Glazed Brunch Ham With Mustard & Molasses

My grandmother, Nana Elsie, always knew how to make holidays special. While she was a master of many dishes, her glazed ham was legendary. I remember the sticky sweetness clinging to my fingers, the savory-smoky aroma filling her tiny kitchen, and the excited chatter of family gathered around the table, each anticipating their first bite. This recipe, adapted from Nana Elsie’s original, captures that same magic, transforming a simple ham into a show-stopping centerpiece perfect for any festive brunch.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Yield: 1 ham
• Dietary Type: Not Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 1 (6 lb) butt end half smoked ham, fully cooked
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup molasses
• 1/3 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon allspice, ground
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup fine breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup apple juice or water
• Whole cloves, to decorate

Equipment Needed

• Sharp knife
• Basting brush
• Open roasting pan
• Aluminum foil

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the ham. Using a sharp knife, carefully remove the heavy rind from the ham, leaving approximately 1/2 inch of the white fat layer intact.
2. Next, score the fat layer diagonally into a diamond pattern. This not only looks beautiful but also allows the glaze to penetrate the ham more effectively.
3. Insert a whole clove into each diamond where the lines intersect. This adds a subtle warmth and aromatic quality to the finished dish.
4. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the center.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, molasses, Dijon mustard, allspice, cinnamon, and cider vinegar. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This forms the delicious glaze that will coat the ham.
6. Using a basting brush, generously coat the entire surface of the ham with the prepared glaze. Ensure an even layer to promote consistent browning.
7. Sprinkle the fine breadcrumbs evenly over the glazed ham, pressing them gently to adhere. The breadcrumbs will create a delightful crispy texture and add another layer of flavor.
8. Line an open roasting pan with aluminum foil. This will make cleanup much easier.
9. Carefully place the prepared ham in the foil-lined roasting pan.
10. Pour the apple juice (or water) around the ham in the bottom of the pan. This provides moisture and helps prevent the ham from drying out during roasting.
11. Roast in the preheated oven for 1 1/2 hours (90 minutes), or until the ham is heated through and the glaze is a rich, golden brown. Baste the ham with the pan juices every 30 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful. The internal temperature of the ham should reach 140°F (60°C).
12. Once the ham is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For a deeper, smokier flavor, use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar.
• If you don’t have apple juice, pineapple juice is a fantastic substitute that adds a tropical twist.
• To prevent the glaze from burning, you can tent the ham with foil during the last 30 minutes of roasting.
• If the breadcrumbs start to brown too quickly, lightly mist them with cooking spray.
• Make-ahead tip: The glaze can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• To ensure the ham is thoroughly heated, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 140°F (60°C).
• If the glaze is not thick enough for your liking, simmer the pan juices on the stovetop after removing the ham from the oven until it reaches the desired consistency. Be sure to watch it closely to prevent burning.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the glazed brunch ham hot or warm, sliced thinly against the grain. It pairs perfectly with brunch staples like scrambled eggs, quiche, and fresh fruit salad. For a truly decadent brunch spread, consider serving it alongside sweet potato casserole and a side of roasted asparagus.

Leftover ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage (up to 2 months). To reheat, slice the ham and warm it gently in a skillet with a little bit of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through. Cold ham is also delicious in sandwiches, salads, or diced and added to omelets. Do not leave the ham at room temperature for more than two hours.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	881.8 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	363 g	41%
Total Fat	40.4 g	62%
Saturated Fat	13.3 g	66%
Cholesterol	234.3 mg	78%
Sodium	6063.9 mg	252%
Total Carbohydrate	49.6 g	16%
Dietary Fiber	0.8 g	3%
Sugars	36.5 g	145%
Protein	80.2 g	160%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a subtle kick.
• Maple-Glazed Ham: Substitute maple syrup for the molasses for a different flavor profile.
• Honey-Mustard Glaze: Use honey instead of molasses and add a touch of yellow mustard along with the Dijon.
• Citrus Twist: Add the zest of an orange or lemon to the glaze for a bright, fresh flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure your breadcrumbs are gluten-free. Many store-bought varieties are, or you can easily make your own from gluten-free bread.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a bone-in ham for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use a bone-in ham, but be aware that it may take longer to cook. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).

Q: Can I make this ham ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can cook the ham a day or two in advance. Let it cool completely, then store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently before serving.

Q: What is the best way to slice the ham?
A: Slice the ham thinly against the grain for the most tender results.

Q: Can I freeze leftover glazed ham?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftover ham in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: Can I use water instead of apple juice?
A: Yes, you can use water, but apple juice adds a subtle sweetness and flavor that complements the glaze.

Final Thoughts

This Glazed Brunch Ham with Mustard & Molasses is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavor, family, and good times. I encourage you to try this recipe and create your own special memories around the table. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a casual weekend brunch, this ham is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations and make it your own. I’d love to hear your feedback and see your creations! Consider pairing this delightful ham with a crisp sparkling wine or a refreshing mimosa for the ultimate brunch experience. Enjoy!