Brown Sugar Glazed Ham: A Delicious Recipe for Your Holiday Feast

Brown Sugar Glazed Ham is a dish that brings warmth and joy to any gathering, transforming ordinary meals into extraordinary feasts. This delightful recipe has its roots in traditional holiday celebrations, where the sweet and savory combination of brown sugar and ham has been a beloved centerpiece for generations. The caramelized glaze not only enhances the ham’s natural flavors but also creates a beautiful, glossy finish that is visually stunning and utterly irresistible.

People adore Brown Sugar Glazed Ham for its perfect balance of taste and texture. The sweetness of the brown sugar melds beautifully with the savory, smoky notes of the ham, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and indulgent. Additionally, this recipe is incredibly convenient, making it an ideal choice for festive occasions or family dinners. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can create a show-stopping meal that will leave your guests raving and coming back for seconds!

Ingredients:

• 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup water
• Whole cloves (optional, for studding the ham)

Preparing the Ham

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Remove the ham from its packaging and place it on a large cutting board. If the ham has a thick layer of skin, use a sharp knife to carefully score the surface in a diamond pattern, making cuts about 1 inch apart. This will help the glaze penetrate the meat and create a beautiful presentation.
3. If desired, stud the ham with whole cloves by inserting them into the intersections of the diamond cuts. This adds flavor and a decorative touch.
4. Place the ham in a large roasting pan, cut side down. Pour 1/2 cup of water into the bottom of the pan to keep the ham moist during cooking.

Preparing the Glaze

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, ground ginger, black pepper, and salt.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar has dissolved and the glaze is smooth. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to let it boil.
3. Once the glaze is ready, remove it from the heat and set aside. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the glaze for basting later.

Cooking the Ham

1. Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil, ensuring that it does not touch the surface of the ham. This will help retain moisture while it cooks.
2. Place the ham in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-18 minutes per pound. For an 8-pound ham, this will take approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C).
3. After the first hour of cooking, remove the ham from the oven and carefully peel back the foil. Brush the ham generously with the prepared glaze, making sure to get it into the scored cuts.
4. Return the ham to the oven, uncovered, and continue to bake. Baste the ham with the reserved glaze every 20-30 minutes for the remaining cooking time. This will create a beautiful caramelized crust.

Finishing Touches

1. When the ham reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven. Let it rest for about 15-20 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful ham.
2. While the ham is resting, you can prepare any side dishes you plan to serve with it, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
3. Once rested, use a sharp carving knife to slice the ham against the grain into thin slices. Arrange the slices on a serving platter.
4. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the sliced ham for added flavor and presentation.

Serving Suggestions

1. Serve the brown sugar glazed ham warm, alongside your favorite side dishes. It pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, sweet potato casserole, or a tangy coleslaw.
2. For a festive touch, garnish the platter with fresh herbs, such as rosemary or parsley, and slices of citrus fruits like oranges or pineapples.
3. Leftover ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It can be used in sandwiches, salads, or added to soups and casseroles.

Tips for the Perfect Brown Sugar

Conclusion:

In summary, this Brown Sugar Glazed Ham recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their dining experience with a dish that is both simple to prepare and incredibly delicious. The combination of sweet brown sugar, tangy mustard, and savory spices creates a glaze that caramelizes beautifully, resulting in a ham that is not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast, a family gathering, or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds. For serving suggestions, consider pairing your Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. You can also experiment with variations by adding different spices or glazes, such as pineapple juice for a tropical twist or a hint of bourbon for a richer flavor profile. We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own! Don’t forget to share your experience and any personal touches you added to the dish. Your feedback and creativity can inspire others to enjoy this delightful Brown Sugar Glazed Ham as much as you will. Happy cooking! Print