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There’s something undeniably special about a beautifully glazed ham, especially when it’s the centerpiece of a holiday feast or a Sunday family dinner. Easy Brown Sugar Glazed Ham is a classic dish that combines the savory richness of ham with the sweet, caramelized goodness of a brown sugar glaze. This recipe is perfect for those who want to impress their guests without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a show-stopping ham that’s tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor.

Imagine slicing into a ham with a glossy, golden-brown crust that’s slightly crisp on the outside and perfectly moist on the inside. The aroma of brown sugar, spices, and caramelized glaze fills the air, making everyone at the table eager to dig in. This ham isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience, one that brings people together and creates lasting memories. Whether you’re serving it for Easter, Christmas, or a casual gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit.

What makes this recipe truly stand out is its simplicity. The glaze comes together in minutes, and the oven does most of the work, leaving you free to focus on other dishes or simply enjoy the company of your loved ones. Easy Brown Sugar Glazed Ham is proof that you don’t need complicated techniques or fancy ingredients to create a meal that feels luxurious and special. It’s a dish that celebrates tradition, flavor, and the joy of sharing good food with those you care about.

Why This Easy Brown Sugar Glazed Ham?

Selling Points:

• Sweet and Savory: The combination of brown sugar, spices, and ham creates a perfect balance of flavors.
• Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples, this recipe is easy to prepare.
• Versatile: Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or a comforting family dinner.
• Customizable: Adjust the glaze to suit your taste with additional spices or a splash of citrus.

What You Need for Easy Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

Ingredients:

• 1 fully cooked ham (8-10 lbs)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice (or orange juice)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

How to Make Easy Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Prepare the Ham: Place the ham in a large roasting pan, flat side down. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, making shallow cuts about 1/4 inch deep.
3. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey, pineapple juice, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg until smooth.
4. Glaze the Ham: Brush half of the glaze evenly over the ham, making sure to get into the scored cuts.
5. Bake the Ham: Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes.
6. Caramelize the Glaze: During the last 15 minutes of baking, remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) to allow the glaze to caramelize.
7. Rest and Serve: Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with any remaining glaze on the side.

Tips for the Perfect Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

• Choose the Right Ham: Opt for a fully cooked, bone-in ham for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overcook: Since the ham is already cooked, you’re just reheating it and adding flavor with the glaze.
• Baste Regularly: Basting ensures the ham stays moist and absorbs the glaze’s flavors.
• Add Pineapple Slices: For a classic touch, arrange pineapple slices on the ham before glazing.

Substitutions and Variations

• No Honey: Substitute with maple syrup or molasses.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the glaze.
• Citrus Twist: Use orange or lemon juice instead of pineapple juice for a tangy flavor.
• Herb Infusion: Add a sprig of rosemary or thyme to the glaze for an aromatic twist.

Make a Healthier Version

• Reduce Sugar: Use 1/2 cup of brown sugar and increase the mustard for a tangier glaze.
• Low-Sodium Ham: Choose a low-sodium ham to control salt intake.
• Natural Sweeteners: Replace honey with agave nectar or a sugar-free syrup.
• Add Fruit: Serve with a side of fresh fruit salad for a lighter meal.

Closing for Easy Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

This Easy Brown Sugar Glazed Ham is more than just a dish—it’s a celebration of tradition, flavor, and the joy of bringing people together. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or a special family dinner, this ham is sure to impress. Don’t forget to let us know how your ham turns out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes for more culinary inspiration. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

Can I make this ham ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the glaze and score the ham a day in advance. Store the ham in the refrigerator and bake it just before serving.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Freeze sliced ham in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I use a spiral-cut ham?
Yes, but reduce the baking time slightly to prevent drying out.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, ensure your mustard and other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I add other flavors?
Yes, try adding ginger, allspice, or a splash of bourbon to the glaze.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, place the ham in a slow cooker, brush with glaze, and cook on low for 4-6 hours, basting occasionally.

What’s the best way to serve this ham?
Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I make this vegan?
Yes, use a plant-based ham substitute and adjust the glaze ingredients as needed.

This Easy Brown Sugar Glazed Ham is a testament to the magic of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create something truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is a must-try. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking!