Sugar Baked Ham
A sweet and savory ham glazed with brown sugar and lemon, finished with a golden crust that caramelizes beautifully. Ideal for holiday feasts or a comforting family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim rind and fat off ham.
- Score ham in a crisscross fashion and
- Put sugar onto ham.
- Bake 15 minutes per pound. If the sugar crust becomes too brown, cover with foil.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter glaze, consider mixing in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard with the brown sugar; it adds a nice tang. If you don't have lemon juice, apple cider vinegar can work as a substitute. Make sure to baste the ham periodically while baking to keep it moist. If you want a spicier flavor, adding ground cloves or cinnamon to the sugar mixture can enhance the dish. This recipe pairs wonderfully with Grandma'S Sweet And Sauerkraut.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sugar baked ham with sides like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete meal. It also pairs well with something refreshing like a green salad. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside spiced crab apples for a sweet contrast. This dish is perfect for holiday gatherings and can be complemented with a rich cheese dip like Something Special-Hot Cheese Dip.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sugar baked ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, wrap slices in foil and place in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps keep the ham moist. For longer storage, consider freezing the ham in slices for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sugar Baked Ham contains roughly 82 calories, with 1g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of ham for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of pre-cooked ham, such as a spiral-cut ham or a bone-in ham. Just adjust the baking time according to the weight. The key is to ensure it's heated through without drying out, so keep an eye on the sugar crust to prevent it from burning.
How can I enhance the flavor of the sugar glaze?
You can add spices such as ground cloves, nutmeg, or allspice to the brown sugar for more depth. Additionally, mixing in a bit of honey or maple syrup with the brown sugar can create a richer glaze. Just be careful not to overdo it, as you want to maintain the balance of sweetness.
What should I serve with sugar baked ham?
Sugar baked ham pairs beautifully with traditional sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a green salad. You might also consider serving it with baked beans or cornbread for a hearty meal. For a delightful twist, include spiced crab apples or a fruit chutney to complement the sweetness of the ham.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).