Easy Baked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe

If you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece that’s both simple to prepare and irresistibly flavorful, this Easy Baked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze is exactly what you need. This recipe brings together the perfect balance of sweet and savory, creating a tender, juicy ham that’s coated in a sticky, caramelized brown sugar glaze. It’s a crowd-pleaser ideal for holiday dinners, family gatherings, or any time you want to treat your loved ones to a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless and Quick: The straightforward preparation ensures you get a delicious meal without fuss or stress.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The brown sugar glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness to complement the smoky ham.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive holiday or a casual Sunday dinner, this ham fits seamlessly.
• Moist and Tender: Baking the ham slowly locks in juiciness while the glaze forms a beautiful crust.
• Impressive Presentation: The glossy, caramelized glaze gives your ham an attractive finish that will wow guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture in this Easy Baked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze recipe. They’re simple pantry staples that come together to elevate a humble ham into a fantastically savory and sweet feast.

• Pre-cooked Ham: Using a pre-cooked ham ensures ease and reduces cooking time dramatically.
• Brown Sugar: The foundation of the glaze, it caramelizes beautifully, giving a rich sweetness and deep color.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a subtle tang that cuts through the sweetness and rounds out the glaze flavor.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: Provides a natural sweetness and encourages a sticky, luscious glaze texture.
• Ground Cloves: Adds warm, spicy notes that evoke holiday cheer and depth to the glaze.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: A splash of acid balances the sweetness and tenderizes the ham slightly.
• Water or Pineapple Juice: Used in the baking pan to maintain moisture and infuse subtle flavors during cooking.

Variations for Easy Baked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can easily tweak it to suit your preferences, dietary needs, or whatever you have on hand. Experiment and make it your own!

• Pineapple Twist: Add pineapple slices on top of the ham before glazing for a tropical sweetness and stunning presentation.
• Spicy Kick: Mix some cayenne pepper or chili flakes into the glaze for a subtle spicy warmth.
• Maple-Only Glaze: Skip the honey and use pure maple syrup for a richer, earthier sweetness.
• Herb Infused: Add fresh rosemary or thyme to the glaze or baking pan for an aromatic herbal touch.
• Low Sugar Version: Substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or reduce it slightly for fewer calories.

How to Make Easy Baked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze

Step 1: Prepare the Ham

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the pre-cooked ham in a roasting pan. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern to help the glaze penetrate deeply.

Step 2: Make the Brown Sugar Glaze

In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, ground cloves, and a splash of apple cider vinegar. Stir until smooth and well blended.

Step 3: Apply the Glaze

Brush a generous amount of the brown sugar glaze over the ham, making sure it seeps into the scored cuts. Reserve some glaze for later application.

Step 4: Bake the Ham

Add water or pineapple juice into the bottom of the roasting pan to keep the ham moist. Cover loosely with foil and bake for about 1 ½ to 2 hours, basting the ham with reserved glaze every 20 minutes to build layers of sticky sweetness.

Step 5: Final Glaze and Brown

Remove the foil during the last 20 minutes of baking to let the glaze caramelize and form a beautiful, glossy crust. Monitor closely to avoid burning.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once baked, let the ham rest for 15–20 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is tender and juicy.

Pro Tips for Making Easy Baked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze

• Score the Ham Deeply: This allows the glaze to soak in and flavor the meat thoroughly.
• Baste Regularly: Applying the glaze multiple times during baking enhances the caramelization and taste.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, check the internal temperature aiming for 140°F (60°C) if reheating a pre-cooked ham.
• Cover Loosely with Foil: Keeps moisture locked in while still allowing the glaze to work its magic.
• Choose Quality Ham: A good-quality pre-cooked ham will make a big difference in tenderness and flavor.

How to Serve Easy Baked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze

Garnishes

Fresh herbs such as parsley or rosemary sprigs add a pop of color and subtle aroma. Thin slices of orange or pineapple around the ham plate bring a bright contrast to the rich glaze.

Side Dishes

This Easy Baked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze pairs beautifully with classic sides like roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, tangy coleslaw, or a crisp green salad. For holiday meals, consider scalloped potatoes or baked macaroni and cheese to make it extra special.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange slices of the glazed ham on a large platter, drizzled with any leftover glaze. Surround with roasted nuts or caramelized shallots for a gourmet touch. You can also serve it alongside fresh fruit chutneys or mustard dips for varied flavor profiles.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover ham tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator where it will stay fresh for 3 to 5 days.

Freezing

If you want to save ham for longer, slice and freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. Properly sealed, it can last up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the ham slices gently in an oven set to 275°F (135°C), covered with foil to keep moisture. Avoid microwaving as it can dry out the meat and glaze.

FAQs

Can I use a fresh ham for this recipe?

This recipe works best with pre-cooked hams to reduce cooking time and ensure tenderness. Using a fresh ham will require different preparation and longer baking.

What type of ham is recommended?

Choose a good-quality, bone-in, pre-cooked ham with a natural or smoked flavor for the best results in taste and texture.

Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

Absolutely! The brown sugar glaze can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just warm it slightly before applying to the ham.

How long should I bake the ham?

Bake at 325°F for about 10-12 minutes per pound, basting regularly. Total time usually ranges from 1 ½ to 2 hours depending on size and oven.

Is this recipe suitable for large gatherings?

Yes! This recipe scales well, and the glaze can easily be doubled or tripled to accommodate bigger hams and more guests.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Baked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze is truly one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug at every bite. It’s effortless, flavorful, and the perfect dish to gather everyone around the table. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple family dinner, I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own kitchen favorite!

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