Name: Brown Sugar Glazed Ham
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-490578H25M
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8-10 lb bone-in ham; 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark); 1/2 cup honey; 1/4 cup Dijon mustard; 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 cup pineapple chunks (for garnish)

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The aroma of a Brown Sugar Glazed Ham wafts through the air like a warm hug wrapped in smoky sweetness, instantly transporting you to a cozy holiday gathering or a family feast. Picture this: that glossy, caramelized exterior glistening under the kitchen lights, promising an explosion of flavors with each slice. If you haven’t tried this mouthwatering dish yet, get ready for a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds dancing!

Now, let me take you down memory lane. I remember the first time I attempted to make this glorious Brown Sugar Glazed Ham at home. The anticipation was palpable as my family gathered around the table, eyes wide and stomachs growling. Little did I know that this recipe would become our go-to for every celebration—birthdays, anniversaries, and even those “just because” moments when we craved something special. Trust me; once you try it, this ham will become your kitchen superstar!

Why You'll Love This Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

This incredible Brown Sugar Glazed Ham transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Brown Sugar Glazed Ham:

Bone-In Ham: Choose a good quality ham weighing around 8-10 pounds for the best flavor and texture during baking.
Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar works great; it adds depth and richness to the glaze.
Honey: Use pure honey for a nice sweetness that complements the brown sugar perfectly.
Dijon Mustard: This provides a tangy kick that balances out the sweetness of the glaze.

For the Garnish:

Pineapple Chunks: Fresh or canned pineapple adds a tropical flair and enhances the ham’s flavor profile.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Brown Sugar Glazed Ham:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This temperature allows your ham to cook slowly and evenly without drying out.

Step 2: Prepare the Ham

Place your bone-in ham on a roasting rack inside a large roasting pan. Score the surface in a diamond pattern with shallow cuts—this not only looks fancy but helps the glaze seep into every bite.

Step 3: Make the Glaze

In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and a splash of apple cider vinegar for acidity. Mix well until you have a thick paste-like consistency that smells absolutely divine.

Step 4: Apply the Glaze

Generously spread half of this luscious glaze over your scored ham. Don’t be shy—get in there! Use your hands or a brush; just make sure every inch gets coated.

Step 5: Bake It Up

Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake for about 1 hour per pound—so if you’re rocking an 8-pound beauty, aim for about eight hours (or until heated through). Remove foil in the last hour to allow it to caramelize nicely.

Step 6: Serve It Right

Once out of the oven and rested lightly (if you can resist!), slice and serve with those fabulous pineapple chunks on top for an extra pop of flavor.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch! Your guests will be raving about this dish long after dinner is over!

You Must Know About Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

This showstopping Brown Sugar Glazed Ham delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to the right temperature. Score the surface of the ham before applying the glaze. Place it in a roasting pan, then baste every 30 minutes for even flavor distribution. This ensures your Brown Sugar Glazed Ham cooks evenly and caramelizes beautifully.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to get creative with your Brown Sugar Glazed Ham! Swap out brown sugar for honey or maple syrup for a different twist. Add spices like cinnamon, cloves, or even a splash of bourbon to elevate the flavor profile and make it uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover Brown Sugar Glazed Ham, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to five days. For reheating, place slices in a covered dish at 350°F until warmed through to maintain juiciness.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

This professional-quality Brown Sugar Glazed Ham relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Sometimes I think my friends come over just for my Brown Sugar Glazed Ham—it’s like they’re on a secret mission to devour every last bite! Their happy faces when they take that first juicy slice are what makes cooking so rewarding.

FAQs

What is Brown Sugar Glazed Ham?

Brown Sugar Glazed Ham is a delicious dish that features ham coated in a sweet, caramelized glaze made from brown sugar, mustard, and various spices. This recipe enhances the rich flavor of the ham while creating a beautiful, shiny exterior. The combination of sweetness from the brown sugar and the savory depth of the ham makes it a popular choice for holiday feasts and special occasions. It’s easy to prepare and can serve as a centerpiece for your dining table.

How do I prepare Brown Sugar Glazed Ham?

To prepare Brown Sugar Glazed Ham, start by scoring the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This allows the glaze to penetrate better. Mix brown sugar with mustard, honey, and spices to create your glaze. Brush it generously over the ham before baking. Bake at a moderate temperature, basting every 20 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful. The result will be a beautifully glazed ham that is juicy on the inside and has a crispy outer layer.

Can I make Brown Sugar Glazed Ham ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Brown Sugar Glazed Ham ahead of time. You can cook it fully and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days before serving. If you want to reheat it, place it in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. Alternatively, you can prepare the glaze separately and apply it just before cooking to retain freshness. This method helps save time on busy days while still providing a delicious meal.

What sides go well with Brown Sugar Glazed Ham?

Brown Sugar Glazed Ham pairs wonderfully with various sides that complement its sweet and savory flavor profile. Classic choices include roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or green bean casserole. For a refreshing contrast, consider serving a tangy coleslaw or a fruit salad. Additionally, cornbread or dinner rolls make great accompaniments to soak up any leftover glaze on your plate.

Conclusion

In summary, Brown Sugar Glazed Ham is an iconic dish perfect for festive meals or family gatherings. Its sweet glaze enhances the rich flavors of ham while creating an appealing presentation. Preparing this dish ahead of time can simplify your cooking process during busy occasions. Pairing it with complementary sides elevates your dining experience even further. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful recipe with loved ones!