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Brown Sugar Ham Glaze

Brown Sugar Ham Glaze made with honey, pineapple/orange juice, and Dijon for a glossy, amber finish. Simmered until slightly thickened, then brushed on during the last 30 minutes so it clings to a scored ham’s diamond pattern.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 130
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Brown sugar glaze base
  • 1 cup brown sugar Packed for best thickness.
  • 0.25 cup honey
  • 0.25 cup pineapple or orange juice Use pineapple for a fruity note or orange for brighter citrus.
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp butter Helps create a glossy sheen as it melts.
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar Adds balance and cuts sweetness.
  • 0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 0.25 tsp ground cloves

Equipment

  • 1 saucepan

Method
 

Make the glaze
  1. Combine brown sugar, honey, pineapple or orange juice, Dijon mustard, butter, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and cloves in a saucepan.
  2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves, and keep it at a gentle bubbling pace.
  3. Simmer 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened and glossy, then remove from heat so it stays pourable.
Glaze the ham
  1. Brush the warm glaze over a fully cooked ham during the last 30 minutes of baking.
  2. Repeat brushing every 10 minutes during those final bake intervals for even amber coverage.
  3. Spoon the remaining warm glaze over sliced ham at the table.

Notes

Pro tip: Keep the glaze warm so it brushes smoothly; if it thickens too much, stir over low heat for a few seconds. Store leftover glaze covered in the refrigerator up to 5 days; rewarm gently before serving. Freezing is not recommended because the texture can separate. Dietary swap: use maple syrup in place of honey for a similar flavor profile (results may be slightly less glossy).