Transform your holiday ham into a show-stopping centerpiece with this delicious Brown Sugar Ham Glaze. This sweet and sticky glaze enhances the natural flavors of the ham, creating a beautiful caramelized crust that will have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for any festive occasion!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delightful glaze:

1 cup brown sugar (packed)
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (or orange juice)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
2 tablespoons water (if using cornstarch)

Instructions

Prepare the Glaze: In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, cloves (if using), and black pepper.
Heat the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture continuously until the sugar is dissolved and the glaze is smooth, about 5 minutes.
Thicken the Glaze (Optional): If you prefer a thicker glaze, mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Slowly add it to the saucepan while stirring, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the glaze thickens.
Glaze the Ham: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Brush a generous amount of the glaze over your pre-cooked ham, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Reserve some glaze for basting later.
Roast the Ham: Place the ham in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C). Roast according to the package instructions (typically about 15-18 minutes per pound), basting with the reserved glaze every 20-30 minutes.
Caramelize the Glaze: For the last 30 minutes of roasting, increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) to allow the glaze to caramelize and create a beautiful crust.
Rest and Serve: Once done, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute for a moist result.
Drizzle with Remaining Glaze: Serve the sliced ham drizzled with any remaining glaze for added flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per Serving: Approximately 150
Total Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 35g
Protein: 5g

Preparation Time

Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (depending on ham size)

How to Serve

Serve the glazed ham on a large platter, garnished with fresh herbs or fruit slices for a festive touch.
Pair with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a refreshing salad.
Consider serving with a selection of rolls or bread for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

Make It Ahead: The glaze can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat before using.
Storage: Store leftover glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Leftover Ideas: Use leftover ham in sandwiches, salads, or soups.

Recipe Variations

Pineapple Brown Sugar Glaze: Add crushed pineapple to the glaze for a tropical twist.
Spicy Brown Sugar Glaze: Incorporate a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a sweet and spicy kick.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing: The glaze can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
Storage: Keep leftover glazed ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Special Equipment

Medium saucepan
Basting brush
Roasting pan

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use this glaze on other meats?
A1: Absolutely! This glaze works wonderfully on pork loin, chicken, or turkey.

Q2: How do I know when the ham is fully cooked?
A2: The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C) for pre-cooked ham. Use a meat thermometer to check.

Q3: Can I make this glaze without honey?
A3: Yes, you can substitute maple syrup or agave syrup for a different flavor.

Q4: What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
A4: You can substitute yellow mustard, though it will alter the flavor slightly.

Q5: Can I make this glaze spicier?
A5: Yes! Add more ground cloves or experiment with other spices like smoked paprika for additional flavor.

This Brown Sugar Ham Glaze is sure to enhance your holiday meals and impress your guests with its delightful flavors. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious dish!