Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe for Ham

Slices of baked ham topped with brown sugar glaze on a platter.

5 from 3 votes

Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe for Ham

This rich and flavorful brown sugar glaze for ham brings out the best in your holiday or Sunday dinner ham. Made with simple ingredients and ready in minutes, it creates a glossy, caramelized coating that's perfectly sweet with just the right hint of tang.

Prep Time2

Cook Time15

Total Time17

Course: Sauces

Cuisine: American

Keyword: brown sugar glaze, brown sugar glaze for ham, brown sugar ham glaze, ham glaze

Servings: servings - enough for 5-8 pound ham

Author: Elena Davis

Ingredients

¼ cup butter
¾ cup brown sugar
½ cup honey or real maple syrup
¼ cup orange juice freshly squeezed is preferred (pineapple juice will also work)
1-2 tablespoons Dijon mustard or whole-grain mustard
⅛ teaspoon powdered ginger
1 sprig thyme stem removed
¼ teaspoon paprika optional

Optional spices:

1 teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

In a small saucepan, whisk together the butter, brown sugar, honey, orange juice, mustard, ginger, thyme, and paprika or other spices (if using). Bring to a boil, then simmer for 2 minutes until it is slightly thickened and the sugar is dissolved; stir occasionally. Remove from heat and allow to cool for 10-15 minutes to thicken even more. Enjoy with fresh ham or smoked ham.

Notes

Score the Ham: Before applying the glaze, score the surface of the ham in a crisscross pattern. This not only enhances the presentation but also allows the glaze to penetrate and flavor the meat more effectively.
Baste Regularly: During the last 30 minutes of the baking process, baste the ham regularly with the glaze. Basting every 10-15 minutes helps to build up a flavorful crust and ensures the ham stays moist. You can also use the pan juices to baste along with the glaze!
Reheat Glaze Before Applying: If the glaze thickens or solidifies, gently reheat it before applying it to the ham. This ensures a smooth and even glaze application.

Nutrition