There’s something truly special about gathering around a beautifully glazed smoked ham, where the sweet aroma of brown sugar and fragrant notes of apple cider fill the air. I came across this Smoked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze recipe during a cozy family dinner prep, and it instantly became a favorite. It’s the perfect blend of smoky richness and sweet caramelization that makes any meal feel like a celebration.
The preparation takes a bit of patience, but trust me—it’s worth every minute as it transforms a simple ham into an unforgettable centerpiece. I love the way the glaze clings to the tender meat, creating a glossy finish that has everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or just looking to elevate a weekend gathering, this recipe is both easy to master and impressive to serve. Grab your smoker and let’s dive into this mouthwatering journey!
Why is Smoked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze a Must-Try?
Simplicity: With just 10 minutes of prep, you can elevate any meal.
Delectable Flavor: The fusion of sweet brown sugar and smoky ham creates a taste sensation everyone will love.
Showstopper: Impress your guests with a dish that looks as good as it tastes—perfect for gatherings!
Versatility: Great for holidays, BBQs, or a cozy family dinner.
Time-Saving: Slow-smoked goodness without fuss—just set it and enjoy.
Crowd-Pleaser: Generously serves up to 10, ensuring there’s plenty for everyone.
Smoked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze Ingredients
For the Ham
• 7 lbs bone-in ham – A bone-in ham offers richer flavor and moisture during smoking.
• 1/3 cup BBQ rub – This adds a delightful spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the glaze.
For the Glaze
• 1/2 cup butter – Ensures the glaze is rich and silky as it coats the ham.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar – The star of the glaze, providing that signature sweetness.
• 1/4 cup maple syrup – Adds depth and complexity to the glaze, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• 2 1/4 cups apple cider – A key ingredient that balances the sweetness and infuses a fruity note.
Garnish and Preparation
• Fresh herbs and fruit – A beautiful garnish that adds color and freshness, elevating the presentation.
• Cooking spray – Prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup of your disposable aluminum pan.
How to Make Smoked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze
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Preheat your smoker to 250°F. Start by loading it with cherry wood chips to infuse a delightful smoky flavor that perfectly complements the ham.
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Coat a disposable aluminum pan with cooking spray. This will help prevent the ham from sticking and make cleanup a breeze—always a bonus!
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Sprinkle the BBQ rub all over the exterior of the ham. Make sure to cover every bit so that the spices can marry beautifully with the smoky flavors during cooking.
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Place the pan with the ham in the smoker and let it cook for one hour. Resist the urge to open the smoker door too often—this ensures consistent heat and that gorgeous smoky flavor!
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Continue to smoke the ham for another 2-3 hours, basting it every 30-45 minutes with the 2 cups of apple cider. This adds moisture and enhances the flavor as it cooks.
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Check the temperature. The ham is done when a thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 140°F. This ensures your ham is juicy and safe to eat!
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Make the glaze while the ham is smoking. Combine the butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, and remaining 1/4 cup of apple cider in a pan over medium heat.
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Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the glaze has just thickened. You want a luscious consistency that will coat the ham beautifully!
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Brush the glaze all over the ham once it’s done smoking. Transfer the ham to a platter and garnish with fresh herbs and fruit to make it extra special before serving.
Optional: Drizzle extra maple syrup over the top for an added touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Smoked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keeping the ham moist and ready for your next meal.
Freezer: Wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to freeze for up to 2 months; this preserves flavors and prevents freezer burn.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a covered dish at 325°F until heated through, basting with additional apple cider to restore moisture.
Leftover Uses: Transform leftover smoked ham with brown sugar glaze into hearty sandwiches or savory omelets for delightful meals all week long!
Smoked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze Variations
Embrace your culinary creativity by exploring these exciting twists to the smoky, sweet masterpiece!
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Maple-Whiskey Glaze:
Substitute maple syrup with whiskey to add a delightful depth and new flavor dimension. The blend of sweetness and a touch of warmth elevates the taste! -
Honey Mustard Kick:
Swap out half of the brown sugar for honey and mix in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard. This gives a tangy zing that balances perfectly with the sweet glaze. -
Spicy Cajun Twist:
Use a Cajun spice blend in place of the BBQ rub for a bold, spicy flavor. The heat from the spices will elevate your ham and tantalize your taste buds. -
Herb Infusion:
Add crushed rosemary or thyme to your glaze for an aromatic herbal note. These fresh flavors will enhance the overall profile and offer a delightful aroma as it cooks. -
Pineapple Surprise:
Incorporate crushed pineapple into the glaze mixture for a tropical sweetness. The fruity notes combined with the savory ham create a harmonious flavor explosion. -
Brown Sugar Splendor:
Use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar for a richer caramel flavor that gives your glaze an even more luxurious texture and taste. -
Fruity Fusion:
Add diced apples or pears to the basting mixture for a fruity element that complements the glaze. This combination makes each bite a burst of sweet deliciousness. -
Smoky Chipotle Heat:
Blend in some chipotle powder into the BBQ rub to add a smoky heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweet glaze. Just a little will give your ham a kick that’s sure to impress!
Tips for the Best Smoked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze
Perfect Temperature: Make sure your smoker is maintained at 250°F for that ideal slow smoking, which tenderizes the ham and intensifies flavors.
Baste Often: Basting with apple cider every 30-45 minutes prevents the ham from drying out and locks in moisture, enhancing the taste of your smoked ham with brown sugar glaze.
Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on your internal temperature; once it reaches 140°F, remove it from the smoker to prevent drying.
Rest Before Slicing: Let the ham rest for at least 15 minutes post-smoking. This allows juices to redistribute for a more succulent slice.
Customize Glaze: Feel free to experiment with the glaze by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a unique twist that suits your taste!
Make Ahead Options
These Smoked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze preparations are a fantastic way to save time, especially for busy home cooks! You can season the ham with the BBQ rub and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap up to 24 hours in advance, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, you can prepare the glaze and refrigerate it for up to 3 days; just reheat it gently before using. When you’re ready to smoke the ham, simply place it in the preheated smoker and follow the cooking instructions. This way, you can enjoy a delicious, stress-free meal while keeping quality high—your ham will be just as delightful as if it were made fresh!
What to Serve with Smoked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze?
Elevate your mealtime experience with delightful sides that complement the sweet and smoky essence of this show-stopping ham.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness of mashed potatoes balances the sweet glaze, offering a comforting contrast that everyone adores.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonally roasted veggies provide a delightful crunch and a dose of color to your plate, enhancing the overall meal aesthetic.
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Apple Cider Salad: Fresh greens tossed with apple slices and a tangy vinaigrette echo the flavors in your ham, offering a refreshing bite to round out the meal.
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Dinner Rolls: Soft, pillowy rolls are perfect for soaking up extra glaze and apple cider drippings, making each bite delightful.
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Green Bean Almondine: The nuttiness of toasted almonds paired with crisp green beans adds texture and complements the savory notes of your smoked ham beautifully.
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Sweet Potato Casserole: With a hint of sweetness and a crunchy topping, this dish brings warmth to your table, harmonizing perfectly with the brown sugar glaze.
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Sparkling Cider: Enhance the meal’s theme with glasses of sparkling cider, an excellent beverage pairing that ties it all together with a refreshing fizz.
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Chocolate Cake: To finish off your feast, indulge in a rich chocolate cake, which lends a decadent contrast to the sweetness of the ham, creating a truly memorable ending.
Smoked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ham for this recipe?
When selecting a ham, look for a bone-in option, as it tends to be more flavorful and juicier during the smoking process. I recommend checking for a uniform color and avoiding any with dark spots all over, which can indicate spoilage. Always choose the freshest ham available for the best results!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover smoked ham in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, you ensure that it stays moist and flavorful for your next meal. If you prefer, you can also freeze it. Just wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, keeping it good for up to 2 months!
Can I freeze smoked ham with brown sugar glaze?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the ham to cool completely after cooking. Then, slice it (if desired) or leave it whole, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and place it in the freezer. This method will keep your delicious ham safe for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat at 325°F!
What should I do if my ham is drying out during cooking?
No worries! If you notice your ham drying out, it’s crucial to baste every 30-45 minutes with apple cider throughout the smoking process. This infuses moisture back into the meat and helps it stay juicy. If needed, you can also increase the humidity in your smoker by adding a water pan.
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Indeed! Check your BBQ rub and ensure it’s gluten-free. Other ingredients like brown sugar, maple syrup, and apple cider are typically gluten-free, making this smoked ham a great option for those with gluten sensitivities. Just be cautious when selecting garnishes or side dishes to keep the meal entirely gluten-free!
Smoked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze for a Flavorful Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your smoker to 250°F and load it with cherry wood chips.
- Coat a disposable aluminum pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Sprinkle the BBQ rub all over the exterior of the ham, covering it entirely.
- Place the pan with the ham in the smoker and let it cook for one hour.
- Continue to smoke the ham for another 2-3 hours, basting every 30-45 minutes with apple cider.
- Check the ham's temperature; it is done when it reaches 140°F.
- Make the glaze by combining butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, and remaining apple cider in a pan.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 6-8 minutes until thickened.
- Brush the glaze over the ham, transfer to a platter, and garnish before serving.