Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Honey Orange Glaze

Name: Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Honey Orange Glaze
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 lb fully cooked boneless spiral cut ham; 1 cup apple cider; 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)

Author: Amelia Sinclair

Published: March 29, 2026

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Introduction to Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Honey Orange Glaze

There’s something magical about a centerpiece dish that captures everyone’s heart and taste buds. Enter my Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Honey Orange Glaze—a true showstopper for holidays or family gatherings. This recipe is a delightful harmony of sweet and savory, perfect for impressing your loved ones without wrapping yourself in a whirlwind of stress. It’s also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for busy days when you crave something comforting yet enjoyable. Get ready to soak in the compliments while enjoying a delicious meal that brings everyone together!

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

This Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Honey Orange Glaze is the ultimate solution for busy cooks like us, who still want to serve something extraordinarily delicious. It’s easy to whip up, requires minimal prep, and the flavors are simply out of this world! The glaze creates a beautiful caramelized crust that’s both sweet and savory, making it a dish that appeals to even the pickiest eaters. You’ll relish every bite!

Ingredients for Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Honey Orange Glaze

Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating that sweet and savory symphony in your Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Honey Orange Glaze. Here’s what you’ll need:

Fully cooked boneless spiral cut ham: This is your star! Choose a high-quality ham for the best flavors.
Apple cider: Adds a nice tang and depth to the glaze, enhancing the whole dish.
Low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the dish moist and adds savory notes without overwhelming the flavor of the ham.

Orange marmalade: This sweet spread brings that delightful citrus sweetness and a glossy finish to your glaze.
Honey: Nature’s sweetener! It pairs beautifully to boost the glaze’s overall sweetness.
Brown sugar: The brown sugar caramelizes beautifully, adding richness and depth to the glaze.

Dijon mustard: Just a hint of tanginess that balances out the sweetness, creating a complex flavor profile.
Unsalted butter: For a luxurious, rich mouthfeel that rounds out the glaze nicely.
Orange (zest and juice): Fresh zest brightens up your glaze, while the juice adds juiciness to the mix.

Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish, balancing sweetness with a savory touch.
Ground black pepper: For a bit of warmth in the background, spice it up just a notch!
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who enjoy a little kick, they’re a great addition to the glaze.

Fresh thyme sprigs (optional): For a touch of herbal freshness that elevates the dish even further.

Measurements for each ingredient can be found at the end of this article, making it easy for you to print and use while cooking. Gather these ingredients, and let’s get started on a culinary adventure you won’t forget!

How to Make Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Honey Orange Glaze

Let’s dive into the delightful journey of making this Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Honey Orange Glaze. Each step is a chance to infuse your kitchen with wonderful aromas and earn the admiration of your family. Follow along, and you’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create such an impressive dish!

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

The first step is crucial—preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This not only helps cook the ham evenly, but it also gets that glaze bubbling beautifully right from the get-go. Think of it as warming up the stage before the star performance. Your ham deserves the best!

Step 2: Prepare the Ham

Grab that fully cooked boneless spiral cut ham and place it flat-side down in a large unlined roasting pan fitted with a rack. This positioning is key for even cooking and helps the glaze penetrate every crevice. Pour the apple cider and low-sodium chicken broth into the bottom of the pan. This liquid creates steam, keeping your ham moist while absorbing those wonderful flavors.

Step 3: Make the Glaze

Time to whip up that heavenly glaze! In a small saucepan, combine orange marmalade, honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, unsalted butter, orange zest, and juice. Add salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of excitement. Simmer this delightful mixture over low heat, stirring for about 10-15 minutes until it’s smooth and glossy. The key here is to achieve a lovely thick consistency—think liquid sunshine for your ham!

Step 4: First Bake

Brush one-third of that luscious glaze over the ham and then tent it loosely with foil. Why tent it? This keeps moisture in while it bakes for the first 1 hour and 30 minutes. It’s like giving your ham a cozy blanket, allowing it to absorb all those flavors without drying out.

Step 5: Add a Second Coat of Glaze

Once the initial baking time is up, it’s time for round two! Remove the foil and spoon on another third of the glaze. This second coating is essential for building that stunning caramelized crust. Make sure to cover the ham evenly for that beautiful finish we all adore. Bake it uncovered for an additional 20-30 minutes, and watch that glaze work its magic!

Step 6: Broil for a Charred Finish

If you crave that charred, crispy finish, then broiling is your friend! Turn the oven to broil and keep a watchful eye on your ham for 2-3 minutes. Broiling can turn from perfect to burnt in a flash, so stay close. This step elevates your ham to a whole new level of deliciousness!

Step 7: Rest the Ham

After removing your glorious ham from the oven, resist the urge to slice it immediately. Tent it again with foil and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is juicy and full of flavor. Trust me, the wait is worth it!

Tips for Success

Always check the internal temperature of the ham; it should reach 140°F for safety.
If your glaze gets too thick, add a splash of apple cider to thin it out.

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, especially the orange zest and juice.
Adjust the spice level with red pepper flakes according to your family’s taste.
Save those delicious pan drippings to mix with the leftover glaze for serving!

Equipment Needed

Roasting pan: A large unlined roasting pan offers space for the ham. A disposable aluminum pan works too!
Rack: Use a wire rack to elevate the ham. If you don’t have one, make a makeshift rack with crumbled aluminum foil.

Small saucepan: Essential for making the glaze. A medium pot works just as well!

Basting brush: Helps spread the glaze evenly. If in a pinch, spoon it on!

Variations of Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Honey Orange Glaze

Spicy Kick: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the glaze for an exciting twist that balances the sweetness.
Citrus Medley: Combine orange marmalade with other citrus preserves like tangerine or grapefruit for a vibrant flavor explosion.

Maple Syrup Alternative: Substitute honey with maple syrup for an entirely new taste profile that still harmonizes beautifully with the orange.
Gluten-Free Option: Ensure your Dijon mustard and chicken broth are labeled gluten-free for a delicious, safe dish that meets dietary needs.
Herb-Infused: Experiment with adding a mix of fresh herbs like rosemary or sage to the glaze for a fragrant, herbal note.

Serving Suggestions for Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Honey Orange Glaze

Classic Sides: Serve with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a comforting pairing.
Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette balances the richness of the ham.
Festive Drinks: Pair with sparkling cider or a light white wine for a refreshing complement.

Beautiful Presentation: Garnish with orange slices and fresh thyme sprigs for a stunning table display.

FAQs about Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Honey Orange Glaze

You may have some burning questions as you embark on this culinary adventure. Here are a few FAQs to help guide you while making your Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Honey Orange Glaze.

Can I use a different type of ham?

Yes! While I love the flavor of a boneless spiral cut ham, you can use a bone-in ham or even a different variety. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary.

What can I substitute for apple cider?

If you don’t have apple cider, try using apple juice or even white grape juice. Both will infuse a nice flavor into the glaze while keeping it deliciously sweet.

How do I store leftovers?

To store leftovers, simply wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! Make the glaze a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and simply warm it up before spreading it on your ham. This can save you precious time on a busy day.

How do I reheat the leftover ham?

The best way to reheat ham is by placing it in a covered baking dish at 325°F (165°C) until the internal temperature reaches 140°F. Add a little juice or broth to keep it moist!

Final Thoughts

Creating this Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Honey Orange Glaze is an experience filled with joy and warmth. As the sweet aroma fills your kitchen, it transforms cooking from a chore to a heartfelt celebration. Every slice delivers a burst of flavor, bringing family and friends together around the table. Whether it’s a special holiday or a regular weeknight dinner, this dish showcases how simple ingredients can create cherished memories. I promise you’ll savor not just the ham, but the love that goes into it. Embrace the joy of cooking, and enjoy the delicious rewards with your loved ones!