Honey Baked Ham w/ Orange-Brown Sugar Glaze, the star of so many holiday tables, brings back memories of family gatherings, laughter echoing through the house, and the irresistible aroma of sweet and savory goodness filling the air. Each slice of this Honey Baked Ham w/ Orange-Brown Sugar Glaze is a reminder of those cherished moments and the traditions we hold dear. It’s more than just a meal: it’s a symbol of togetherness and joy. Let’s create some new memories!
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Why You Will Love This Honey Baked Ham w/ Orange-Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe
This recipe is more than just delicious: it’s surprisingly easy to make, filling your kitchen with the most wonderful aroma! The combination of sweet honey, bright orange, and rich brown sugar creates a glaze that's both comforting and exciting. It's the perfect balance of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
This Honey Baked Ham w/ Orange-Brown Sugar Glaze is the ultimate holiday showstopper. It transforms a simple ham into a gourmet delight, elevating any holiday feast. Plus, it’s easy enough to prepare even on a busy holiday! And the cleanup is a breeze, leaving you more time to spend with your loved ones. The flavors are just unforgettable. Follow us on Pinterest for more delicious Food: Holidays recipes!
Ingredients Needed for This Honey Baked Ham w/ Orange-Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe
Here are the ingredients you'll need to create this delectable Honey Baked Ham w/ Orange-Brown Sugar Glaze. Be sure to gather everything before starting, so it's easy to create holiday magic!
- One fully cooked bone-in ham (8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup honey
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

How to Make This Honey Baked Ham w/ Orange-Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe
Follow these simple steps, and soon, you'll have a Honey Baked Ham w/ Orange-Brown Sugar Glaze that’s sure to impress!
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Place a rack in the center of the oven.
- Remove the ham from its packaging and discard any glaze packet that may be included. Place the ham in a large roasting pan. If your ham has a rind, score it in a diamond pattern. This helps the glaze penetrate better.
- In a medium saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, orange juice, Dijon mustard, orange zest, cloves, and cinnamon. Whisk together until well combined.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly until the brown sugar is completely dissolved and the glaze is smooth. This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Brush about half of the glaze evenly over the ham, ensuring all surfaces are covered.
- Bake the ham for approximately 10-12 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Baste the ham with the remaining glaze every 20 minutes during the last hour of cooking. This will help create a beautiful, glossy finish.
- Once the ham reaches 140°F (60°C), remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before carving. Tent it loosely with foil to retain the heat. While the ham is baking, be sure to check out recipes for Food: Holidays. I recommend my Baked Ham And Cheese Sliders for a quick and easy leftover ham recipe. If there is leftover ham, you can make Pig Shots Oven Baked Recipe 2! You could also make Pig Shots Oven Baked Recipe.
- Carve the ham and serve. Serve with the pan drippings for extra flavor.
How to Serve This Honey Baked Ham w/ Orange-Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe
Serving this Honey Baked Ham w/ Orange-Brown Sugar Glaze is an art in itself!
- Serving Tips: Carve the ham thinly and arrange it attractively on a platter.
- Pairing Ideas: Serve with classic holiday sides like mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and sweet potato casserole.
- Topping Recommendations: Garnish with orange slices, fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, or a sprinkle of chopped pecans.
- Plating Ideas: For an elegant presentation, arrange the ham slices around a decorative bowl of cranberry sauce or a vibrant green salad.
How to Store This Honey Baked Ham w/ Orange-Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe
Proper storage is key to enjoying your Honey Baked Ham w/ Orange-Brown Sugar Glaze for days to come.
- Refrigeration Instructions: Wrap leftover ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing Guidelines: For longer storage, slice the ham and freeze it in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months.
- Reheating Tips: Reheat sliced ham in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little broth or water to prevent it from drying out. You can also reheat it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through.
- Shelf Life Information: Cooked ham can be safely refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
Tips to Make This Honey Baked Ham w/ Orange-Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe
Here are some tips to ensure your Honey Baked Ham w/ Orange-Brown Sugar Glaze turns out perfectly every time:
- Ingredient Swaps: If you don't have orange juice, apple juice or pineapple juice can be used as a substitute. Maple syrup can be used in place of honey.
- Success Tips: Don't skip scoring the ham. This allows the glaze to penetrate deeper and create a more flavorful crust.
- Common Mistakes to Avoid: Overbaking the ham can result in a dry, tough product. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the correct internal temperature.
- Pro Tips for Best Results: Let the ham rest before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham.
Helpful Notes for This Honey Baked Ham w/ Orange-Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe
Here are some extra details to help you create the perfect Honey Baked Ham w/ Orange-Brown Sugar Glaze.
- Extra Clarifications: Be sure to use a fully cooked ham, not a fresh ham, for this recipe. A fresh ham would require significantly longer cooking times.
- Ingredient Details: Look for a good quality honey with a rich, floral flavor. Local honey is always a great choice if you can find it.
- Equipment Recommendations: A roasting pan with a rack is essential for baking the ham. A meat thermometer is also highly recommended to ensure the ham is cooked to the correct temperature.
Variation of This Honey Baked Ham w/ Orange-Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe
Want to try something a little different? Here are some variations on this Honey Baked Ham w/ Orange-Brown Sugar Glaze recipe which are ideal for Food: Holidays!
- Seasonal Twists: During the fall, add a pinch of pumpkin pie spice to the glaze for a warm, autumnal flavor. In the spring, use mandarin oranges instead of regular oranges for a brighter twist.
- Optional Versions: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze.
- Creative Modifications: Instead of brushing the glaze on the ham, try injecting it with a marinade injector for an even more intense flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to bake a Honey Baked Ham with Orange-Brown Sugar Glaze?
Baking time depends on the size of your ham. Generally, you’ll want to bake it for about 10-12 minutes per pound at 325°F, making sure to baste it with the glaze regularly during the last 30 minutes.
What is the best internal temperature for a Honey Baked Ham with Orange-Brown Sugar Glaze?
The ideal internal temperature for a fully cooked Honey Baked Ham with Orange-Brown Sugar Glaze is 140°F (60°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches this temperature for optimal safety and taste.
Can I make the Orange-Brown Sugar Glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Orange-Brown Sugar Glaze a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and gently reheat it before using to baste the ham.
What are some side dish suggestions to serve with Honey Baked Ham w/ Orange-Brown Sugar Glaze?
Classic side dishes like scalloped potatoes, green bean casserole, and cranberry sauce pair wonderfully with Honey Baked Ham. You can also opt for roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the ham.
Conclusion
This Honey Baked Ham w/ Orange-Brown Sugar Glaze is more than just a recipe: it's an invitation to create memorable moments with family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to be amazed by the incredible flavors. Let’s bring the magic of Food: Holidays to our tables. Remember to create a stunning and delicious Honey Baked Ham w/ Orange-Brown Sugar Glaze!
Honey Baked Ham w/ Orange Glaze: The BEST Holiday Recipe!

A delicious and easy Honey Baked Ham w/ Orange-Brown Sugar Glaze perfect for holidays and special occasions.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Nutrition:
Protein: 30g
Carbs: 18g
Fat: 15g
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup honey
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Place ham in roasting pan.
- Score the ham in a diamond pattern.
- Combine honey, brown sugar, orange juice, Dijon mustard, orange zest, cloves, and cinnamon in a saucepan.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until brown sugar is dissolved.
- Brush half of the glaze over the ham.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C), basting with remaining glaze every 20 minutes during the last hour.
- Let rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
- Carve and serve.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze.
- If you don’t have orange juice, apple juice or pineapple juice can be used.
- Maple syrup can be used in place of honey.


