Holiday meals and special gatherings call for something rich, tender, and full of flavor. A brown sugar glazed ham brings just that—slow-roasted meat coated in a sticky, caramelized glaze with just the right balance of sweet and savory.
The magic is in the glaze. Brown sugar melts into a golden crust, blending with Dijon mustard, honey, and warm spices to create a deep, rich coating. As the ham bakes, the flavors soak in, keeping every bite moist and full of flavor.
Making this ham at home is easier than it looks. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you’ll have a centerpiece that impresses without stress. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday feast or a casual weekend meal, this recipe brings bold flavor with minimal effort.
Why This Brown Sugar Glazed Ham Stands Out
A well-made ham is more than just baked meat—it’s about layers of flavor and the right balance of textures. The caramelized glaze, tender meat, and slow-roasted aroma make this one worth serving again and again.
- Deeply Caramelized Glaze – The brown sugar mixture creates a golden, sticky coating that enhances the natural flavors.
- Juicy, Tender Meat – Slow baking locks in moisture, keeping every slice soft and flavorful.
- Easy to Make – Minimal prep, no special skills required—just a simple process with delicious results.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor – A balance of sweet, salty, and slightly tangy flavors makes it a hit for any gathering.
- Leftovers That Keep Giving – Whether in sandwiches, soups, or casseroles, extra ham never goes to waste.
This ham works for any occasion, from holiday dinners to weeknight meals. The best part? It tastes just as good the next day.
What You’ll Need for Brown Sugar Glazed Ham
The right combination of ingredients makes all the difference. Each one plays a role in creating a rich, flavorful glaze and keeping the meat tender.
- Bone-In Ham – The bone adds flavor and moisture, making every bite juicier. A pre-cooked ham works best.
- Brown Sugar – The base of the glaze, adding deep sweetness and caramelization.
- Honey – Helps thicken the glaze and adds a rich, golden color.
- Dijon Mustard – Brings a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Cuts through the richness for a more complex flavor.
- Cloves – Traditionally used for a warm, slightly spiced finish.
- Butter – Adds a glossy shine and richer taste.
These simple but bold ingredients turn an ordinary ham into something unforgettable.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Brown Sugar Glazed Ham
Making glazed ham is all about layering flavors and cooking at the right temperature. Each step ensures the ham stays juicy while developing that caramelized crust.
- Prepare the Ham – Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the ham in a roasting pan and score the surface with shallow cuts. This helps the glaze soak in.
- Make the Glaze – In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and cloves. Simmer until thick and glossy.
- Coat and Bake – Brush the ham with a layer of glaze, cover with foil, and bake for 1 ½ to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes.
- Caramelize the Top – Remove the foil, brush with the remaining glaze, and increase the oven temperature to 425°F (218°C). Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Rest and Serve – Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This locks in the juices.
The result? A perfectly roasted ham with a deep, caramelized crust and juicy, flavorful meat.
Side Dishes for Brown Sugar Glazed Ham
A great ham deserves side dishes that complement its sweet and smoky flavors. Whether you prefer classic pairings or something fresh, these options all work well.
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Garlic Mashed Potatoes | Creamy and buttery, a perfect contrast to the sweet glaze. |
| Roasted Brussels Sprouts | Slightly crispy and caramelized, adding a savory balance. |
| Buttery Dinner Rolls | Soft and warm, ideal for soaking up the glaze. |
| Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes | Rich and creamy, a comforting side for any ham dinner. |
| Maple Glazed Carrots | Naturally sweet with a slight caramelized edge. Pairs beautifully with the brown sugar glaze. |
| Southern-Style Collard Greens | A savory, slightly smoky green that cuts through the richness. |
| Apple Pecan Salad | Crisp apples, nuts, and a light dressing bring a fresh contrast. |
These sides create a well-rounded meal, adding textures and flavors that balance the ham’s sweetness.
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How to Store and Reheat Leftover Ham
Leftover ham stays fresh for days and works well in many dishes. Keeping it properly stored ensures it stays moist and flavorful.
- Refrigeration – Store leftover ham in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Wrap slices in foil or plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
- Freezing – For longer storage, freeze ham in airtight bags for up to 3 months. Slice before freezing for easy use later.
- Reheating in the Oven – Cover ham slices with foil and heat at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. Add a little broth to keep moisture in.
- Reheating in a Skillet – Warm slices in a pan over low heat with a little butter or glaze for extra flavor.
If you have leftovers, they make great sandwiches, breakfast scrambles, or soups.
FAQs About Brown Sugar Glazed Ham
How long should I bake a fully cooked ham?
A pre-cooked ham should bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 15 minutes per pound. Use a meat thermometer to check—it’s done when it reaches 140°F (60°C).
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the glaze up to 3 days in advance. Store it in the fridge and reheat before using.
What if my ham starts to dry out?
Baste it with extra glaze or cover with foil during baking. Adding a little apple juice or broth to the pan helps keep moisture in.
Do I have to use cloves?
No, but they add warmth and depth to the glaze. If you prefer, swap them for cinnamon or nutmeg.
Can I use this glaze on other meats?
Yes, this works well on pork tenderloin or roasted chicken for a similar sweet-savory finish.
Brown sugar glazed ham brings bold flavors without the hassle. Whether for holidays or weekend dinners, this easy recipe delivers a perfectly roasted, caramelized ham that’s packed with flavor. Let me know if you need any adjustments!
Brown Sugar Glazed Ham
Equipment
- Roasting Pan For baking the ham
- Small Saucepan For preparing the glaze
- Basting Brush For applying the glaze
- Aluminum Foil To cover the ham while baking
Ingredients
- 8 lb bone-in ham fully cooked
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 tablespoons butter melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the ham in a roasting pan and score the surface in a crisscross pattern.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, and butter. Stir until smooth and thickened.
- Brush a layer of glaze over the ham, cover with foil, and bake for 1 ½ to 2 hours, basting with more glaze every 30 minutes.
- Remove foil, apply a final coat of glaze, and increase oven temperature to 425°F (218°C). Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes until caramelized.
- Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For a smokier glaze, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika.
- Use leftover ham for sandwiches, soups, or casseroles.
- Wrap leftovers tightly to keep them fresh longer.
Carrie is a food writer and editor with more than 15 years of experience. She has worked for some of the biggest names in the food industry, including Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, and Martha Stewart Living.
As the Editor in Chief of IntroChicago.com, Carrie oversees all of the content on the site. She also manages the team of contributing writers and editors, who help to create delicious recipes, helpful tips, and informative articles that you’ll find on the site.
A native of the Chicago area, Carrie is passionate about all things food. She loves trying new restaurants and experimenting with new recipes in her kitchen. She’s also a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, so she knows a thing or two about food!
Sherry Eiler
Friday 7th of March 2025
Can’t believe I made something this good at home!
Frank Byrd
Friday 7th of March 2025
Loved every bite! The seasoning was perfect, and the texture was spot on.