Brown Sugar Glazed Ham
A show-stopping centerpiece for any holiday meal. This juicy, spiral-cut ham is baked to perfection with a sweet and tangy brown sugar glaze that caramelizes into an irresistible crust.
For 12 servings
6 steps. 120 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare Ham and Oven
- b.Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Allow the ham to sit at room temperature for about 1 hour for more even cooking.
- c.Place the ham, cut-side down, in a large roasting pan. Pour 1 cup of water into the bottom of the pan to create steam.
- d.If using, stud the ham with whole cloves by pressing them into the surface in a decorative diamond pattern.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Initial Baking
- b.Cover the roasting pan tightly with heavy-duty aluminum foil.
- c.Bake for 90 minutes, or approximately 10-12 minutes per pound, until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part (not touching bone) registers 120°F (50°C).
- 3
Step 3
- a.Prepare the Glaze
- b.While the ham bakes, combine the packed brown sugar, pineapple juice, honey, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon in a small saucepan.
- c.Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- d.Let it bubble gently for 2-3 minutes until the glaze thickens slightly, then remove from the heat.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Glaze the Ham
- b.Carefully remove the ham from the oven and increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C).
- c.Discard the foil. Brush about half of the warm glaze evenly over the entire surface of the ham, making sure to get it between the spiral slices.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Finish Baking and Caramelize
- b.Return the ham to the oven, uncovered. Bake for an additional 20-30 minutes.
- c.Baste with the remaining glaze every 10 minutes. The ham is ready when the glaze is bubbly and beautifully caramelized, and the internal temperature reaches a final 140°F (60°C).
- 6
Step 6
- a.Rest and Serve
- b.Transfer the glazed ham to a carving board and tent loosely with foil. Let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing.
- c.Resting is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful ham.
- d.Carve along the bone and serve warm.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable way to ensure your ham is perfectly heated without drying out.
- 2If the glaze starts to get too dark during the final baking stage, loosely tent the ham with a piece of foil.
- 3Letting the ham rest before carving is non-negotiable for a juicy result.
- 4Save the ham bone! It's fantastic for making flavorful soups, stocks, or cooking with beans.
- 5Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It's perfect for sandwiches, salads, or breakfast hashes.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Glaze
Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a tablespoon of sriracha to the glaze for a sweet and spicy kick.
Maple Bourbon GlazeMaple-Bourbon Glaze
Replace the honey with an equal amount of maple syrup and add 2 tablespoons of bourbon to the glaze for a rich, smoky flavor.
Citrus GlazeCitrus Glaze
Use orange juice instead of pineapple juice and add 1 tablespoon of fresh orange zest for a brighter, citrus-forward taste.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Protein Source
Ham provides high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and maintaining overall body function.
Rich in B Vitamins
It's a good source of several B vitamins, including thiamine, niacin, and B6. These vitamins are crucial for converting food into energy and supporting nervous system health.
Provides Key Minerals
Contains important minerals like selenium, a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from damage, and phosphorus, which is vital for strong bones and teeth.
Frequently asked questions
An average serving of about 225g (8 oz) typically contains between 350 and 450 calories. The exact number can vary based on the ham's fat content and the amount of glaze applied.