Sweet and Savory: How to Make the Perfect Brown Sugar Glazed Ham
When it comes to holiday meals or special gatherings, nothing impresses like a beautifully glazed ham. One of the most beloved versions is a Brown Sugar Glazed Ham — a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and slightly smoky flavors. With the right technique and ingredients, you can create a stunning centerpiece that's as delicious as it is beautiful.
Why Choose a Brown Sugar Glaze?
Brown sugar glaze adds a rich sweetness that enhances the natural flavor of the ham. Combined with a touch of spice, a bit of tanginess, and a beautiful caramelized finish, it creates layers of flavor that make every bite irresistible. It's simple, accessible, and doesn't require any fancy equipment.
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Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Ham:
- 1 fully cooked, bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)
- Whole cloves (optional, for studding)
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ham
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place a rack inside a large roasting pan and set the ham on the rack. If desired, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern using a sharp knife. Stud the intersections with whole cloves for extra flavor and a festive look.
2. Make the Brown Sugar Glaze
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, orange juice, cinnamon, ground cloves, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring frequently until smooth and slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
3. Glaze and Bake
Brush a generous layer of glaze over the ham. Cover the ham loosely with foil to prevent it from drying out and bake for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, depending on the size.
Baste with additional glaze every 30 minutes to build up layers of flavor and a sticky, caramelized surface.
4. Finish Without Foil
For the last 20-30 minutes of baking, remove the foil to allow the glaze to caramelize and the surface to brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning — you want a deep, golden sheen.
The ham is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
5. Rest and Slice
Let the ham rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. This step allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
Tips for the Best Glazed Ham
- Use bone-in ham for more flavor and a juicier result.
- Score the ham to allow the glaze to penetrate deeper.
- Don’t rush the glazing process. Frequent basting is key to building a rich, sticky exterior.
- Keep an eye during the final bake to prevent the sugars from burning.
- Use a roasting rack to keep the ham elevated, allowing heat to circulate evenly.
Variations You Can Try
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the glaze.
- Maple Twist: Replace the honey with maple syrup for a deeper, more earthy sweetness.
- Pineapple Touch: Mix in some crushed pineapple for a tropical flavor.
- Whiskey Glaze: Add a splash of bourbon or whiskey to the glaze for a warm, complex depth.
Experimenting with different flavors lets you tailor your ham to your guests' preferences or your own taste.
Serving Suggestions
A Brown Sugar Glazed Ham pairs beautifully with classic sides like:
- Scalloped potatoes
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Buttery dinner rolls
- Fresh green beans
- Sweet potato casserole
Leftovers are just as exciting — think ham sandwiches, breakfast scrambles, or a hearty ham and bean soup.
Why This Recipe Works
Simplicity and flavor layering make this method reliable and impressive. The brown sugar forms a luscious crust, while the combination of mustard, vinegar, and juice balances the sweetness with acidity and zest.
Cooking low and slow ensures the ham stays moist. Frequent glazing allows you to build that shiny, sticky coat that everyone loves.
Moreover, it's a forgiving recipe. If you follow the basic timing and temperature guidelines, your ham will come out perfectly every time.
Making a perfect Brown Sugar Glazed Ham doesn’t have to be complicated. With a handful of ingredients and a little patience, you can create a centerpiece that’s both stunning and delicious.
Whether it's for Easter, Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any special occasion, this ham recipe is a sure crowd-pleaser. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, fills the room with incredible aromas, and leaves everyone looking forward to seconds.
Take your time, baste generously, and enjoy the rewards of a beautifully crafted ham that tastes every bit as amazing as it looks.
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Source: Cooking With Tammy
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