Introduction to Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Honey Orange Glaze

There’s something magical about a table adorned with a beautiful Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Honey Orange Glaze. It’s like a warm embrace after a long day! This recipe is a brilliant way to elevate your next family gathering without spending hours in the kitchen. As a busy mom, I understand the need for delicious yet effortless meals that create lasting memories. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple Sunday dinner, this ham is sure to impress your loved ones and bring smiles all around. Let’s dive in and make some culinary magic!

Why You’ll Love This Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Honey Orange Glaze

This Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Honey Orange Glaze isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s a treasure trove of flavor! It’s simple to throw together, freeing up your time for family and fun instead of fussing in the kitchen. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors makes each bite a delight, perfect for both special occasions and feel-good weeknight meals. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredients for Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Honey Orange Glaze

Now, let’s gather the stars of our show! Here’s what you’ll need for this Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Honey Orange Glaze:

Fully cooked boneless spiral cut ham: A six-pound beauty is ideal. Smoked ham brings extra flavor!
Apple cider: Not vinegar, please! It adds sweetness and depth to your glaze.
Low-sodium chicken broth: This keeps things savory without overwhelming the dish. You can even use vegetable broth for a twist.
Orange marmalade: The star of the glaze! It offers a sweet, citrusy touch that harmonizes well with all the flavors.
Honey: Adds natural sweetness and pairs beautifully with the orange flavors.
Brown sugar: This gives the glaze that caramelized finish when baked. It’s also what makes the crust so delicious!
Dijon mustard: A zesty kick that helps balance the sweetness. You can use yellow mustard if that’s what you have.
Unsalted butter: It adds richness to the glaze. Plus, who can resist butter?
Fresh orange: You’ll need both the zest and juice. Fresh juice is a game-changer for flavor!
Salt and black pepper: Standard seasonings that enhance the dish beautifully.
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): A dash of spice could elevate the dish and add an exciting twist.
Fresh thyme sprigs (optional): A fragrant herb that can add an extra layer of flavor. Feel free to skip if you’re not a fan!

Don’t worry! If you need exact measurements for your shopping list, just scroll to the bottom of the article. They’re all there for you to print and take along!

How to Make Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Honey Orange Glaze

Now, let’s roll up our sleeves! Making this Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Honey Orange Glaze is a delightful journey. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a stunning centerpiece that will wow your family and friends!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is key! It ensures that your ham cooks evenly, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully from start to finish. You want that glaze to caramelize perfectly, and a hot oven means no waiting around for your masterpiece!

Step 2: Prepare the Ham

Next, let’s prepare our ham. Place it flat-side down in a large, unlined roasting pan fitted with a rack. The rack is crucial for airflow, making sure the heat circulates around the ham evenly. Pour the apple cider and low-sodium chicken broth into the bottom of the pan. This liquid helps keep the ham moist and adds delicious flavor as it bakes. Your kitchen is about to smell heavenly!

Step 3: Make the Honey Orange Glaze

Now, it’s time to create that luscious honey orange glaze! In a small saucepan, combine orange marmalade, honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, unsalted butter, freshly zested orange, and its juice. Add salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Simmer over low heat, stirring until it’s smooth and glossy—about 10 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as it thickens beautifully! Once it looks perfect, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 4: Glaze the Ham

Here comes the fun part! Remove the thyme sprigs from your glaze. Brush one-third of it over the ham, allowing some to seep between those spiral slices. This is where the magic begins! Tenting the ham loosely with foil is essential—it helps keep it moist while baking. You want every bite to be juicy and flavorful.

Step 5: Bake the Ham

Let’s get this beauty in the oven! Bake your ham for about 1 hour and 30 minutes. It’s crucial to check that the internal temperature reaches 140 degrees. This ensures your ham is perfectly warmed through. About 10 to 15 minutes before it’s done, you’ll spoon another third of the glaze over the top. That caramelized topping is what you’ll crave!

Step 6: Optional Broiling for Charred Finish

If you’re feeling adventurous, here’s an optional step! Once your ham is baked to perfection, carefully remove it and flip it onto its side. Broil on high for just 2 to 3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn! This gives the ham a lovely charred finish that adds texture and flavor—wow, right?

Step 7: Resting and Serving

Finally, don’t rush the best part! Remove the ham from the oven and tent it again with foil. Let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This rest time is critical as it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender slice. Now you’re ready to slice, serve, and enjoy with the remaining glaze. Your Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Honey Orange Glaze is ready to shine!

Tips for Success

Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 140°F for the best results.
Allow the ham to rest before slicing—this keeps it juicy and delicious.
Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more honey or brown sugar.
For a flavorful glaze, let it simmer longer to deepen the taste.
Don’t skip the foil tent; it helps maintain moisture while baking!

Equipment Needed

Roasting pan with a rack: If you don’t have a rack, you can use a bed of chopped vegetables instead to elevate the ham.
Small saucepan: A regular pot works just as well for making the glaze.
Meat thermometer: A regular kitchen thermometer can be used for checking the ham’s internal temperature.
Brush: A spoon will do if you don’t have a basting brush for applying the glaze.

Variations of Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Honey Orange Glaze

Maple Glaze: Swap out honey for maple syrup for a rich, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with ham.
Pineapple Addition: Add crushed pineapple to the glaze for a tropical twist—sweet and tangy perfection!
Spice It Up: Infuse the glaze with a tablespoon of ginger or a dash of cayenne for a zesty kick that’ll surprise your family!
Herb Infusion: Try adding rosemary or sage to the glaze for a fragrant twist that complements the sweet notes perfectly.
Low Sugar Version: Substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar and reduce honey to cut down sweetness without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Honey Orange Glaze

Mashed potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they pair perfectly with the sweet glaze.
Roasted veggies: Carrots and Brussels sprouts add color and nutrients to your plate.
Green salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the ham.
Sparkling cider: A refreshing drink that complements the ham’s sweetness beautifully.
Presentation: Serve on a beautiful platter garnished with orange slices and fresh herbs for a stunning display!

FAQs about Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Honey Orange Glaze

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the honey orange glaze a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to use it, warm it gently on the stove before glazing the ham. This saves you precious time on busy days!

How do I store leftover ham?

To keep your delicious Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Honey Orange Glaze fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to keep it longer, slice it and freeze it in portions. It’s a great way to enjoy it later!

Can I use a larger ham?

Certainly! Just adjust your baking time accordingly. A larger ham may require a longer cooking duration, so ensure you check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer. Aim for 140°F for a perfectly heated ham!

What sides go well with this ham?

This Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Honey Orange Glaze pairs beautifully with a variety of sides! I recommend creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad to balance the sweetness. It’s all about creating that delightful harmony on your plate.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

<pYes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, especially if you use gluten-free mustard and broth. Always double-check your ingredient labels to ensure everything aligns with your dietary needs. Enjoy every delicious bite without worry!

Final Thoughts

Making this Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Honey Orange Glaze isn’t just about creating a meal; it’s about crafting memories around your dinner table. The sweet and tangy flavors dance together in a symphony, reminding you of family gatherings and special moments. It fills your home with warmth and invites everyone to come together to savor each bite. From busy weekdays to holiday celebrations, this ham is a testament to how food can bring joy to our lives. So grab your apron, get cooking, and watch the smiles light up around your table!

Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Honey Orange Glaze

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Author: Jennifer
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A deliciously glazed ham featuring a sweet and tangy honey orange glaze, perfect for festive occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

6 lb fully cooked boneless spiral cut ham, preferably smoked
1 cup apple cider (NOT apple cider vinegar!)
½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 ½ cups orange marmalade
¼ cup honey
¼ cup brown sugar
3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 large orange (Zest and juice)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Handful fresh thyme sprigs (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the ham flat-side down in a large unlined roasting pan fitted with a rack. Pour the apple cider and broth into the bottom of the pan.
In a small saucepan, combine orange marmalade, honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, butter, orange zest and juice, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and thyme sprigs (if using).
Simmer over low heat, stirring until smooth, glossy, and thickened, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Remove the thyme sprigs and brush one third of the glaze over the ham, making sure some seeps between the spiral slices. Tent loosely with foil and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Remove foil, spoon another third of the glaze over the ham, and bake uncovered for another 20-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 140 degrees.
OPTIONAL: For a charred finish, remove the ham and flip it on its side. Broil on high for 2-3 minutes.
Remove the ham from the oven, re-tent with foil, and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving with the remaining third of the glaze.

Notes

Ensure the ham is fully cooked before serving.
Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor.
Monitor the broiling step closely to prevent burning.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking and Broiling
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 280
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 29g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 50mg