Every time I make this Brown Sugar Glazed Ham, it reminds me of those warm, joyous family gatherings we used to have on special occasions. The smell wafts through the house, filling every nook and cranny with sweetness that dances around like happy memories. I recall sitting around the table with my loved ones, laughter bubbling up as we shared stories while we savored each delicious bite. There’s something about a beautifully glazed ham that makes you feel like you’re enveloped in love and comfort. If you’ve never tried making one yourself, I can assure you that once you do, you’ll feel all those wonderful moments flooding back, too.
Let’s dive right into the magic of making this ham together!
How to make Brown Sugar Glazed Ham
Ingredients:
- 1 fully cooked, bone-in ham (about 7-8 lbs): This ham will be our showstopper! A bone-in ham always gives the best flavor and keeps the meat juicy.
- Whole cloves (optional, for studding the ham): These little aromatic gems add festive flair and a dash of spice.
- 1 cup brown sugar: This is where the sweetness comes in. Brown sugar creates that lovely caramelized coating that we all adore.
- 1/2 cup honey: Honey enhances the glaze’s sweetness and adds a rich flavor profile that complements the ham perfectly.
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard: Don’t shy away from this! It brings a tangy kick that balances all the sweetness.
- 1/4 cup orange juice: Fresh orange juice brings a citrusy brightness to the dish!
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: This adds a touch of acidity, which works wonders to cut through the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A warm spice that enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: This will deepen the warm notes in the glaze and make it wonderfully fragrant.
Cooking Steps
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Prep the Ham and Preheat the Oven: First, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Trust me, this is crucial for a perfectly cooked ham! While that’s heating up, take your fully cooked, bone-in ham and place it in a large roasting pan. If you wish, stud the ham with whole cloves to make it look pretty and taste even better!
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Make the Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, orange juice, apple cider vinegar, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves. Cook over medium heat, stirring everything until the sugar dissolves and the glaze thickens slightly. The aroma of this glaze as it simmers will have your mouth watering in seconds!
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Brush the Ham: Take half of your delightful glaze and brush it all over the ham. This is where we start the magic! Cover the ham loosely with foil and pop it into the oven.
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Bake with Love: Bake for 1 1/2 to 2 hours. Now’s the time to get your basting brush ready! Every 30 minutes, baste the ham with those glorious pan juices. You’ll start to see that beautiful glaze caramelize a bit.
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Caramelize the Glaze: After that time has passed and your home is filled with amazing smells, it’s time to remove the foil. Brush the remaining glaze generously over the ham and increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C). Bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes. This step is essential for getting that gorgeous caramelized, bubbly finish!
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Let It Rest: Once it’s out of the oven, give the ham a little time to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, so your ham will be extra tender! If you want to, garnish it with fresh herbs to make it look even more appealing.
Why I Love Making This Dish
I truly treasure the moments spent making this Brown Sugar Glazed Ham. It’s not just a recipe for me; it’s an experience that brings everyone together. Honestly, it may be one of the simplest dishes to prepare, but it transforms an ordinary meal into something extraordinary. The joy on my family’s faces when this ham hits the table is priceless.
To make things simpler for you, you’ll only need a roasting pan, a small saucepan for the glaze, and some good cooking utensils. This recipe calls for basic tools that most of us already have in our kitchens.
Tips for Perfect Results
- For crispier skin, make sure you monitor the glaze closely during the last baking phase. You want it beautifully caramelized but not burnt, so keep an eye out!
- If you can, use fresh orange juice instead of bottled for the best flavor. I promise it makes a difference!
- Feel free to add in herbs like rosemary or thyme if you want to get a bit adventurous. I love how they smell as they roast alongside the ham.
Serving Suggestions and Sides
One of the great things about Brown Sugar Glazed Ham is how versatile it is! It pairs beautifully with all sorts of side dishes. A classic green bean casserole with its creamy richness would work perfectly. You can also serve it with mashed potatoes or sweet potato casserole.
I also love making a fresh salad alongside to balance the richness of the ham. Toss together mixed greens with some candied pecans, feta cheese, and a light vinaigrette, and you’ll have a beautiful plate! Don’t forget about dinner rolls—everyone loves them to mop up all that delicious glaze!
Leftovers
Now, let’s chat about those delicious leftovers! First, be sure to store any leftover ham in an airtight container in the fridge. I usually try to eat it within a few days, but it tends to disappear quickly! If you find you’ve got a lot left, you can also freeze it for later. Just slice it up, wrap it in small portions, and pop it in the freezer. When you want to reheat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it gently in the oven or microwave.
Emotional Engagement
As you sit down to enjoy your own Brown Sugar Glazed Ham, I want you to take a moment to savor the warmth and love that comes with each bite. You’re going to love this dish, and I’m so excited for you to experience the magic it brings to your family gatherings! When I made this for my family the last time, they couldn’t stop talking about how good it was!
FAQ Section
Can I use a boneless ham?
You can absolutely use a boneless ham, but let me tell you, the bone-in version is so much more flavorful. I’ve tried both ways, and the bone-in just keeps the meat juicier!
How long should I cook the ham?
The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the ham, but a general guide is about 15 minutes per pound if it’s fully cooked. Always refer to the package instructions for the best results.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Make the glaze a day ahead and keep it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stove before using it to glaze your ham.
What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can use yellow mustard in a pinch. It will still provide some of that tangy flavor, so don’t worry too much!
This dish has truly become a favorite in my house, and I’m thrilled to share this Brown Sugar Glazed Ham recipe with you. It’s easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll be looking forward to making it again and again! So grab your apron, gather your family around, and let the love and laughter begin as you create more wonderful memories! Let me know how it turns out, and if your family asks for seconds, just like mine does every time!