Classic Brown Sugar and Sage Crusted Ham

If you want a ham that’s sweet, savory, and beautifully caramelized, this brown sugar and sage crusted ham is exactly what your holiday table needs. A simple glaze made with brown sugar, sage, and a touch of mustard creates a sticky, flavorful crust that turns a pre-cooked ham into a showstopper.

This recipe keeps things easy by starting with a pre-cooked, spiral-cut ham, so all you’re really doing is building the flavor with a quick stovetop glaze and basting as it bakes. This ham recipe has been a staple around our holiday table for many years, and I’m positive you’ll love it as much as we do.

 

What is Brown Sugar and Sage Crusted Ham?

Brown sugar and sage crusted ham is a pre-cooked, spiral-cut ham basted with a glaze made from brown sugar, sage, mustard, and apple juice. The glaze caramelizes as the ham bakes, creating a sweet, sticky crust with a savory, herbal edge from the sage.

Key Takeaways

• Ready in under 2 hours, depending on the size of the ham.
• Just 6 ingredients for the glaze.
• Use a pre-cooked, spiral-cut ham, making prep simple.
• Glaze multiple times while baking for maximum flavor and caramelization.
• Great for Easter, Christmas, and Thanksgiving.

Ingredient Notes

Brown Sugar: The base of the glaze, giving it sweetness and deep caramelized color.

Sage: Adds a warm, slightly earthy flavor that balances the sweetness and gives the ham its signature twist.

Cinnamon: A small amount adds warmth without making the glaze taste overly spiced.

Salt: Balances the sweetness of the glaze.

Dijon Mustard: Adds a tang and depth; whole grain mustard adds a bit of texture too.

Apple Juice: Thins the glaze slightly and adds subtle fruity sweetness.

Ham: Use a pre-cooked ham, which means you’re warming it up and not cooking it from raw.

How to Make Brown Sugar and Sage Crusted Ham

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine brown sugar, sage, cinnamon, salt, mustard, and apple juice.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and simmer uncovered until reduced by about one-third, 5-8 minutes.
4. Place ham in a roasting pan. Brush glaze over ham, being sure to get it in between the layers of ham.
5. Bake for about 1 hour and 40 minutes, or until ham is warmed through and darkened on top (about 10 minutes per pound). Glaze ham every 30-45 minutes, being sure the ham is not drying out. Cover with foil, if necessary.
6. Finish ham with a final brush of glaze and let rest 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Brown Sugar and Sage Crusted Ham

• Baste Regularly. Glazing every 30 to 45 minutes builds layers of flavor and helps the crust caramelize beautifully.
• Watch for drying out. If the ham starts to look dry, tent the ham with foil to help retain moisture while it finishes baking.
• Get the glaze between the layers. Since this is a spiral-cut ham, brushing glaze between the slices helps flavor every bite, not just the surface.
• Let it rest before slicing. A short rest helps the juices redistribute for a more tender, flavorful slice.
• Use a meat thermometer if unsure. Since the ham is pre-cooked, you’re just warming it through; an internal temperature of about 140°F confirms it’s fully heated.

Variations and Substitutions

Juice Swap – Use orange juice or pineapple juice in place of apple juice for a different fruity note in the glaze.

Spice Adjustment – Add a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg for extra warmth in the glaze.

Mustard Choice – Dijon gives a smoother glaze, while whole grain mustard adds a bit of texture and visual interest.

Sweeter Swap – Try this Brown Sugar Glazed Ham for a sweet option.

Frequently Asked Questions

What to Serve with Brown Sugar and Sage Crusted Ham

Classic Homemade Mashed Potatoes

Grandma’s Green Bean Casserole

Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce

Mom’s Jumbo Dinner Rolls

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator

Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezer

Store leftover ham in a freezer-safe storage bag or container in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

When ready to reheat, heat gently in the oven, covered in foil, to help retain the moisture, and use leftovers in soups, sandwiches, or casseroles.

This brown sugar and sage crusted ham is a show-stopping holiday main meal that doesn’t have to be overly complicated. With a simple glaze and a little basting, you’ll end up with a sweet, savory ham that will be the star of your holiday table.

More Holiday Recipes

From Scratch Recipes

12 Thanksgiving Main Dish Recipes

From Scratch Recipes

21 Thanksgiving Dessert Recipes

Turkey Recipes

Dry Brine Turkey: The Secret to Crispy Skin and Juicy Meat

Dessert Recipes

Perfect Homemade Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe