Delicious Honey-Glazed Ham Recipe with Brown Sugar

Introduction to Honey-Glazed Ham

Honey-glazed ham is a classic dish that brings delight to any table. With its rich flavors and sweet aroma, this recipe featuring brown sugar makes the perfect centerpiece for your holiday gatherings or family dinners.

A show-stopping centerpiece with a glossy, caramelized crust — tender, juicy ham coated in a sweet honey-brown sugar glaze, balanced with hints of pineapple and warm spices.

🕒 Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 2 to 2½ hours

• Rest Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

• Servings: 10–12

🍯 Ingredients

For the Ham

• 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (8–10 lbs)

• Whole cloves (optional, for garnish)

• 1 (20 oz / 565g) can pineapple slices, drained (reserve juice)

• Maraschino cherries (optional for decoration)

For the Honey Glaze

• 1 cup (220g) brown sugar, packed

• ½ cup (120ml) honey

• ¼ cup (60ml) pineapple juice (from the can)

• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg

🔪 Directions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a roasting pan with foil and place a rack inside for easy cleanup.

2. Score the Ham
   Using a sharp knife, make ½-inch deep diagonal cuts across the ham in both directions, creating a diamond pattern. This allows the glaze to soak in beautifully.

3. Add the Pineapple Topping (Optional)
   Arrange pineapple slices over the ham, securing each with a toothpick or clove. Place a cherry in the center of each pineapple ring if desired.

4. Prepare the Glaze
   In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, honey, pineapple juice, Dijon mustard, vinegar, and spices.
   Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened and glossy. Remove from heat.

5. Glaze and Bake
   Brush a generous layer of glaze all over the ham. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 1½ hours, basting every 30 minutes with additional glaze.

6. Caramelize the Crust
   Remove foil and brush one final coat of glaze. Increase oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, until the exterior is dark and sticky.

7. Rest and Slice
   Remove from oven and let rest 15 minutes before slicing. Spoon pan juices over slices when serving.

💡 Pro Tips

• Substitute pineapple juice with orange juice for a citrus twist.

• For extra caramelization, broil the ham for 2–3 minutes at the end.

• Leftovers make incredible ham sliders or breakfast omelets!