As the crisp air of the holiday season settles in, I find myself reminiscing about family gatherings filled with laughter, love, and the captivating smell of something sweet wafting through the kitchen. One particular memory is etched in my mind: the first time I brushed a homemade Orange-Brown Sugar Ham Glaze over a perfectly cooked ham. The delightful combination of citrus and warmth seemed to awaken my taste buds in a way that made every bite feel like a celebration.
This easy-to-make glaze is a game-changer for your holiday feast! It harmonizes the rich, earthy flavor of Dijon mustard and the rounded sweetness of brown sugar, resulting in a luscious coating that transforms even the simplest ham into a stunning centerpiece. With just a few ingredients like fresh orange juice, warm spices, and a hint of balsamic vinegar, you can create a festive touch that will have your guests asking for seconds. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s elevate your holiday dining experience!
Why is Orange-Brown Sugar Ham Glaze a must-try?
Irresistible sweetness: This glaze perfectly balances the rich flavors of brown sugar with the refreshing zest of fresh orange juice, making it the ideal complement to savory ham.
Effortless preparation: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can achieve a gourmet-level glaze in less than 20 minutes!
Versatile options: Feel free to customize with your favorite spices or alternative juices, like apple cider, for a unique twist.
Family favorite: This glaze not only elevates your holiday ham but also has wide appeal, ensuring everyone at the table will be reaching for seconds.
Make-ahead convenience: Prepare your glaze in advance, saving you time on the big day while ensuring maximum flavor. Try pairing this delightful glaze with traditional sides for a complete holiday feast!
Orange-Brown Sugar Ham Glaze Ingredients
For the Glaze
• Light Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and caramelization; swap for dark brown sugar for an even richer flavor.
• Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice – Serves as the citrus flavor base; pineapple juice makes a tasty alternative.
• Orange Zest (from 1 orange) – Enhances the citrus aroma; lemon zest offers a refreshing twist too.
• Honey – Provides additional sweetness and viscosity; maple syrup can easily take its place.
• Dijon Mustard – Adds earthy tang to balance sweetness; yellow mustard works in a pinch.
• Balsamic Vinegar – Contributes acidity and richness; apple cider vinegar can lighten the flavor profile.
• Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and spice; nutmeg will provide a different but delightful flavor note.
• Ground Cloves – Adds aromatic depth to the glaze; allspice can serve as a suitable substitute.
• Cornstarch – Ensures a thicker consistency for your glaze; use arrowroot powder if it’s on hand.
For Storage
• Airtight Container – Store your prepared glaze in this to keep it fresh for up to three days in the refrigerator.
This Orange-Brown Sugar Ham Glaze will not only enhance your holiday meal but also make your ham the star of the table!
How to Make Orange-Brown Sugar Ham Glaze
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Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan over medium heat, mix together light brown sugar, freshly squeezed orange juice and zest, honey, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves. Stir until everything is blended.
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Heat and Stir: Bring the mixture to a low boil, continuing to stir until the brown sugar is completely melted and the glaze becomes smooth and glossy, around 2-3 minutes.
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Prepare Cornstarch Mixture: Set aside ¼ cup of the mixture in a small bowl. Add cornstarch and whisk it until well combined—this will thicken the glaze.
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Whisk in Cornstarch: Gradually drizzle the cornstarch mixture into the bubbling glaze, whisking continuously. This will help achieve the perfect thickness.
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Cook to Thicken: Allow the glaze to cook for about 5 minutes, whisking until it reaches your desired consistency, which should be glossy and syrupy.
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Apply the Glaze: Generously brush the glaze over the cooked ham using a basting brush. Serve immediately for the best flavor.
Optional: For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle freshly grated orange zest on top before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Orange-Brown Sugar Ham Glaze?
Elevate your holiday meal with delightful side dishes that harmonize beautifully with this sweet and citrusy glaze.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the sticky, sweet glaze, making each bite a delight.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their natural bitterness balances the sweetness of the glaze, adding a pop of color and crunch to your plate.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: The sweetness complements the glaze, while their tender texture offers a delightful chew against the ham’s savory layers.
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Homemade Dinner Rolls: Soft and pillowy, these rolls are perfect for mopping up any leftover glaze, enhancing the overall experience of your meal.
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Green Bean Casserole: This classic side brings creaminess and crunch together, creating a lovely textural contrast with both the ham and glaze.
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Sparkling Apple Cider: A refreshing drink that echoes the fruity notes of the glaze, it’s an easy way to bring festive cheer to your table.
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Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of the sauce brightens the sweet flavors of the ham, creating a balanced burst of flavors on your holiday plate.
These pairings not only enhance the flavors of the ham but also create a warm, inviting holiday feast that family and friends will remember for years to come.
Expert Tips for Orange-Brown Sugar Ham Glaze
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Melt Brown Sugar: Ensure the brown sugar is completely melted while heating to avoid a grainy texture in your glaze for a smoother finish.
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Adjust Thickness: If the glaze thickens too much when cooled, gently reheat it and adjust the consistency with a splash of orange juice or water.
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Coating Technique: For a uniform coat, brush the glaze generously over the entire ham and allow the glaze to caramelize slightly in the oven for enhanced flavor.
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Spice Variation: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or fresh ginger for a unique twist on your Orange-Brown Sugar Ham Glaze.
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Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the glaze up to three days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to save time during busy holiday preparations.
How to Store and Freeze Orange-Brown Sugar Ham Glaze
Fridge: Store your Orange-Brown Sugar Ham Glaze in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps its flavor fresh and ready for your holiday feasts.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the glaze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until the glaze is heated through and reaches your desired consistency.
Make-Ahead Tip: Feel free to prepare the glaze ahead of time! Cooking it in advance will enhance the flavor and make your holiday preparations smoother.
Make Ahead Options
These Orange-Brown Sugar Ham Glaze preparations are perfect for busy holiday cooks looking to save time! You can make the glaze up to three days in advance by following this simple method: prepare the glaze as instructed, allow it to cool, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain its delicious quality, ensure the container is sealed tightly to keep out moisture. When you’re ready to use it, simply reheat the glaze gently on the stovetop, whisking it to bring back that smooth and glossy texture. This way, you’ll enjoy all the sweet, citrusy delight of the glaze with minimal effort on your special day!
Orange-Brown Sugar Ham Glaze Variations
Feel free to give your glaze a personal touch with these unique twists and substitutions that will make it even more delightful!
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Apple Cider: Swap orange juice for apple cider to create a comforting, autumn-inspired glaze that pairs perfectly with ham.
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Dijon Alternatives: Use spicy brown mustard for an extra kick, or try honey mustard for a sweet twist that everyone will love.
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Citrus Options: Replace orange zest and juice with lemon or grapefruit for a refreshing, zingy flavor that brightens your festive dish.
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Ginger Spice: Add a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger for a warm, aromatic nuance that enhances the glaze’s complexity.
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Bourbon Kick: Incorporate a splash of bourbon into the glaze while cooking for a rich, flavorful depth that’ll warm your spirits.
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Maple Sweetness: Swap honey with maple syrup for a uniquely sweet twist that reflects the flavors of the season.
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Herb Infusion: Add finely chopped fresh thyme or rosemary for an earthy herbal flavor that beautifully complements the sweetness.
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Heat Level: For a spicy touch, mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to wake up your taste buds.
Get ready to explore and make this glaze truly your own!
Orange-Brown Sugar Ham Glaze Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe oranges for this glaze?
Absolutely! When selecting oranges, look for ones that are firm and heavy for their size, with smooth skin that’s bright in color. Avoid any with dark spots or blemishes. Freshly squeezed juice from ripe oranges will provide the best flavor for your Orange-Brown Sugar Ham Glaze.
How should I store the Orange-Brown Sugar Ham Glaze?
To keep your glaze fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cool before sealing the container to prevent condensation. Reheat gently on the stovetop before using, stirring occasionally to maintain its smooth texture.
Can I freeze the Orange-Brown Sugar Ham Glaze?
Yes, you can freeze the glaze! Pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then gently reheat in a saucepan, stirring until it’s warmed through and reaches the desired consistency.
What should I do if my glaze turns out too thick?
Very! If your glaze thickens too much after cooling, don’t worry. Simply reheat the glaze over low heat in a saucepan and gradually whisk in a little bit of fresh orange juice or water until you achieve your preferred consistency. This step will bring it back to that silky-smooth texture.
Is this glaze safe for people with food allergies?
If allergies are a consideration, you can customize the ingredients to suit your needs. For instance, using local honey or maple syrup is an excellent alternative to standard honey if you have concerns. Always double-check with guests if they have allergies, especially with mustard and vinegar, and adjust accordingly to keep your Orange-Brown Sugar Ham Glaze safe for everyone to enjoy!
Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! I often make it a day or two before the holiday. Simply follow the recipe, allow it to cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Making it ahead not only saves you time but also lets the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the taste when you finally brush it over the ham!
Irresistible Orange-Brown Sugar Ham Glaze for Your Holidays
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, mix together light brown sugar, freshly squeezed orange juice and zest, honey, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves. Stir until everything is blended.
- Bring the mixture to a low boil, continuing to stir until the brown sugar is completely melted and the glaze becomes smooth and glossy, around 2-3 minutes.
- Set aside ¼ cup of the mixture in a small bowl. Add cornstarch and whisk until well combined.
- Gradually drizzle the cornstarch mixture into the bubbling glaze, whisking continuously.
- Allow the glaze to cook for about 5 minutes, whisking until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Generously brush the glaze over the cooked ham using a basting brush. Serve immediately.
- For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle freshly grated orange zest on top before serving.