Brown Sugar Mustard Baked Ham Recipe

Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your humble ham into a centerpiece of flavor and delight! As someone who’s always on the hunt for recipes that are both impressive and approachable, I stumbled upon this Brown Sugar Mustard Baked Ham recipe, and let me tell you, it’s been a game-changer in my kitchen. The first time I made it, my family practically devoured it, raving about the perfect balance of savory ham, tangy mustard, and the sweet, caramelized glaze. Even my pickiest eater, who usually shies away from anything “too fancy,” couldn’t get enough. This recipe is not just delicious; it’s incredibly easy to put together, making it ideal for busy weeknights or elegant holiday gatherings. The simple yet brilliant combination of brown sugar, whole grain and Dijon mustards, and a touch of Coca-Cola creates a glaze that’s both deeply flavorful and beautifully glossy. Prepare to be amazed at how effortlessly this recipe elevates a simple ham into something truly special.

Ingredients

This Brown Sugar Mustard Baked Ham recipe boasts a short and sweet list of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building layers of flavor and ensuring a moist and tender final product. Let’s delve into each component and understand why they are essential for creating ham perfection.

• 1 10-pound Spiral Cut Ham: The star of our show! A spiral cut ham is highly recommended for this recipe because its pre-sliced nature allows the flavorful glaze to penetrate deeply and evenly throughout the meat. The spiral cut also makes serving a breeze, ensuring each slice is beautifully coated with the delicious brown sugar mustard mixture. When choosing your ham, opt for a good quality, bone-in ham for maximum flavor. A 10-pound ham is perfect for feeding a crowd of around 12 people, making it ideal for family gatherings or holiday feasts. You can find spiral cut hams in various flavors, such as hickory smoked or honey cured. While any spiral cut ham will work, a classic smoked ham provides a wonderful base flavor that complements the sweet and tangy glaze beautifully. If you’re working with a smaller or larger crowd, you can adjust the size of the ham accordingly, and proportionally adjust the glaze ingredients to ensure adequate coverage.
• ¾ Cup Brown Sugar: Brown sugar is the heart of our sweet and savory glaze, providing a rich, molasses-like sweetness that beautifully caramelizes during baking. The moisture content in brown sugar also contributes to the glaze’s sticky, luscious texture. We are using ¾ cup to strike the perfect balance of sweetness without overpowering the savory ham and tangy mustards. You can use either light or dark brown sugar for this recipe. Dark brown sugar will impart a slightly more intense molasses flavor, while light brown sugar will offer a milder sweetness. For this recipe, either will work wonderfully, so feel free to use whichever you have on hand or prefer. If you are looking to experiment, you could even try using a combination of brown sugar and maple sugar for a unique twist on the sweetness profile. For those watching their sugar intake, you could experiment with brown sugar substitutes like coconut sugar or a brown sugar alternative, but be mindful that the texture and caramelization might slightly differ.
• 2 Tablespoons Whole Grain Mustard: Whole grain mustard is a powerhouse of flavor and texture in this recipe. Its coarse texture and robust, slightly tangy flavor add depth and complexity to the glaze, contrasting beautifully with the sweetness of the brown sugar and the richness of the ham. The mustard seeds also provide little bursts of flavor and visual appeal to the finished dish. Two tablespoons of whole grain mustard are just the right amount to impart its distinct character without being overpowering. When selecting your whole grain mustard, look for one that contains visible mustard seeds and has a slightly coarse consistency. There are many varieties of whole grain mustard available, ranging in spiciness and flavor profiles. For this recipe, a classic whole grain mustard works best, but you can experiment with different types to find your personal favorite. For example, a German-style whole grain mustard might offer a slightly more robust flavor, while a French-style moutarde à l’ancienne would provide a more delicate and nuanced taste.
• 1 Tablespoon Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard brings a bright, sharp tang and a smooth, creamy texture to our glaze. Its pungent flavor cuts through the richness of the ham and the sweetness of the brown sugar, creating a balanced and complex flavor profile. Dijon mustard also helps to emulsify the glaze, bringing all the ingredients together harmoniously. One tablespoon is the perfect amount to add its signature zing without making the glaze overly mustardy. When choosing Dijon mustard, opt for a classic, smooth Dijon mustard. There are also flavored Dijon mustards available, such as honey Dijon or horseradish Dijon, but for this recipe, a plain Dijon mustard will provide the best and most versatile flavor. If you prefer a milder mustard flavor, you can reduce the amount of Dijon mustard slightly, or substitute a portion of it with a milder yellow mustard.
• 1 Can (12 ounces) Coca-Cola: Coca-Cola might seem like an unexpected ingredient in a ham glaze, but trust me, it’s the secret weapon that adds a unique depth of flavor and helps create that irresistible sticky, glossy glaze. The cola’s sweetness complements the brown sugar, while its subtle acidity balances the richness of the ham and the tanginess of the mustards. The carbonation also helps to tenderize the ham during baking and contributes to the glaze’s beautiful sheen. A 12-ounce can of Coca-Cola is the perfect amount to add just the right touch of sweetness and complexity without being overly sugary. Classic Coca-Cola is the recommended choice for this recipe, but you can also experiment with other cola varieties, such as Diet Coke or Pepsi, although the flavor profile might slightly differ. Some cooks even use Dr. Pepper for a slightly spicier and more complex glaze. If you are not a fan of soda or prefer to avoid it, you can substitute the Coca-Cola with other liquids, such as pineapple juice, apple juice, or even chicken broth, although the flavor profile will be different and you might need to adjust the sweetness accordingly.

Instructions

Preparing this Brown Sugar Mustard Baked Ham is a breeze, even for novice cooks. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating a show-stopping dish that will impress your family and guests. Follow these detailed instructions for ham baking success:

1. Preheat Your Oven to 325°F (160°C): The first step to baking perfection is ensuring your oven is properly preheated. Setting the oven to 325°F (160°C) provides a gentle, consistent heat that will cook the ham through evenly without drying it out. Preheating is crucial because it ensures the ham starts cooking immediately when it enters the oven, promoting even cooking and preventing the ham from becoming tough. Use an oven thermometer to verify that your oven is accurately reaching the desired temperature. Oven temperatures can fluctuate, and an oven thermometer will ensure precise temperature control for optimal baking results.
2. Prepare the Ham for Baking: Take your 10-pound spiral cut ham and place it in a roasting pan, cut side down. Positioning the ham cut side down helps to keep it moist during baking, as the juices will naturally flow downwards. Before placing the ham in the pan, take a moment to trim any excess fat from the exterior of the ham. While a little fat is desirable for flavor and moisture, excessive fat can render out during baking and create unwanted grease. Use a sharp knife to carefully trim away any thick layers of fat, leaving a thin layer for flavor. Choose a roasting pan that is appropriately sized for your ham. The pan should be large enough to comfortably hold the ham with some space around it for air circulation and to collect the pan juices. If you don’t have a roasting pan, you can use a large, oven-safe baking dish with sides.
3. Make the Brown Sugar Mustard Glaze: In a small mixing bowl, combine the ¾ cup of brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of whole grain mustard, and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Use a whisk or a fork to thoroughly mix the ingredients together until they are well combined and form a thick, slightly sticky paste. Ensure there are no lumps of brown sugar remaining. This simple glaze is the flavor powerhouse of our dish, so make sure it’s well mixed for even flavor distribution. Taste the glaze and adjust the seasonings to your preference. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, you can add a little more brown sugar. If you like a tangier glaze, you can add a touch more Dijon mustard.
4. Glaze the Ham and Add Coca-Cola: Gently pat the brown sugar mustard mixture evenly over the entire surface of the ham, ensuring all sides are well coated. Use your hands or a spatula to spread the glaze, pressing it lightly to help it adhere to the ham. Once the ham is glazed, pour the 12-ounce can of Coca-Cola into the bottom of the roasting pan, around the ham. Do not pour the cola directly over the ham, as this might wash away some of the glaze. The Coca-Cola will create steam during baking, helping to keep the ham moist and tender, and its flavor will infuse into the pan juices, creating a delicious basting liquid.
5. Cover and Bake: Tightly cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil, sealing it around the edges to create a steam environment. This step is crucial for keeping the ham moist and preventing it from drying out during the initial baking period. Ensure the foil is securely sealed to trap the steam inside the pan. Place the covered roasting pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes. Baking the ham covered for the majority of the cooking time allows it to cook through gently and evenly, while the steam keeps it incredibly moist.
6. Baste and Uncover for Final Baking: After 1 hour and 30 minutes of covered baking, carefully remove the roasting pan from the oven and remove the aluminum foil. Be cautious when removing the foil, as steam will escape. Using a baster or a spoon, generously baste the ham with the pan juices that have accumulated in the bottom of the pan. Basting the ham with the pan juices adds flavor and moisture, and helps to create a beautiful, glossy glaze. Return the uncovered roasting pan to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes. Baking uncovered for this final period allows the glaze to caramelize and become sticky and delicious, and helps the ham to develop a beautiful golden-brown color.
7. Second Baste and Final Bake: Remove the ham from the oven again and baste it a second time with the pan juices. Return the ham to the oven and continue to bake for a final 15 minutes. This second basting ensures the ham is thoroughly glazed and beautifully caramelized. The total uncovered baking time is 30 minutes, which is usually sufficient to achieve a perfectly glazed and browned ham. However, baking times can vary depending on oven variations and the size and type of ham. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham to ensure it is fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C) for a pre-cooked ham.
8. Rest Before Slicing and Serving: Once the ham is cooked through and beautifully glazed, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Resting is a crucial step in cooking ham, as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham. Do not skip the resting step! Cover the ham loosely with foil during the resting period to keep it warm. After resting, slice the ham from the bone, following the spiral cuts. Arrange the sliced ham on a serving platter. If desired, spoon some of the pan drippings over the sliced ham for extra flavor and moisture.
9. Serving and Storing Leftovers: Serve your Brown Sugar Mustard Baked Ham immediately while it’s warm and juicy. For serving suggestions, see the “How to Serve” section below. Store any leftover ham slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored leftover ham will keep for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Leftover ham is delicious cold or reheated. To reheat, you can gently warm the ham slices in a skillet, in the oven, or in the microwave. Avoid overheating, as this can dry out the ham.

Nutrition Facts

This recipe provides approximate nutritional information per serving. Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

• Servings: 12
• Calories: 66kcal (per serving)

It’s important to remember that this calorie count is likely for a very small serving size and doesn’t account for the ham itself, which is the primary ingredient. A more realistic calorie count for a standard serving of Brown Sugar Mustard Baked Ham would be significantly higher, depending on the size of the ham portion. Ham is a good source of protein and certain vitamins and minerals, but it is also relatively high in sodium and fat. The added brown sugar and Coca-Cola in this recipe contribute to the sugar and carbohydrate content. If you are following a specific dietary plan or have nutritional concerns, it’s always best to calculate the nutritional information based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use and your actual serving size. Enjoy this delicious ham in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Preparation Time

This Brown Sugar Mustard Baked Ham recipe is a winner when it comes to ease and speed of preparation. Perfect for busy cooks who want maximum flavor with minimal effort!

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes

The active prep time is incredibly short – just 10 minutes! This primarily involves measuring and mixing the glaze ingredients and trimming any excess fat from the ham. The majority of the time is hands-off cook time in the oven, allowing you to focus on other tasks while your delicious ham bakes to perfection. The total time of 2 hours and 10 minutes includes the baking time and a 15-minute resting period, which is essential for optimal tenderness and flavor. This recipe is a fantastic choice for holidays, special occasions, or even a satisfying weeknight dinner when you want a flavorful and impressive meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The quick prep time makes it easy to fit into even the busiest schedules, and the hands-off baking process allows you to relax or attend to other meal preparations while the oven does its magic.

How to Serve Brown Sugar Mustard Baked Ham

This Brown Sugar Mustard Baked Ham is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways, making it perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to elegant holiday feasts. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• Classic Holiday Feast:
  • Serve as the centerpiece of your holiday table, surrounded by classic sides like mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, sweet potato casserole, and cranberry sauce.
  • Pair with warm dinner rolls or biscuits for soaking up the flavorful pan juices.
  • Offer a selection of mustards and relishes on the side for guests to customize their ham slices.
• Sunday Supper Delight:
  • Make it a comforting Sunday supper with creamy scalloped potatoes, roasted asparagus or broccoli, and a fresh garden salad.
  • Serve with cornbread or buttermilk biscuits for a cozy and satisfying meal.
  • Follow up with a simple fruit cobbler or pie for dessert.
• Elegant Brunch or Luncheon:
  • Serve thinly sliced ham on a platter alongside a variety of breads, cheeses, and crackers for a sophisticated brunch or luncheon spread.
  • Include a selection of mustards, jams, and fruit preserves to complement the ham.
  • Add a fresh fruit salad and a light quiche or frittata for a complete brunch menu.
• Ham Sandwiches and Leftover Creations:
  • Use leftover ham to make delicious sandwiches on crusty rolls or sliced bread with your favorite condiments, cheese, and lettuce.
  • Create ham and cheese sliders for a party appetizer or casual meal.
  • Dice leftover ham and add it to quiches, omelets, frittatas, or breakfast casseroles.
  • Use it in pasta dishes, salads, or soups for added flavor and protein.
• Side Dish Pairings:
  • Potatoes: Mashed potatoes, scalloped potatoes, roasted potatoes, potato salad, au gratin potatoes
  • Vegetables: Green beans, asparagus, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, corn, peas, roasted root vegetables
  • Grains: Rice pilaf, quinoa, couscous, pasta salad
  • Salads: Garden salad, Caesar salad, coleslaw, fruit salad, pasta salad
  • Breads: Dinner rolls, biscuits, cornbread, crusty bread

Additional Tips for the Best Baked Ham

To ensure your Brown Sugar Mustard Baked Ham is a resounding success, here are five additional tips to keep in mind:

1. Don’t Overbake the Ham: Spiral cut hams are typically pre-cooked, so the goal is to reheat them and infuse them with flavor, not to cook them from raw. Overbaking can dry out the ham, making it tough and less enjoyable. Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature and remove the ham from the oven when it reaches 140°F (60°C). This will ensure a moist and tender ham.
2. Customize Your Glaze: While this brown sugar mustard glaze is fantastic as is, feel free to customize it to your liking. Experiment with different types of mustard, such as honey mustard or spicy brown mustard. Add a pinch of spices like cloves, cinnamon, or ginger to the glaze for a warmer flavor profile, especially during the holidays. You can also incorporate other sweeteners like maple syrup or honey in addition to or instead of brown sugar.
3. Use Pan Juices Wisely: The pan juices from baking the ham are liquid gold! They are packed with flavor and make an excellent basting liquid and serving sauce. Be sure to baste the ham regularly during the uncovered baking time to keep it moist and enhance the glaze. After baking, you can strain the pan juices and use them as a flavorful gravy to spoon over the sliced ham. If the pan juices are too thin, you can thicken them slightly by simmering them in a saucepan with a cornstarch slurry.
4. Let the Ham Rest Properly: As mentioned earlier, resting the ham after baking is crucial for tenderness and juiciness. Allowing the ham to rest for at least 15 minutes allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and moist final product. Don’t be tempted to slice into the ham immediately after removing it from the oven; patience pays off!
5. Make Ahead for Convenience: If you’re preparing this ham for a holiday or special occasion, you can save time by making the glaze ahead of time. The glaze can be mixed and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. On the day of baking, simply glaze the ham and proceed with the recipe instructions. This make-ahead tip can significantly streamline your meal preparation, especially when you have multiple dishes to prepare.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions and answers about making Brown Sugar Mustard Baked Ham:

Q1: Can I use a different type of ham for this recipe?
A: While a spiral cut ham is highly recommended for this recipe due to its ease of glazing and serving, you can use other types of pre-cooked ham, such as a shank ham or butt ham. However, keep in mind that the cooking time might need to be adjusted depending on the size and shape of the ham. Spiral cut hams are ideal because the glaze penetrates the slices easily. If using a non-spiral cut ham, you may want to score the surface lightly in a diamond pattern to help the glaze adhere and penetrate.

Q2: Can I make this recipe without Coca-Cola?
A: Yes, you can substitute the Coca-Cola with other liquids. Good alternatives include pineapple juice, apple juice, ginger ale, or even chicken broth. Keep in mind that the flavor profile will be different, and you may need to adjust the sweetness of the glaze accordingly. If using a less sweet substitute like chicken broth, you might want to add a bit more brown sugar to the glaze to compensate for the lost sweetness.

Q3: How do I store leftover baked ham?
A: Store leftover baked ham slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored ham will keep for 3-4 days. To prevent the ham from drying out, store it with a little of the pan juices or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. You can also freeze leftover ham for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in freezer wrap or place it in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While the ham is best served fresh, you can prepare components of this recipe in advance. The glaze can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. You can also bake the ham a day ahead and reheat it gently before serving. However, reheating may slightly affect the texture, so it’s best to bake and serve the ham on the same day if possible for optimal quality. If reheating, wrap the ham in foil with a little broth or water to help keep it moist.

Q5: What is the best way to reheat leftover baked ham?
A: There are several ways to reheat leftover baked ham:
* Oven: Wrap the ham slices in foil with a tablespoon of water or broth and bake at 325°F (160°C) until heated through.
* Skillet: Gently warm ham slices in a skillet over medium-low heat with a little butter or oil until heated through.
* Microwave: Microwave ham slices in short intervals, covered with a damp paper towel, until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can dry out the ham.
* Slow Cooker: Place ham slices in a slow cooker with a little broth or water and heat on low until warmed through. This is a great way to keep the ham moist and warm for serving at a buffet or potluck.

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