Irresistibly Juicy Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham Recipe

Posted on February 8, 2026

When the festive season rolls around, the kitchen fills with delicious scents that welcome family and friends alike. One dish that never fails to elevate our gatherings is the Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham. The moment I pop this beauty into the oven, the aroma of melting butter, warm spices, and sweet caramelization fills the air, making it impossible to resist sneaking a taste before dinner.

Not only is this glazed ham a stunning centerpiece, but it’s also wonderfully easy to prepare, ensuring you can focus more on celebrating and less on stressing. With its rich combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, each bite delivers that comforting nostalgia of holiday gatherings around the table. Whether you opt for a traditional bone-in ham or a convenient spiral cut, this recipe transforms your holiday feast into an unforgettable experience. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this delightful dish that promises to become a cherished family favorite for years to come!

Why is Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham so special?

Unforgettable Aroma: As it bakes, your home will be filled with the intoxicating scent of buttery sweetness and warm spices, inviting everyone to the table.
Simplicity Made Delicious: This recipe is designed for effortless execution, allowing even novice cooks to create a stunning centerpiece.
Versatile Options: Enjoy the flexibility of using either a traditional bone-in ham or a convenient spiral cut, making it adaptable for any occasion.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The sweet-tangy glaze strikes the perfect balance, ensuring every bite is a delightful explosion of flavor that keeps guests coming back for more.
Perfect for Leftovers: Any leftover ham can be transformed into delicious meals like hearty sandwiches or flavorful soups, ensuring no meal goes to waste. Consider whipping up some Ham Swiss Sliders for a delightful treat!

Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham Ingredients

For the Ham
• Ham – 8-10 pound bone-in cooked ham; this is your main protein source for maximum flavor and moisture.

For the Glaze
• Unsalted Butter – ½ cup; adds richness and helps in forming the glaze, but you can substitute with margarine for a lighter option.
• Brown Sugar – 1 cup; creates the sweet, sticky glaze that makes this Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham irresistible—feel free to use a sugar substitute if desired.
• Honey – ½ cup; enhances sweetness and depth; maple syrup works well as a flavor twist.
• Dijon Mustard – 2 tablespoons; provides tanginess to balance the sweetness; spicy brown mustard can be used instead.
• Ground Cinnamon – ¼ teaspoon; adds warmth to the flavor profile; omit if you’re not a fan of cinnamon.
• Ground Cloves – ¼ teaspoon; introduces a hint of spiciness; nutmeg is a great alternative.
• Garlic – 4 cloves, smashed; infuses the glaze with aromatic flavor for that added depth.

For Baking
• Water – ½ cup; this creates steam in the oven to keep your ham moist and succulent as it bakes.

How to Make Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham

Preheat: Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This step is crucial to ensure your ham cooks evenly. Let your ham rest at room temperature for 1-2 hours after removing it from its packaging.
Prepare the Tray: Line a baking tray with aluminum foil or parchment paper to catch drippings. Carefully remove the rind from your ham, scoring the fat in a diamond pattern without cutting too deeply.
Bake the Ham: Place the ham in the prepared tray and pour ½ cup of water into the bottom for steaming. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes to begin the warming process.
Make the Glaze: Meanwhile, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns golden. Stir in the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and ground cloves, and mix until well combined and dissolved. Lower the heat and add the smashed garlic cloves. Let it simmer gently, then cool until it’s lukewarm.
Increase Temperature: After 30 minutes, raise the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). Remove the ham, unveil it, and generously brush with ⅓ of the glaze. Place it back in the oven uncovered for 15 minutes.
Glaze Again: After the first 15 minutes, apply another ⅓ of the glaze along with some pan juices. Repeat this process after another 15 minutes, basting until a beautifully golden brown crust forms. If the crust remains pink, broil for 2-5 minutes, but keep a close watch!
Rest & Slice: Once done, allow your ham to rest for 10-20 minutes before slicing. This ensures the juices redistribute, keeping every slice moist and flavorful.

Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an elegant touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham

Glaze Freshness: Don’t overcook the glaze; if it hardens, your Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham won’t get that delightful caramelized crust.
Basting Magic: Always include pan juices when basting; this adds to the flavor depth and keeps your ham succulent.
Meat Thermometer Essential: Utilize a meat thermometer to ensure a safe internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) for perfectly cooked ham.
Fat is Friend: Avoid trimming too much fat from the ham; this natural moisture helps create a juicy texture and enhances crust formation.
Spicing It Up: Feel free to experiment with different mustard or substitute garlic with shallots for a unique flavor twist that excites the palate!

Storage Tips for Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham

Fridge: Store leftover ham tightly wrapped in plastic or foil in the refrigerator for up to one week. Make sure it’s properly sealed to maintain moisture and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze sliced ham in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. This preserves the delicious taste and texture of your Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in a 325°F (160°C) oven covered with foil until heated through. Add a splash of water to keep it moist if needed.

Ham Bone: Don’t forget about the bone! Store it in the freezer, and use it to flavor soups or stocks later, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham Variations

Feel free to mix things up and create your very own spin on this delightful dish!

Maple Syrup: Substitute half of the honey for pure maple syrup for a rich, earthy sweetness.
Spiral Ham: Use a spiral-cut ham for easy slicing and extra glaze absorption, ensuring a moist and flavorful experience.
Citrus Zest: Add the zest of an orange or lemon to the glaze for a refreshing burst of flavor that brightens the overall dish.
Pineapple Juice: Mix in a splash of pineapple juice with the glaze; it adds sweetness and a tropical twist that’s simply irresistible.
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into the glaze for a deeper, smoky flavor that complements the ham beautifully.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy some heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicy surprise.
Herb Infusion: Fresh thyme or rosemary can be added to the glaze, infusing it with aromatic herbal notes that uplift the ham’s flavors.
Nutty Crunch: Top the glaze with chopped pecans or walnuts during the last 15 minutes of baking for a delightful crunch and complex texture.

What to Serve with Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham?

The feast doesn’t end with the ham; let’s create a memorable meal that delights everyone at your table.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These smooth, buttery potatoes soak up the delicious glaze, creating a comforting and indulgent side dish that pairs perfectly.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of these caramelized veggies complements the sweet glaze, while their crispy texture adds contrast to the tender ham.
Honey-Balsamic Carrots: Sweet, roasted carrots drizzled with honey and balsamic bring balance and a vibrant pop of color, enhancing the meal’s overall appeal.
Garlic Green Beans: These sautéed green beans add a fresh crunch and aromatic flavor, making them a delightful counterpoint to the richness of the ham.
Classic Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing create a refreshing side that offsets the savory sweetness of the ham beautifully.
Homemade Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy rolls are perfect for sopping up extra glaze or juices from the ham, offering that warm, homemade touch that everyone loves.
Cranberry Sauce: A tart and sweet companion, its brightness cuts through the richness of the glazed ham, making each bite more joyful.
Sparkling Cider: For drinks, serve chilled sparkling cider, which also offers a festive flair that complements the flavors of your holiday celebration.
Pumpkin Pie: End the meal on a sweet note with classic pumpkin pie; its warm spices echo the flavors of the holiday season, leaving everyone satisfied.

Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting a ham?
Absolutely! When choosing a ham, opt for a bone-in, fully cooked variety that weighs between 8-10 pounds for maximum flavor. Look for one with minimal blemishes and a nice, even marbling of fat, which will keep the meat juicy during cooking. If you’re considering a spiral cut ham, ensure it’s well-packaged to maintain moisture.

How do I store leftover Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham?
Very! Leftover ham should be tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or foil to minimize exposure to air. Store in the refrigerator where it will stay fresh for up to one week. If you wish to keep it longer, transfer the slices into airtight containers or freezer bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Just remember to label your containers with the date so you can keep track of its freshness.

Can I freeze Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham?
Of course! To freeze your ham, begin by slicing it into meal-sized portions. Place each portion in a freezer bag or airtight container, squeezing out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Lay flat in the freezer, where it should stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What are some common issues when preparing ham, and how can I prevent them?
The main troubles you may encounter include a dry ham or overly hard glaze. To avoid a dry result, ensure you do not overcook your ham; use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). To prevent a hardened glaze, monitor it closely while simmering, as cooking it too long can cause it to stiffen. If you notice it’s becoming thick, remove it from heat!

Are there any dietary considerations for making this ham?
Yes, it’s essential to consider food allergies when preparing meals for family and friends. This recipe contains honey, which some may need to avoid. Always ask guests about any dietary restrictions beforehand. Furthermore, although this dish is delicious for humans, remember to keep it away from pets, particularly due to the high sodium content and certain spices that could be harmful to them.

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