Looking to wow your guests this holiday season with a show-stopping main dish? A Brown Sugar Glazed Ham is a timeless favorite that’s not only easy to make but irresistibly delicious. This guide covers everything from choosing the right ham to glazing, roasting, serving, and storing leftovers. Whether you’re prepping for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Sunday dinner, this sweet, savory, and sticky glazed ham recipe has you covered. You’ll also find pro tips, a handy table of ingredients, and answers to popular questions.
Don’t miss our Fresh Ham with Cracklings Recipe if you’re looking for more pork perfection.
JUMP TO
Table of Contents
How to Make the Best Brown Sugar Glazed Ham at Home
Choosing the Right Ham
Spiral-Cut Bone-In Ham vs. Boneless
When it comes to flavor and presentation, a bone-in spiral-cut ham reigns supreme. The bone helps retain moisture, and the pre-sliced format makes serving a breeze.
Understanding “No Added Water” Labels
Look for labels like “no added water” or “natural juices” to avoid diluted flavor. Avoid “water-added” hams, as they can steam instead of roast.
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Glaze
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spiral-cut ham | 8–10 lbs |
| Light brown sugar | 2 cups |
| Honey | 1 cup |
| Dijon mustard | 1/2 cup |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tbsp |
| Apple cider vinegar | 2 tbsp |
These pantry-friendly ingredients combine for a rich, caramelized glaze with just the right amount of tang and spice.
Prepping the Ham Before Baking
Removing Packaging and Rinsing
Unwrap your ham, discard the glaze packet (if included), and rinse off any gelatin layer that may have formed.
Letting the Ham Sit at Room Temperature
Allowing the ham to rest for about 30 minutes ensures even cooking. Cold ham straight from the fridge may heat unevenly in the oven.
Glazing and Roasting: Step-by-Step Instructions
Making the Brown Sugar Glaze
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes until thick and syrupy.
How to Apply the Glaze
Using a basting brush or spoon, coat the entire ham with half of the glaze. Be sure to get in between slices for maximum flavor.
Oven Temperature and Timing
| Ham Weight | Bake Time @ 325°F |
|---|---|
| 8 lbs | ~1 hour 45 minutes |
| 10 lbs | ~2 hours 15 minutes |
Cover ham loosely with foil and bake. Glaze again every 20–30 minutes. During the final 15 minutes, remove the foil for a caramelized finish.
Pro Tips for Perfect Glazing
- Use a roasting pan with a rack for even heat distribution
- Add a bit of water or broth to the pan bottom to keep ham moist
- Don’t over-glaze early — it may burn. Add layers gradually.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Slow Cooker Beef Barbacoa Recipe for another bold main dish.
Serving, Storing & Pairing Ideas
How to Slice and Serve Ham
Slice along the natural spiral and serve with extra glaze drizzled on top. For a rustic vibe, serve on a wooden board with fresh herbs.
Perfect Side Dishes to Pair
| Savory Sides | Sweet Sides |
|---|---|
| Scalloped potatoes | Candied yams |
| Roasted Brussels sprouts | Maple-glazed carrots |
| Green bean casserole | Apple cranberry chutney |
Discover great ideas like Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes to complete your holiday table.
Leftover Ham Storage Tips
- Fridge: Store in airtight containers up to 5 days
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months
- Reheat: Warm slices in foil at 300°F for 10–15 mins
Check out Crockpot Salsa Chicken Recipe if you’re planning to reinvent leftovers into a new dish!
FAQs About Brown Sugar Glazed Ham
Do you cook a ham covered or uncovered?
Start covered with foil to keep it moist. Uncover during the last 15–20 minutes for a caramelized top.
Can I make this glaze ahead of time?
Yes! Make the glaze up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently before applying.
What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
Swap with yellow mustard or a blend of spicy brown and honey mustard.
How do I keep the ham from drying out?
Use a roasting pan with a bit of liquid, cover with foil, and don’t overcook. Target 140°F internal temp.
Can I use this glaze on turkey or chicken?
Absolutely. This brown sugar glaze works wonderfully with other meats too.
Conclusion: A Holiday Favorite Worth Repeating
Brown Sugar Glazed Ham brings the perfect mix of sweet and savory to your dinner table. With simple ingredients and a foolproof process, this crowd-pleaser will quickly become your go-to for festive gatherings. Serve it with comforting sides, store your leftovers smartly, and enjoy the delicious results all week long.
Don’t miss our Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins Recipe if you’re hunting for dessert ideas to complement your ham dinner!
PrintBrown Sugar Glazed Ham
This Brown Sugar Glazed Ham recipe delivers the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors with a sticky, caramelized glaze, ideal for holidays or special gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12–14 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 1 (8- to 10-pound) bone-in, spiral-cut ham, with no added water or juices
- 2 cups packed light brown sugar
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Remove packaging from ham and allow it to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened.
- Place ham on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Brush half the glaze over the ham, making sure to get between the slices.
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours and 15 minutes, depending on ham size.
- Every 30 minutes, baste with additional glaze. During the last 15 minutes, remove the foil and brush on the remaining glaze.
- Continue baking uncovered until caramelized and heated to an internal temperature of 140°F.
- Remove from oven, rest for 15 minutes, then slice and serve.
Notes
- Use a roasting pan with a rack and a bit of liquid to prevent ham from drying out.
- Make glaze ahead and store in fridge up to 3 days.
- For a tangier flavor, add extra vinegar or substitute with orange juice.
- This glaze works well on turkey or chicken, too.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 6 oz)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 1180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
