Easy Brown Sugar Ham Glaze Recipe: Sweet and Savory Perfection
This easy brown sugar ham glaze recipe will elevate your holiday ham to the next level! It's simple to make, incredibly flavorful, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. This recipe focuses on maximizing flavor using readily available ingredients. Get ready for compliments galore!
Ingredients for the Best Brown Sugar Ham Glaze
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar: The foundation of our delicious glaze. Don't substitute with granulated sugar – the molasses in brown sugar provides that essential depth of flavor.
- ½ cup Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick that perfectly balances the sweetness of the brown sugar. Whole grain mustard can also be used for a slightly coarser texture.
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar: Provides a subtle acidity that brightens the glaze and prevents it from being too cloyingly sweet.
- 2 tablespoons honey: Enhances the sweetness and adds a touch of richness. Maple syrup is a delicious alternative for a more robust flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory, umami depth that complements the sweetness and tang.
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves: Provides a warm, aromatic spice note that’s perfect for a holiday ham.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds another layer of warm spice that blends beautifully with the cloves.
- ¼ teaspoon ground allspice: A subtle but important spice that rounds out the flavor profile.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Glaze
- Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, whisk together the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, cloves, cinnamon, allspice, and salt.
- Simmer and Thicken: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly to prevent scorching. Continue to simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened slightly and resembles a thick syrup.
- Glaze the Ham: Preheat your oven according to your ham's cooking instructions. Once the ham is almost cooked (check the internal temperature), generously brush the glaze over the ham.
- Bake and Glaze Again: Return the ham to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, basting with the glaze every 5 minutes. This ensures that the ham is evenly glazed and the glaze has a nice caramelized finish.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham.
Tips for the Ultimate Brown Sugar Ham Glaze
- Don't overcook the glaze: Overcooking can cause it to become too thick and difficult to spread.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to your liking. If you prefer a less spicy glaze, reduce the amount of cloves, cinnamon, and allspice.
- Use a quality ham: Starting with a good quality ham will make a big difference in the final product.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring it to room temperature before using.
Beyond the Basics: Variations on the Brown Sugar Ham Glaze
- Spicy Ham Glaze: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Pineapple Ham Glaze: Stir in ½ cup of crushed pineapple for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Bourbon Ham Glaze: Add 2 tablespoons of bourbon for a sophisticated and boozy glaze.
This easy brown sugar ham glaze recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
