Baked Ham with Brown Sugar Mustard Glaze

Baked Ham with Brown Sugar Mustard Glaze

Why This Recipe Works

This traditional baked ham uses a deep brown sugar crust paired with sharp mustard to create a sticky, caramelized glaze that enhances the natural saltiness of the ham without overpowering it. Slow baking keeps the meat moist while repeated glazing builds flavor and shine.

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Ingredients

Ham

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

• Whole cloves (optional, for traditional studding)

• ½ cup water or apple juice (for the roasting pan)

Brown Sugar Mustard Glaze

• 1 cup packed brown sugar

• ¼ cup Dijon mustard (or classic yellow mustard)

• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves (optional)

• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Ham

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).

2. Remove packaging, rinse ham briefly under cool water, and pat dry.

3. Place ham fat-side up on a rack in a roasting pan.

4. Score the surface in a diamond pattern about ½ inch deep.

5. Optional: Insert whole cloves at diamond intersections for a classic look and aroma.

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2. Make the Glaze

1. In a bowl or small saucepan, mix brown sugar, mustard, honey, vinegar, and spices.

2. Warm gently (do not boil) until smooth and spreadable.

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3. Bake the Ham

1. Add ½ cup water or apple juice to the bottom of the pan.

2. Cover loosely with foil.

3. Bake for 15–18 minutes per pound, until internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).

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4. Glaze and Caramelize

1. During the final 30–45 minutes, remove foil.

2. Brush glaze generously over the ham every 10–15 minutes.

3. Allow glaze to melt, thicken, and form a deep golden-brown crust.

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5. Rest and Slice

1. Remove ham from oven and let rest 15–20 minutes.

2. Slice against the grain and spoon pan juices over the meat.

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Chef Tips for Best Results

• Mustard Choice: Dijon adds sophistication; yellow mustard gives a nostalgic, classic flavor.

• Prevent Burning: If glaze darkens too quickly, tent loosely with foil.

• Extra Depth: Add 1 tablespoon bourbon or dark rum to the glaze.

• Moisture Trick: Place orange or pineapple slices beneath the ham while baking.

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Serving Suggestions

• Creamy mashed potatoes or scalloped potatoes

• Roasted carrots, sweet potatoes, or green beans

• Soft dinner rolls or cornbread

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Storage & Leftovers

• Refrigerate leftovers up to 5 days

• Excellent for sandwiches, ham biscuits, omelets, or soups

OTHER RECIPES

Ingredients

• 1 (12-pound) shankless skinless smoked cured ham
• Whole cloves for studding ham
• 1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup prepared mustard
• 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
• Variation: GLAZED HAM STEAK WITH BROWN SUGAR MUSTARD GLAZE
• 1 to 2-inch Ham Steak
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup prepared mustard
• 2 tablespoons cider vinegar

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Score top of ham into diamonds and stud center of each diamond with a clove. 

Place ham on a rack in a roasting pan and bake for 1 1/2 hours. 

In a bowl combine the sugar, mustard and vinegar and spread glaze evenly over ham. 

Bake for another 35 minutes Transfer ham to a platter and let stand 15 minutes before carving.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Combine cloves, sugar and mustard and brush over Ham Steak. 

Bake in baking dish in 350 degree oven for 15 minutes until heated through. Enjoy it!

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