This 3-Ingredient Brown Sugar Glazed Ham is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners. With just three ingredients, you can create a beautiful, caramelized glaze that infuses every slice of the ham with sweetness and savory goodness. It’s a no-fuss recipe that delivers big flavor, making it ideal for both beginner and seasoned cooks.

Table of Contents

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cooking Notes
• Variations
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Conclusion

Ingredients

• 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (6-8 pounds)
• 1 1/2 cups brown sugar (light or dark)
• 1/2 cup pineapple juice (or orange juice)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Position the oven rack in the lower third of the oven.

Step 2: Prepare the Ham

1. Unwrap the ham and place it in a large roasting pan, flat side down. If the ham is not pre-sliced, score the surface in a diamond pattern, making shallow cuts about 1/2 inch deep. This helps the glaze soak into the meat.

Step 3: Make the Glaze

1. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and pineapple juice until well combined. The mixture should have a thick, paste-like consistency.

Step 4: Apply the Glaze

1. Rub the brown sugar glaze all over the surface of the ham, making sure to get it into the scored cuts.

Step 5: Bake the Ham

1. Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, basting with the pan juices every 30 minutes.
2. During the last 20-30 minutes of cooking, remove the foil to allow the glaze to caramelize and form a golden, sticky crust.

Step 6: Serve

1. Once the ham is heated through and the glaze is caramelized, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
2. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cooking Notes

• Ham Type: Use a fully cooked bone-in ham for the best flavor and texture. Spiral-cut hams work great for easy serving.
• Juice Substitute: Pineapple juice adds a nice sweetness, but you can use orange juice or even apple cider for a slightly different flavor.
• Basting: Basting the ham periodically helps keep it moist and ensures the glaze is evenly distributed.

Variations

Honey Brown Sugar Glaze

• Replace half of the pineapple juice with honey for an extra sweet and sticky glaze.

Spiced Brown Sugar Ham

• Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves to the brown sugar mixture for a warm, spiced flavor that complements the sweetness.

Maple Glazed Ham

• Substitute the pineapple juice with 1/4 cup of maple syrup for a rich, maple-flavored glaze that pairs perfectly with the ham.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use a Spiral-Cut Ham?

Yes! A spiral-cut ham works wonderfully in this recipe and allows the glaze to seep into all the slices, adding extra flavor throughout. Just be careful when handling the ham, as spiral-cut hams can be more delicate.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat slices in the oven, covered with foil, at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through, or use the leftovers in sandwiches, salads, or casseroles.

Can I Make This Ham in a Slow Cooker?

Yes, you can make this ham in a slow cooker. Place the ham in the slow cooker, pour the glaze over the top, and cook on low for 4-5 hours. Baste occasionally, and let it caramelize under the broiler for a few minutes before serving if desired.

This 3-Ingredient Brown Sugar Glazed Ham is a quick and easy way to bring a classic holiday dish to your table without any hassle. The sweet and savory glaze adds incredible flavor, while the simplicity of the recipe means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the meal with family and friends. Customize it with your favorite flavors, and enjoy this delicious, caramelized ham at your next gathering.

Happy cooking, and enjoy every slice of this perfectly glazed ham!