Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

This brown sugar glazed spiral ham offers a warm and inviting centerpiece that brings comfort and festivity to any occasion. The glaze’s sweet richness, balanced by tangy mustard and comforting spices, slowly caramelizes to create a tender, flavorful ham that invites lingering at the table. Perfect for holiday feasts or a special family dinner, this recipe turns a simple ham into something truly memorable.

I first made this ham for a holiday gathering when I wanted something impressive but not complicated. It was such a hit that it has become my go to for festive meals ever since.

Ingredients

• Fully cooked spiral sliced ham (8 to 10 pounds): the spiral cut helps serve slices easily and ensures even heating
• Dark brown sugar: provides the rich sweetness and depth needed for caramelization look for a moist, high quality brand
• Honey: adds floral sweetness and a sticky texture that helps the glaze cling to the ham
• Dijon mustard: offers a subtle tang and complexity choose a smooth, well balanced variety
• Apple cider vinegar: cuts through the sweetness and adds a gentle acidity that prevents the glaze from being overly sweet
• Ground cinnamon: lends warmth and a hint of spice fresh cinnamon from a trusted source will enhance flavor
• Ground cloves: optional but adds aromatic depth use sparingly to avoid overpowering
• Garlic powder: brings a mild savory note that complements the sweet elements
• Onion powder: deepens the savory base without altering the texture
• Unsalted butter: enriches the glaze with creaminess and helps with browning
• Orange juice: optional for thinning the glaze and adding a subtle citrus brightness use freshly squeezed if possible
• Fresh parsley: optional for garnish that adds a touch of color and fresh flavor

Instructions

Initial Preparation:

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (160 degrees Celsius). Remove the ham from its packaging and place it in a large roasting pan or oven safe dish to catch the drippings.

Creating the Perfect Glaze:

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the dark brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cinnamon, cloves if using, garlic powder, onion powder, and unsalted butter. Stir frequently to dissolve the sugar and blend the ingredients. If the mixture feels too thick, add the orange juice little by little until the glaze reaches a smooth, pourable consistency. Continue cooking for about five minutes until the glaze thickens slightly.

Initial Ham Baking:

Cover the ham loosely with foil to keep moisture in and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for roughly one hour or about 10 to 12 minutes per pound to warm the meat thoroughly.

Apply the Glaze:

Remove the foil and spoon the glaze generously over the ham, focusing on the spaces between the spiral slices to ensure flavor seeps in. Return the ham to the oven uncovered. Every 15 minutes, baste more glaze over the top to build a sticky, caramelized coating. Continue baking like this for 30 to 45 minutes until the glaze is glossy and golden.

Rest and Garnish:

Take the ham out of the oven and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute so every slice stays juicy. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, slice, and serve while warm.

My favorite part of this recipe is the blend of spices in the glaze. The warmth of cinnamon and subtle clove notes perfectly complement the sweetness, creating a richly layered taste. This ham was the star of our family’s holiday dinners last year, sparking warm conversations as everyone savored each slice.

Ingredient Substitutions

Maple syrup can replace honey for a deeper caramel flavor and aromatic complexity. Balsamic vinegar substitutes for apple cider vinegar to add a richer sweetness and subtle acidity. For a bold twist, bourbon replaces orange juice to infuse the glaze with smoky sophistication.

Storage Tips

Cool leftovers completely before refrigerating in an airtight container to maintain moisture. Reheat gently in the oven with some glaze or ham juices to avoid drying out. Freeze sliced ham portions in vacuum sealed bags or freezer safe containers for best longevity.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this ham with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a tangy fruit chutney to balance the richness. Add a fresh green salad or steamed asparagus for color and textural contrast. Serve with warm rolls or crusty bread to soak up extra glaze.

This brown sugar glazed spiral ham is easy to prepare and makes an impressive centerpiece. Serve it warm so guests can enjoy the caramelized glaze and juicy slices.

Your Recipe Questions Answered

→ How can I thicken a thin glaze?

Simmer the glaze longer to reduce or add extra brown sugar a tablespoon at a time until desired thickness is reached.

→ Is it possible to prepare the glaze beforehand?

Yes, prepare the glaze up to a day in advance, refrigerate airtight, and gently warm before applying to ensure smooth consistency.

→ How do I prevent the ham slices from drying out?

Cover the ham loosely during initial baking to retain moisture, and baste frequently during glazing to keep slices juicy.

→ Can I omit cloves from the glaze?

Absolutely, cloves add warmth but can be left out without compromising the overall flavor balance.

→ What is the best way to store leftover ham?

Cool completely, wrap tightly in freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in refrigerator before reheating gently.