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This Ham Glaze Recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy, featuring the rich flavor of brown sugar, the bright acidity of pineapple juice and apple cider vinegar, and a hint of mustard for depth. The glaze is beautifully spiced with a mix of warm spices and finished with fragrant thyme, creating a deliciously balanced coating that caramelizes to perfection, adding both flavor and a beautiful, glossy finish to your ham.

The Best Brown Sugar Ham Glaze Recipe
This brown sugar glaze is the best ham glaze recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and tartness, enhancing the flavors of literally anything you put it on without overpowering it. The brown sugar provides a rich, caramelized sweetness, while the pineapple juice and apple cider vinegar add a tangy, zesty kick, which balances the overall flavor profile. The touch of mustard brings a subtle heat, and the addition of thyme infuses a fresh, herbal note that ties everything together. It’s not just a glaze—it’s the finishing touch that will have your guests coming back for more. Simple to prepare and packed with layers of flavor, this glaze is the secret to making your holiday dishes truly unforgettable.

Ingredients for this Ham Glaze Recipe
Dark Brown Sugar: The foundation of the glaze, dark brown sugar brings a rich molasses flavor that gives the ham its signature sweetness.
Pineapple Juice: Not only does it add extra sweetness, but the acidity in pineapple juice also helps tenderize the meat, creating a juicy, flavorful ham.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a tangy sharpness that cuts through the sweetness, creating a well-balanced glaze. I prefer using whole-grain mustard for added texture and a rustic look!
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a bold, savory depth to the glaze. For the most intense flavor, use whole garlic cloves and smash them to release all the aromatic goodness.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This ingredient provides a necessary tang, balancing the sweetness with a delightful sharpness.
Thyme: Fresh thyme infuses the glaze with a bright, herbal note that enhances the other flavors, bringing complexity and depth to the overall taste.
Spices: Ground cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper bring warmth and a rich, aromatic flavor that elevates this glaze and takes it to the next level.
How to Make this Brown Sugar Glaze
Step 1. In a medium sauce pan, add the glaze ingredients.

Step 2. Bring the ingredients in the pan and bring to a boil. Once the glaze comes to a boil, reduce the heat and let the glaze simmer for 8-15 minutes or until it thickens and starts to become syrupy. Stir occasionally. Note, the glaze will continue to thicken as it cools.

Step 3. Pour the glaze in a serving boil and use it to make the best baked ham with brown sugar glaze recipe or use on other recipes.

Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar?
Can I use this brown sugar glaze for other recipes and not just as a glaze for ham?
What if my ham glaze is too thin?
What if my glaze for ham is too thick?

I hope you love this Ham Glaze Recipe! It is absolutely delicious and perfect enough to drink! If you do give this recipe a try, I want to know! Leave a comment with a star rating below. You can also snap a photo & tag @butterloveandsalt on INSTAGRAM. Your reviews help support Butter, Love & Salt and make it possible for me to continue to create delicious recipes.

Ham Glaze Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cup brown sugar dark
- 1 cup pineapple juice 100%
- 3 tablespoon Dijon Mustard wholegrain
- 4 garlic cloves smashed
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 6 sprigs thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a medium sauce pan, add the glaze ingredients.
- Bring the ingredients in the pan and bring to a boil. Once the glaze comes to a boil, reduce the heat and let the glaze simmer for 8-15 minutes or until it thickens and starts to become syrupy. Stir occasionally. Note, the glaze will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Pour the glaze in a serving boil and use it to make the best baked ham with brown sugar glaze recipe or use on other recipes.

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