When it comes to festive meals and family gatherings, few dishes can match the warmth, flavor, and elegance of a perfectly baked ham. Topped with a luscious brown sugar glaze, this baked ham transforms into a centerpiece that is both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious. Whether it’s Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter, or a special Sunday dinner, this recipe guarantees a juicy, flavorful ham every time.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about preparing a baked ham with brown sugar glaze—from choosing the perfect ham and preparing the glaze to cooking tips, variations, and serving ideas.
Why Baked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze is a Holiday Favorite
Baked ham is a classic holiday dish, but the addition of a brown sugar glaze elevates it to a gourmet experience. The sweetness of the brown sugar caramelizes during baking, creating a shiny, flavorful crust that enhances the natural savory taste of the ham.
Here’s why it’s a favorite:
- Sweet and savory combination: The glaze balances the saltiness of the ham.
- Juicy and tender: Proper baking ensures the meat stays moist.
- Visually stunning: A caramelized glaze makes the ham look irresistible on the table.
- Easy to prepare: With a few simple ingredients, you can create a professional-quality dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Ham:
- 1 fully cooked ham (bone-in or boneless, 8–10 lbs recommended)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard or yellow mustard
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves (optional)
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice or orange juice (optional, for extra flavor)
- Whole cloves for studding (optional)
Kitchen Tools:
- Roasting pan with rack
- Basting brush
- Aluminum foil
- Meat thermometer
Step-by-Step Preparation
1: Preparing the Ham
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Remove the ham from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels.
- If your ham has a thick layer of fat, score it in a diamond pattern about 1/8 inch deep. This allows the glaze to penetrate and caramelize.
- Optional: Stud the ham with whole cloves at the intersections of the scoring.
2: Making the Brown Sugar Glaze
- In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, honey (or maple syrup), mustard, and optional cloves.
- Mix until smooth. Add pineapple or orange juice for a tangy twist.
- The glaze should have a pourable consistency but still coat the ham well.
3: Baking the Ham
- Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, flat side down.
- Cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
- Bake for approximately 15–18 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) for pre-cooked ham.
- Baste the ham with glaze every 20–30 minutes for a glossy, flavorful finish.
4: Finishing the Glaze
- About 20 minutes before the end of baking, remove the foil and brush the ham generously with the remaining glaze.
- Increase oven temperature to 400°F (204°C) to caramelize the glaze and create a golden crust.
5: Resting and Serving
- Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15–20 minutes.
- Slice and serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or cranberry sauce.
Tips for the Perfect Baked Ham
- Choose the right ham: Fully cooked hams save time and reduce the risk of overcooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: Avoid overcooking by monitoring the internal temperature.
- Glaze early and often: Repeated basting ensures a rich, caramelized coating.
- Add flavor variations: Mix brown sugar with mustard, bourbon, maple syrup, or pineapple juice for unique twists.
Variations and Flavor Enhancements
- Maple Brown Sugar Glaze: Replace honey with pure maple syrup for a richer, deeper sweetness.
- Spiced Ham: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to the glaze for a warm, holiday-inspired flavor.
- Citrus Glaze: Mix in fresh orange or lemon juice and zest for a tangy, bright glaze.
- Bourbon Brown Sugar Glaze: Add a splash of bourbon to the glaze for a subtle, smoky depth.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Holiday Spread: Serve with roasted potatoes, green beans, and cranberry sauce.
- Sandwiches: Leftover ham can make gourmet sandwiches with Swiss cheese and mustard.
- Salads: Cube the ham and toss with fresh greens, nuts, and vinaigrette for a hearty salad.
- Breakfast: Pair slices with eggs and pancakes for a special morning treat.
Storage and Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Cover baked ham tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Wrap slices in foil and store in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 275°F (135°C) until warmed through, basting occasionally with leftover glaze.
Why This Recipe Works Every Time
This baked ham recipe is foolproof because it balances flavor, moisture, and presentation:
- The sugar glaze adds a caramelized sweetness without overpowering the ham.
- Frequent basting ensures the meat stays juicy and flavorful.
- Optional spices, citrus, or bourbon allow you to customize flavors for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a spiral-cut ham?
A: Absolutely! Just reduce baking time slightly since spiral-cut hams are often thinner and cook faster.
Q: Can I prepare the glaze in advance?
A: Yes! Make it a day ahead and store in the fridge. Bring to room temperature before basting.
Q: Do I need to score the ham?
A: Scoring helps the glaze penetrate the meat and creates a beautiful pattern, but it’s optional.
Q: Can I use brown sugar substitutes?
A: Dark muscovado sugar or coconut sugar works well, adding unique flavors.
Conclusion
Baked ham with brown sugar glaze is more than just a meal—it’s a statement at the dinner table. Its sweet and savory profile, ease of preparation, and versatility make it perfect for holidays, celebrations, and family gatherings. By following these steps, tips, and variations, you’ll create a ham that’s juicy, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible.
