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Brown Sugar Glazed Baked Ham: A Sweet Delight for Any Occasion

Ah, the classic Brown Sugar Glazed Baked Ham! If you’ve been scrambling for a dish that wows at every gathering and still manages to be easy on your busy schedule, look no further. This recipe is your golden ticket to turning mealtime into a celebration. Picture this: as the ham bakes, your kitchen fills with an aroma that could make anyone forget their worries and feel right at home. Whether it’s a holiday feast, a family gathering, or just a cozy Sunday dinner, this dish is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Brown Sugar Glazed Baked Ham

Let’s be real; we all want those recipes that make us look like culinary rock stars without requiring a PhD in cooking. This brown sugar glazed ham provides just that! With its delightful sweet glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, this ham comes out juicy and tender every single time. Plus, it’s a one-stop showstopper—no need for a million side dishes to impress your guests. Got picky eaters? Don’t worry; this recipe is a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients for Success

Before we dive into the magic of baking this ham, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 fully cooked ham (about 8-10 pounds)
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves (or if you’re feeling wild, go for a pinch more!)

Now that we’ve got our shopping list, let’s make some kitchen magic happen!

Steps to Ham-tastic Success

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (or 160°C if you’re feeling fancy).

2. Prep the ham: Place the ham, flat side down, in a roasting pan. Make sure you lay it out nicely—you want it to look like the star it is!

3. Create the glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and cloves. Stir until you have a lovely, glossy mixture. Honestly, it should look like the kind of syrup you dream about pouring over pancakes.

4. Apply the glaze: Brush the glaze all over the ham, ensuring you get into those delicious crevices. Feel free to use your hands; it’s your kitchen, after all! Save a little glaze to drizzle on during the last 30 minutes of cooking for that extra caramelized goodness.

5. Bake it to perfection: Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and pop it into the oven. Bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). You’ll want to uncover it for the last 30 minutes to let that sugar work its magic!

6. Rest and serve: Once done, allow the ham to rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. Your kitchen now smells like a sweet haven, and your family will be lining up!

Cooking Tips

• Ham again (or leftovers): If you find yourself with leftovers, rejoice! This ham is just as delicious the next day. Try making sandwiches or adding it to a breakfast scramble. You might even want to explore other recipes using ham, like my Savory Ham and Cheese Quiche.

• Going for glitz: If you’re feeling fancy, add a splash of orange juice or zests for some zing in the glaze. Take that, ordinary ham!

• Don’t panic: If your glaze looks a little lumpy, don’t worry! It’s all part of the baking magic. Trust the process!

A Personal Touch

I first made this dish for a family gathering, and let me tell you, it was a hit! My kids were practically doing high-fives over ham slices (which shows you just how good it is). Plus, the compliments I received from family still echo in my kitchen—charming, right?

FAQs About Your Brown Sugar Glazed Baked Ham

Can I substitute the brown sugar?
Absolutely! If you’re in a pinch, light or dark brown sugar both work splendidly. You can even experiment with maple syrup for a slightly different flavor!

How do I store leftovers?
Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and pop it in the fridge for up to a week. Just reheat it gently to maintain that juicy goodness.

Can I use a different type of ham?
Of course! While this recipe is divine with a traditional spiral ham, feel free to use your favorite variety—cooked ham, bone-in, or even a ham steak will work!

Now that you have the recipe for this Brown Sugar Glazed Baked Ham, get ready to savor every bite! As you carve those slices, remember it’s not just about the meal—the laughter, memories, and flavors that come together make it all worthwhile. Next time you have a gathering, wow your guests with this dish, and trust me, they’ll be raving long after the last bite. Happy cooking, friends!

Meta Description: Brown Sugar Glazed Baked Ham is the perfect recipe for busy occasions. Quick, easy, and utterly delicious, this dish will delight your family!