A beautifully glazed ham is the heart of any special gathering, and this Brown Sugar Glazed Ham is a timeless classic. Coated in a rich, caramelized brown sugar glaze with hints of warm spices and tangy Dijon, this stunning centerpiece is perfect for Easter, Christmas, or any celebration. Whether you’re serving a holiday crowd or planning an elegant Sunday dinner, this effortless recipe guarantees a tender, flavorful ham with a glistening golden finish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Perfectly Sweet & Savory – A luscious brown sugar glaze balances the saltiness of the ham.
Caramelized & Glazed to Perfection – A glossy, golden crust locks in moisture and enhances every bite.
Foolproof & Effortless – Simple ingredients come together for an impressive yet easy recipe.
Ideal for Gatherings – A show-stopping main dish that serves a crowd with minimal effort.
Total Time & Servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 10-12
Ingredients
- 1 (8-10 lb) bone-in ham, fully cooked
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ham
Preheat the oven to 325°F. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, cut side down. Score the surface in a diamond pattern for better glaze absorption. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 1 hour.
Step 2: Make the Brown Sugar Glaze
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, cloves, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
Step 3: Glaze & Bake
Remove the ham from the oven and brush generously with the glaze. Return to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 45 minutes, basting with more glaze every 15 minutes, until caramelized and glossy.
Step 4: Rest & Serve
Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with extra glaze drizzled over the top.
Expert Tips for the Best Glazed Ham
Use a Bone-In Ham – Provides the best flavor and stays incredibly juicy.
Score the Surface – This helps the glaze seep into the ham for maximum flavor.
Baste Frequently – Regular basting creates a thick, caramelized coating.
Pair It With
Scalloped Potatoes – Creamy, cheesy layers that complement the sweet glaze.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts – A slightly bitter contrast that balances the richness.
Homemade Dinner Rolls – Soft, warm rolls perfect for soaking up extra glaze.
Storing & Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Warm slices in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Final Thoughts
This Brown Sugar Glazed Ham is the ultimate centerpiece for any holiday table—perfectly sweet, savory, and caramelized to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or savoring a special meal with loved ones, this elegant yet effortless dish promises a truly unforgettable dining experience.
