comes together beautifully.
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Braise Ham: Place the ham on a rack in a baking pan. Generously baste it with the glaze, ensuring that the cut face is well-covered to enhance the flavor.
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Bake: Roast the ham in the preheated oven for 1.5 hours. Remember to baste every 20 minutes until the glaze is caramelized and your ham reaches an internal temperature of 60°C (140°F).
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Rest and Glaze: After baking, let the ham rest for 15-30 minutes. This step is essential! Baste it once more with the tasty pan drippings before slicing for serving.
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Serve: Present your masterpiece with an additional sauce made from whisking pan drippings with a bit of water to your desired consistency for that extra touch!
Optional: Garnish with fresh rosemary and a festive ribbon for a lovely presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Brown Sugar Ham Glaze Variations
Get creative with this delicious glaze and customize it to your taste!
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Citrus Burst: Replace honey with fresh orange juice and zest for a bright, fruity twist that complements the ham beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 teaspoons of crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat that lingers nicely on the palate. Perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice!
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Maple Magic: Swap out the brown sugar for an equal amount of pure maple syrup for a rich, earthy sweetness that’s perfect for fall and winter feasts.
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Balsamic Depth: Use balsamic vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar to give the glaze a deeper, more complex flavor. This variation adds a lovely tangy touch!
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the glaze for an aromatic twist that elevates your holiday centerpiece.
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Nutty Flavor: Stir in ¼ cup of finely chopped pecans or walnuts during baking for extra crunch and a toasty aroma that envelops the ham.
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Mustard-Free: Omit the Dijon mustard completely for a simpler glaze that highlights the natural sweetness of the brown sugar and honey.
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Fruit Additions: Throw in a handful of dried or fresh fruits, like apricots or cranberries, for a pop of color and a sweet-tart contrast that brightens each bite.
Expert Tips for Brown Sugar Ham Glaze
- Basting Frequency: Baste every 20 minutes for optimal caramelization and glaze coverage; this ensures your Brown Sugar Ham stays moist and flavorful.
- Slicing Technique: Use a sharp knife for slicing the ham, cutting along the natural seams for cleaner, beautiful slices that maintain their shape.
- Scoring the Fat: Make deep cuts in a diamond pattern to allow the glaze to penetrate, enhancing flavor and creating an appealing exterior.
- Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting phase! Letting the ham rest allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite succulent and tender.
- Avoid Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your ham reaches an internal temperature of 60°C (140°F) for perfect doneness without drying out.
Make Ahead Options
These Brown Sugar Ham Glaze preparations are a game-changer for busy home cooks! You can prepare the glaze itself up to 3 days in advance by combining the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and spices in a saucepan, bringing it to a simmer, and then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The ham can be scored and left uncovered in the fridge overnight for up to 24 hours before cooking, which helps the glaze adhere better. When you’re ready to bake, simply baste the ham with the chilled glaze and follow the cooking instructions as usual, enjoying a delicious centerpiece that feels effortlessly gourmet.
How to Store and Freeze Brown Sugar Ham
Fridge: Store leftover Brown Sugar Ham in an airtight container for up to 3 days to retain its flavorful glaze and moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. It can last up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 20-30 minutes, basting with pan drippings to prevent dryness.
Serving Tip: For best taste and texture, serve the ham warm, letting it reach room temperature after reheating for a delightful dining experience.
What to Serve with Brown Sugar Ham Glaze?
The holiday table is a canvas waiting to be filled with vibrant flavors and textures that perfectly complement your delicious ham.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich and buttery texture is a perfect match for the sweet-savory glaze, balancing each bite with comfort.
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Green Bean Almondine: The crunch of almonds and the freshness of green beans add a delightful contrast to the ham’s stickiness and savory notes.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness enhances the overall flavor profile, bringing a pop of color and nutritious goodness to your festive plate.
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Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: This hearty side brings caramelized edges and a slightly nutty flavor, offering depth against the sweet glaze.
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Cranberry Sauce: A tart and fruity counterpoint to the ham’s sweetness, adding a fresh brightness that balances the meal perfectly.
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Warm Dinner Rolls: Soft and pillowy, they are ideal for mopping up the luscious glaze, creating a comforting experience with every bite.
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Mulled Wine: The warm spices and fruitiness elevate the dining experience, encouraging a cozy atmosphere while enhancing your holiday feast.
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Pumpkin Pie: For dessert, this classic choice rounds off your meal with a sweet, spiced finish that’s simply irresistible during the festive season.
Brown Sugar Ham Glaze Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ham for my Brown Sugar Ham Glaze?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose a bone-in ham that weighs between 4-6 kg (8-12 lb). Look for ham that is labeled as “ready-to-eat,” which means it has already been cooked and is safe to eat without further preparation. A juicy, well-marbled ham will ensure lots of flavor and moisture during cooking.
How should I store leftover Brown Sugar Ham?
Very simply! Store any leftover ham in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep it moist, you can cover the ham with plastic wrap before placing it in the container. This method locks in flavors and prevents the ham from drying out.
Can I freeze Brown Sugar Ham, and how?
Of course! To freeze your Brown Sugar Ham, first slice it into individual portions for convenience. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Properly wrapped, it can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 20-30 minutes.
What if my glaze isn’t thickening as expected?
If you find your glaze isn’t thickening as you’d like, don’t stress! Continue to simmer it over medium heat, stirring frequently until it reduces and thickens. If you want a quicker fix, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water to make a slurry, then add it to the pan. Let it simmer for a few more minutes to reach your desired consistency.
Can my pets eat the Brown Sugar Ham?
It’s best to keep your beloved pets away from the Brown Sugar Ham. The glaze contains ingredients like honey and spices that can upset their stomachs. If they do get a taste, be sure to monitor them closely for any sign of discomfort. Always best to stick to treats made specifically for them!
Irresistible Brown Sugar Ham Glaze for Your Christmas Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prep the Ham: Take the ham out of the fridge and let it sit for about 1 hour before cooking.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 160°C (320°F) or 140°C (285°F) for fan-assisted cooking.
- Remove Rind: Peel the rind from the ham and gently score the fat into a diamond pattern.
- Make Glaze: Combine brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and spices in a saucepan. Simmer until dissolved.
- Braise Ham: Place ham on a rack in a baking pan and baste generously with glaze.
- Bake: Roast the ham for 1.5 hours, basting every 20 minutes until caramelized.
- Rest and Glaze: Let the ham rest for 15-30 minutes, baste again with pan drippings.
- Serve: Present with a sauce made from whisked pan drippings and water.