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3-Ingredient Ham Glaze

3-Ingredient Ham Glaze

Discover how to make a delicious 3-ingredient ham glaze with brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and honey. Quick prep, shiny sticky finish, and full of flavor!
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Brown Sugar (1 Cup): Dark brown sugar works best here for its deep molasses flavor, but light brown sugar works great too. It’s what gives you that signature sticky, sweet coating.
  • Dijon Mustard (3 Tablespoons): The mild heat and acidity of Dijon cut through the richness of the sugar and the saltiness of the meat. (Yellow mustard or whole-grain mustard can work in a pinch!)
  • Honey or Pure Maple Syrup (1/3 Cup): Adds a glossy sheen and a rich depth of sweetness that helps the glaze stick directly to the surface.

Method
 

  1. Whisk the Glaze:

    In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and honey (or maple syrup). Whisk until smooth. It will feel thick, but as it heats up in the oven, it will loosen into a smooth, pourable syrup.

  2. Bake the Ham First:

    Bake your pre-cooked ham according to its package instructions (usually around 325°F / 165°C) covered with foil for most of the cooking time. Do not glaze at the very beginning, or the sugars will burn before the meat heats through!
Glaze and Caramelize
  1. Remove the ham from the oven and carefully strip off the foil.
  2. Generously brush or spoon half of your glaze all over the surface, making sure to get into any score marks or cuts.
  3. Return it to the oven uncovered for 15 minutes.
  4. Brush with the remaining glaze and bake for another 10–15 minutes until bubbly, sticky, and beautifully browned.

Notes

Pro Tip: If you want an extra-crispy, caramelized edge, switch your oven to Broil for the final 2 to 3 minutes. Just keep a close eye on it so the sugar doesn't burn!