3-Ingredient Ham Glaze

My 3-ingredient ham glaze is easy to make and caramelizes on the ham as it bakes. It’s made with brown sugar, butter, and orange juice for a citrusy sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory flavor of ham.

My Easy Ham Glaze Recipe

I started making my 3-ingredient ham glaze years ago to bring in even more flavor on my holiday ham. I love the savory flavor, but it needed a little more oomph to help it out.

I wanted to make it as easy as possible as when I’m making a whole ham, I’m typically preparing a holiday dinner filled with plenty of sides to go along with it.

So I chose 3 simple ingredients: brown sugar for sweetness, butter for caramelization, and orange juice for a bit of a citrus flavor that melds all the flavors together. I find just those 3 ingredients are all it needs!

My daughter Leah loves ham and this is her favorite ham glaze recipe for me to make.

And, if you love a good ham recipe, try my recipes for spiral ham, pineapple glazed ham, ham gravy, pineapple sauce for ham, and a ham shank.

Brown Sugar Glaze for Ham Ingredients

• Butter – I use butter for a rich base that helps the brown sugar melt smoothly into the glaze to avoid a gritty texture.
• Brown sugar – Brown sugar adds that deep, caramel flavor that makes the glaze feel classic and holiday-ready.
• Orange juice – A little orange juice balances the sweetness and keeps the glaze from tasting flat. I’ve also swapped in pineapple juice when I want a slightly different flavor.

How to Make Ham Glaze

STEP ONE: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the butter, brown sugar, and orange juice.

STEP TWO: Melt the butter and stir it over medium heat. Keep stirring until the butter has melted, the sugar is fully dissolved, and the glaze looks smooth and glossy.

STEP THREE: Let the glaze simmer, and once it starts to bubble, remove the pot from the heat.

STEP FOUR: Let the glaze cool for a few minutes to thicken slightly.

STEP FIVE: Brush the glaze over the ham during the last 30 to 45 minutes of cooking. Apply 2 to 3 coats, brushing the ham every 10 to 15 minutes.

Recipe Tips

• I keep the heat at medium when making the glaze on the stove so the ingredients can melt and develop a smooth sheen. Hotter temperatures can burn the sugar.
• It’s important to let the glaze cool for a few minutes before applying it to the ham so it can set properly and thicken up.
• I don’t apply the glaze until the last 30-45 minutes of baking the spiral ham so it has time to caramelize but doesn’t burn.
• During the last stretch of cooking, I reapply the glaze to the spiral ham every 10–15 minutes so it really builds flavor.
• If the glaze seems too thick, I use a splash of orange juice or water to help get the right consistency. 

Variations and Substitutions

• When I’m in the mood for a sweeter, fruitier glaze, I swap the orange juice for pineapple juice. I like to make this version for Easter!
• If I’m out of brown sugar, I’ll substitute maple sugar, honey, maple sugar, or even coconut sugar to get that combination of sweetness and depth.
• For a fun twist, I sometimes swap out the orange juice for Root Beer. It sounds crazy, but the flavors are perfect for a ham glaze!
• To dial up the warm, holiday flavor, I’ll add a small pinch of ground cloves while the glaze simmers on the stove.
• I sometimes like to add a little tang by mixing in a small amount of Dijon mustard into the glaze.

What to Serve With 3-Ingredient Brown Sugar Ham Glaze

I always use one of my ham glazes when I’m making a spiral ham with my signature method!

For some delicious sides to round out an Easter, Christmas, or other holiday feast with the family, I love whipping up my cornbread stuffing, sweet potato casserole, Velveeta macaroni and cheese, maple glazed carrots, or green bean casserole!

3-Ingredient ham glaze FAQs

Can I make this brown sugar glaze for ham ahead of time?

I usually make this glaze fresh, but I’ve made it up to five days ahead with great results! I store the glaze in the fridge in an airtight container and give it a stir before brushing it over the ham.

What if my ham glaze isn’t getting thick enough?

If my glaze seems thin, I let it simmer for longer and give it time to cool. The glaze always thickens more as it rests. If I’m really worried or know I added too much liquid, I’ll whisk in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.

What do I do if my ham glaze burns?

If the glaze starts to burn, I take it off the heat right away and transfer what I can to a clean saucepan. I’ve learned that medium heat and constant stirring make all the difference.

How to store leftover glazed ham

I store leftover glazed ham in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 5 days. I love to brush a little extra glaze over the slices before sealing it up. It keeps the ham moist and flavorful.

Do I glaze my ham before or after cooking?

I always glaze my ham during the last 30–45 minutes of cooking. That timing lets the glaze caramelize without burning and gives the glazed ham its signature shine.

More Easy Holiday Recipes

• Strawberry pretzel salad
• Boneless leg of lamb recipe
• Pineapple dressing recipe
• Meatballs with grape jelly and BBQ sauce
• Easy carrot cake