Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

My Simple, Show-Stopping Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Weekends are for family, and that means delicious, easy meals that don't require hours in the kitchen. This Brown Sugar Glazed Ham recipe has become a staple in our home, perfect for everything from casual Sunday dinners to holiday gatherings. The best part? It's surprisingly simple to make, yet always impresses my family and friends.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. I often adjust it to fit the occasion and my family's preferences. Sometimes, I'll add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze for a warm, spiced flavor. Other times, I might swap out the orange juice for pineapple juice for a tropical twist. The possibilities are endless! The key is to start with a high-quality canned ham – I've had good results with Hormel, but any brand will do.

The slow cooking method in the crock-pot ensures the ham is incredibly tender and juicy. It's a hands-off process, allowing me to focus on other things while the delicious aroma fills my kitchen. The final baking stage with the brown sugar glaze adds that perfect touch of sweetness and caramelization, creating a beautiful and flavorful crust. This glaze is simple to make but elevates the dish to something truly special. The balance of sweet and savory is perfect, and the little bit of tang from the mustard adds a complexity that keeps everyone coming back for more.

This dish is more than just a meal; it's a testament to the power of simple ingredients and a little bit of creativity. It's a recipe that allows me to express my love for my family in a tangible way, showing them that even amidst a busy schedule, I can still create something delicious and memorable. It's a recipe that speaks volumes without saying a word, a silent declaration of love and care, all wrapped up in a perfectly glazed slice of ham.

I often serve this with simple sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, allowing the ham to truly shine. It's a complete meal that's perfect for any occasion, big or small. Whether it's a quiet family dinner or a bustling holiday gathering, this Brown Sugar Glazed Ham always delivers. And the best part? The cleanup is a breeze!

Tips and Tricks for Success:

• Don't be afraid to experiment with the glaze! Add different spices, juices, or even a touch of bourbon or maple syrup for a unique flavor profile.
• Adjust the baking time depending on the thickness of your ham slices and your preference for glaze consistency.
• Make extra glaze! The leftover glaze is fantastic drizzled over leftover ham sandwiches or used as a marinade for other meats.
• Prepare ahead of time. The ham can be slow-cooked in the crock-pot the day before, and the glaze can be made ahead as well. This simplifies the process significantly on the day you plan to serve.
• Presentation matters! Arrange the glazed ham slices attractively on a platter. It's a simple touch that elevates the entire meal.

This Brown Sugar Glazed Ham isn't just a recipe; it's a shortcut to creating a warm, inviting atmosphere at home. It's a reminder that even the simplest meals can be extraordinary with a little love and attention to detail. So, try this recipe, and I guarantee it will become a family favorite, just like it has for mine.

Ingredients You'll Need:

• 1 (24-ounce) can of ham (I use Hormel, but any brand works well)
• 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons prepared mustard
• 1 teaspoon orange juice (or your favorite juice!)

Step-by-step

• Remove the canned ham from the container and place in a crock pot on low for 6 to 8 hours.
• You may need to cut it into two pieces to get it to fit in the crock pot.
• When ready, remove the ham from the crock pot, and place it on a tray for slicing.
• Use a kitchen knife, slicer, or electric knife to slice the ham into equal pieces.
• You may decide to leave some of the ham unglazed for guests who prefer to skip the brown sugar flavor.
• In a small bowl, mix 1 cup of firmly packed brown sugar with 2 tablespoons of prepared mustard.
• Use about 1 teaspoon of orange juice to combine.
• Spread the glaze on the tops and bottoms of your sliced ham and place them in an appropriately-sized baking dish.
• Bake at 350 degrees for 10 to 20 minutes, depending on how thick you like the glaze.
• Remove your ham slices from the baking dish and arrange them in a pretty way on a platter.
• Pour any leftover glaze from the baking dish over your sliced ham on the platter.