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As the holiday season approaches, the kitchen begins to fill with delightful scents and the promise of togetherness. There’s nothing quite like the rich aroma of a Brown Sugar Ham slowly roasting in the oven, its sweet glaze nearly caramelizing as it envelops the savory meat. A few years back, I discovered this incredible recipe that transformed our family gatherings into truly festive occasions. The combination of smoky ham, buttery brown sugar, and a touch of brandy creates a flavor explosion that’s both cozy and surprisingly sophisticated.

What I love most about this Easy Brown Sugar Glazed Ham is its impressive presentation coupled with its straightforward preparation. With just about two hours in the oven and only a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a memorable centerpiece that’s bound to impress. Whether it’s Christmas dinner or Thanksgiving brunch, this ham becomes the talk of the table, providing a dish that’s as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate. So, let’s dive into this easy recipe that promises to bring warmth and deliciousness to your holiday spread!

Why is Brown Sugar Ham a must-try?

Irresistible Flavor Combo: The fusion of brandy and brown sugar creates a sweet, savory glaze that’s simply unforgettable.
Effortless Preparation: With minimal ingredients and just two hours in the oven, this recipe is designed for home cooks of all skill levels.
Festive Centerpiece: Perfect for holiday gatherings, this ham not only tastes amazing but also garners admiration as the star of the table.
Versatile Enjoyment: Ideal for Christmas, Easter, or Thanksgiving, it fits seamlessly into any festive occasion.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: This delicious ham is one everyone will enjoy, making it an easy choice for family and friends.
Advanced Tip: Don’t forget to explore helpful serving suggestions like pairing it with mashed potatoes and green beans for a complete meal.

Brown Sugar Ham Ingredients

• Create the perfect glaze for your holiday centerpiece with these simple ingredients.

For the Ham

Smoked Ham (8-10 pounds) – The star of the dish provides rich flavor and tenderness.

For the Glaze

Brown Sugar (1 cup, packed) – Sweetness boosts the glaze’s flavor; feel free to swap it with coconut sugar for a lighter option.
Brandy (1/2 cup) – Adds depth and richness; apple juice or white grape juice work as non-alcoholic substitutes.
Whole Grain Mustard (2 tablespoons) – Infuses a tangy note to balance sweetness; yellow mustard can also do the job.
Cornstarch (1 tablespoon) – Helps thicken the glaze for a luscious consistency.
Ground Cumin (1 tablespoon) – Imparts an earthy flavor; you can omit this if preferred.
Ground Coriander (1 tablespoon) – Contributes a hint of citrus sweetness to the mix.
Ground Allspice (1 teaspoon) – Adds warmth and complexity to the flavor profile.
Cayenne Pepper (1/2 teaspoon) – Introduces a gentle heat; adjust according to your spice preference.
Salt (2 teaspoons) – Enhances flavors throughout the glaze.

How to Make Brown Sugar Ham

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a large rimmed baking sheet with foil. This sets the stage for even cooking and easy cleanup.
Score the ham by making cuts about 1 inch apart and 1/4-inch deep. This helps the glaze soak in, enhancing the flavor of the meat.
Combine brown sugar, brandy, mustard, cornstarch, cumin, coriander, allspice, cayenne, and salt in a bowl. Mix until smooth to create a thick, flavorful glaze.
Rub half of the glaze mixture all over the ham, making sure to get into the scored sections, then bake for 45 minutes. This initial bake allows the flavors to meld.
Glaze the ham again with the remaining mixture after 45 minutes, then return it to the oven for an additional 45-75 minutes, or until the exterior is caramelized and the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C).

Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Brown Sugar Ham

Fridge: Store leftover Brown Sugar Ham in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days. Make sure it’s well-wrapped to prevent drying out or absorbing other odors.

Freezer: You can freeze ham for up to 2 months. Slice it into individual portions and wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag to keep it fresh.

Reheating: To reheat, use the oven at 325°F (163°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. Adding a splash of stock or water can help keep it moist.

Room Temperature: If left out, be cautious! To maintain food safety, avoid leaving ham at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Brown Sugar Ham Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful ham recipe with these scrumptious options!

Spiral-Cut Ham: Choose a spiral-cut version for easy serving and extra glaze coverage.
Boneless Ham: Opt for a boneless ham, which makes slicing a breeze while still delivering fabulous flavor.
Citrus Twist: Add fresh orange or pineapple juice to the glaze for a burst of fruity brightness that enhances the sweet notes.
Mustard Swap: Experiment with Dijon or spicy brown mustard instead of whole grain for a kickier flavor profile.
Herbed Glaze: Mix in minced fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the glaze, elevating the dish with aromatic depth.
Smoky Flavor: Add a dash of liquid smoke to the glaze for an extra layer of rich, smoky flavor that brings out the ham’s essence.
Heat It Up: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the glaze for those who crave a bit of spice.
Nutty Touch: Sprinkle crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts on top of the glaze before baking for added crunch and flavor contrast.

What to Serve with Brown Sugar Ham?

Serve your family and friends a meal that captivates the senses and celebrates togetherness.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery texture balances the sweetness of the ham, making every bite feel indulgent.
Green Bean Almondine: Fresh green beans sautéed with almonds add a crunchy contrast and vibrant color to the plate.
Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, these carrots complement the glaze of the ham, enhancing the meal’s festive feel.
Savory Collard Greens: Their earthy flavors cut through the sweetness, providing a welcomed balance that elevates your holiday spread.
Dinner Rolls: Fluffy and warm, they’re perfect for soaking up any remaining glaze on the plate, making every bite memorable.
Pineapple Salsa: A bright, zesty topping made with sweet pineapple adds a refreshing twist that contrasts beautifully with the savory ham.
Spiced Apple Cider: This delightful beverage warms up the meal and offers a comforting flavor that resonates with the holiday spirit.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, this rich and velvety treat is an elegant way to end a festive feast, balancing the meal’s flavors with its smoothness.
Pumpkin Pie: A classic holiday treat with its spiced filling will round out your meal, keeping the festive theme alive.

Expert Tips for Brown Sugar Ham

Quality Matters: Use a good-quality smoked ham for the best flavor. An inferior ham may result in a less satisfying dish.
Perfect Glaze: If you want a richer glaze, simmer the glaze ingredients on the stove for a few minutes before applying it to the ham for extra depth.
Temperature Check: Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The ham should reach 145°F for safe consumption.
Resting Time: Allow the ham to rest for 15-20 minutes after cooking. This makes carving easier and keeps it juicy.
Creative Twists: Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices or citrus elements in the glaze. A splash of orange juice can complement the sweetness of the brown sugar beautifully.

Make Ahead Options

This Easy Brown Sugar Glazed Ham is a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time during holiday meal prep. You can prepare the glaze up to 24 hours in advance—just mix together the brown sugar, brandy, mustard, cornstarch, and spices, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain its luscious consistency, be sure to let it come to room temperature before use. When you’re ready to enjoy the ham, simply score the meat, rub on the glaze, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have a delightful centerpiece with minimal last-minute effort, allowing you to savor the festivities with your family!

Brown Sugar Ham Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best smoked ham for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for a high-quality smoked ham that is well-marbled for optimal flavor and tenderness. An 8 to 10-pound ham is ideal, so don’t be afraid to ask your butcher for recommendations!

What is the best way to store leftover Brown Sugar Ham?
Leftover ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. Make sure to keep it well-wrapped to prevent it from drying out or absorbing any other food odors. If you need to store it longer, consider freezing.

Can I freeze Brown Sugar Ham?
Yes! You can freeze the ham for up to 2 months. I recommend slicing it into individual portions to make reheating easier. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer bag, and be sure to label it with the date.

What should I do if my glaze is too runny?
If the glaze turns out too runny, don’t worry! Simply transfer it to a saucepan and simmer it over low heat for about 5-10 minutes to thicken it. Stir continuously to prevent burning. This not only improves the texture but also intensifies the flavors, giving you a perfect glaze for your ham!

Is this recipe safe for pets?
Be cautious! While cooked ham is not toxic to dogs or cats, the high salt content can be risky for their health. It’s best to avoid giving any ham to your pets, especially in large amounts, as it might lead to gastrointestinal issues.

How can I adjust the spice level in the glaze?
Very! If you prefer a milder glaze, simply reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it entirely. You can always add a pinch after tasting to gradually increase the heat level to your liking!