A Brown Sugar Ham Glaze is the perfect way to add sweetness and depth of flavor to your holiday ham. This easy-to-make glaze uses brown sugar, honey, and a touch of mustard to create a glossy, caramelized coating that enhances the savory flavor of the ham. Whether you’re preparing a traditional Christmas or Easter dinner, this glaze will help create a centerpiece that’s both delicious and impressive.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Glaze
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon.
- Stir constantly until the brown sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
- Let the glaze simmer for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted and incorporated.
Step 2: Glaze the Ham
- Preheat your oven according to your ham’s cooking instructions. If your ham is already cooked, preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Place the ham in a roasting pan and use a sharp knife to score the surface in a diamond pattern.
- Brush a generous layer of the glaze over the ham, making sure to cover all sides.
- Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake according to the package instructions, basting with additional glaze every 20-30 minutes.
- During the final 15-20 minutes of baking, remove the foil and apply a final layer of glaze. Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) to caramelize the glaze, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Step 3: Serve
- Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
- Serve the ham warm, drizzled with extra glaze from the roasting pan.
Cooking Notes
- Scoring the Ham: Scoring the ham helps the glaze penetrate the surface and adds a beautiful presentation.
- Glaze Consistency: If the glaze becomes too thick, add a tablespoon of water or apple cider vinegar to thin it out slightly.
- Basting: Frequent basting helps to build a deep caramelized flavor on the ham’s surface, so don’t skip this step!
Variations
Spicy Brown Sugar Glaze
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze for a spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
Pineapple Brown Sugar Glaze
- Substitute the apple cider vinegar with 1/4 cup of pineapple juice for a tropical twist that pairs well with ham.
Maple Brown Sugar Glaze
- Replace the honey with 1/4 cup of pure maple syrup for a deeper, more complex sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Glaze Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the glaze up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and reheat it gently on the stovetop before using.
How Much Glaze Do I Need for a Ham?
This recipe makes enough glaze for a medium-sized ham (6-8 pounds). If you’re preparing a larger ham, consider doubling the glaze recipe to ensure full coverage.
Can I Use This Glaze on Other Meats?
Absolutely! This brown sugar glaze works wonderfully on pork tenderloin, chicken, or even roasted vegetables. Simply adjust the cooking times accordingly.
A Brown Sugar Ham Glaze is a classic and simple way to enhance the flavor of your holiday ham. The sweet and tangy combination of brown sugar, honey, mustard, and warm spices creates a beautiful caramelized finish that will impress your guests. Whether you’re making a ham for a holiday feast or a special occasion, this glaze will ensure your centerpiece is as flavorful as it is visually stunning.
Happy cooking, and enjoy every sweet, savory bite of your glazed ham!
