The holidays are a time for gathering around the table with loved ones, and there’s no better way to elevate your festive ham than with Grandma’s Famous Ham Glaze Recipe. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as a delightful blend of sweet apricot marmalade, zesty orange juice, and rich brown sugar simmer together. This glaze is more than just a topping; it’s a celebration in every bite. In just 10 minutes, you can transform that ordinary ham into a dazzling centerpiece that sparkles with flavor, making every slice a taste sensation. Trust me, once your guests savor that crispy, caramelized crust, they’ll be asking for your secret ingredient—and you’ll know it’s this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that makes all the difference!
Why is Grandma’s Famous Ham Glaze Recipe a Must-Try?
Elevate any occasion: This glaze transforms a simple holiday ham into a flavor-packed sensation.
Quick prep: Ready in just 10 minutes, it fits seamlessly into your festive cooking schedule.
Sweet and tangy bliss: The delightful combination of apricot marmalade and orange juice creates a mouthwatering balance that everyone will love.
Versatile swaps: Easily customize the glaze with different marmalades or spices to suit your taste.
Crowd-pleaser: Impress your guests with a stunning, caramelized finish that steals the show at any gathering!
Grandma’s Famous Ham Glaze Ingredients
For the Glaze
- Orange Juice – Adds sweetness and acidity for a balanced flavor profile; fresh juice is preferable.
- Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and depth; can be substituted with coconut sugar for a unique twist.
- Apricot Marmalade – Delivers sticky sweetness and fruity essence; feel free to swap with peach or apricot jam if desired.
- Cornstarch – Serves as a thickening agent for a luscious glaze; omit if you prefer a thinner consistency.
- Brandy – Enhances flavor complexity with warmth; can be replaced with apple cider or omitted for a non-alcoholic version.
- Dry Mustard – Adds a slight tang and depth to the glaze; substitute with yellow mustard if necessary.
This Grandma’s Famous Ham Glaze Recipe transforms your holiday ham into a show-stopping centerpiece!
How to Make Grandma’s Famous Ham Glaze
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized saucepan, whisk together the orange juice, brown sugar, apricot marmalade, and cornstarch until everything is well blended and smooth.
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Heat the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently. Allow it to thicken slightly, which should take about 5 minutes.
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Add Flavorings: Once thickened, stir in the brandy and dry mustard. Keep whisking the mixture for about 2 more minutes until everything is well combined and bubbling gently.
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Glaze the Ham: Remove the glaze from heat and pour it over the ham during the last hour of cooking. Baste the ham every 10 minutes with a turkey baster or a spoon for that perfect caramelization.
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Rest and Serve: Allow the ham to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve it with pride and enjoy the compliments!
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Grandma’s Famous Ham Glaze Recipe
• Whisk Well: Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly whisked together before applying to avoid lumps from the cornstarch.
• Watch the Heat: Monitor the heat carefully while boiling the glaze; too high will lead to burning. Adjust as necessary for smooth results.
• Basting Technique: Use a turkey baster or spoon to evenly apply the glaze every 10 minutes for optimal caramelization and flavor distribution.
• Resting Time: Allow the ham to rest after glazing and cooking; this helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a succulent, tender bite.
• Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to customize the glaze with spices or alternate marmalades; this flexibility makes Grandma’s Famous Ham Glaze Recipe uniquely yours!
Make Ahead Options
These Grandma’s Famous Ham Glaze Recipe options are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the glaze up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To do this, simply follow the initial steps of combining the orange juice, brown sugar, apricot marmalade, and cornstarch, then heat it to thicken. Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating. When you’re ready to use it, reheat the glaze gently in a saucepan over low heat until warm. This make-ahead strategy ensures your glaze is just as delicious and ready to elevate your holiday ham without the last-minute stress!
How to Store and Freeze Grandma’s Famous Ham Glaze
Fridge: Store leftover glaze in an airtight container for up to one week. This ensures you can enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors again with your meals!
Freezer: If needed, freeze the glaze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.
Reheating: Gently reheat the glaze on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. Adjust with a splash of orange juice if it has thickened too much.
Grandma’s Famous Ham Glaze Variations
Feel free to make this glaze your own with these exciting twists and substitutions!
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Peach Marmalade: Swap out apricot marmalade for peach marmalade for a sweeter, slightly tangy take. The result is a syrupy goodness that pairs beautifully with ham.
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Coconut Sugar: Use coconut sugar in place of brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor and a hint of nuttiness. It’s a lovely alternative for a more wholesome sweetness.
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Apple Cider: Replace brandy with apple cider for a non-alcoholic finish that still offers warmth and flavor. It brightens the glaze while adding a touch of fall to your dish.
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Spiced Variation: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cloves for a holiday twist. Just a dash can evoke cozy memories, turning your glaze into a festive fragrance that wafts through your home.
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Honey Boost: For a floral hint, blend in some honey. Its natural sweetness will elevate the glaze and create a rich, golden hue that glimmers over your ham.
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Heat Kick: Incorporate a dash of crushed red pepper flakes for a surprising hint of heat. This little kick adds an exciting layer beneath the sweet and tangy flavors.
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Citrus Medley: Mix in a splash of lemon or lime juice alongside the orange juice for a zesty punch that amplifies the glaze’s brightness. It’s a delightful surprise that even Grandma would approve of!
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Vegan Twist: Omit the cornstarch or use arrowroot powder and skip the brandy for a vegan version. You’ll still achieve a beautiful, flavorful glaze that everyone can enjoy.
What to Serve with Grandma’s Famous Ham Glaze?
Elevate your holiday table by pairing this delicious glaze with delightful side dishes and beverages that will impress your family and friends.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery goodness contrasts perfectly with the sweet tang of the glaze, bringing comfort to every bite.
- Roasted Root Vegetables: Carrots and parsnips roasted until caramelized add a hearty, earthy flavor that enhances the glaze’s fruity notes.
- Garlic Green Beans: The crunch of these vibrant beans balances the richness of the ham, adding a fresh element to your meal.
- Buttery Dinner Rolls: Perfect for sopping up any leftover glaze, these soft, pillowy rolls bring warmth and charm to your gathering.
- Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce can cut through the sweetness of the glaze, providing a refreshing contrast on every plate.
- Classic Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and zesty dressing give a nice crunch alongside the tender ham, creating a delightful texture contrast.
Pairing your glazed ham with a selection of these sides will not only make your dinner visually stunning but also create a symphony of flavors that your loved ones will remember long after the meal.
Grandma’s Famous Ham Glaze Recipe FAQs
What kind of orange juice should I use?
Absolutely, fresh orange juice is preferable for this recipe as it enhances the glaze’s flavor with a bright, zesty touch. If you’re in a pinch, bottled juice can work too; just ensure it’s 100% pure and free of additives for the best result.
How long can I store leftover glaze?
You can store any leftover glaze in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it up. This way, you can easily enjoy those delicious flavors again, whether it’s on another ham or drizzled over roasted veggies!
Can I freeze Grandma’s Famous Ham Glaze?
Yes! To freeze the glaze, pour it into a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag, ensuring there’s some space for expansion. It can stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating gently on the stove, stirring until warmed through.
Why did my glaze not thicken properly?
If your glaze didn’t thicken as expected, it may be due to not whisking the cornstarch mixture well enough or not cooking it at high enough heat. For future attempts, ensure you whisk thoroughly until fully combined. If it’s still too thin after boiling, consider adding a little more cornstarch mixed with water (a slurry) and simmer it for a few extra minutes to achieve that ideal consistency.
Is this glaze suitable for my pets?
It’s always best to avoid feeding your pets foods containing sugar or alcohol ingredients, like the brandy in this glaze. While a taste might not harm them, sticking to pet-friendly treats is advisable. If you want to make a pet-safe version, try a simple glaze made from just orange juice and a pinch of honey instead!
What if I want to adjust the sweetness of the glaze?
Very! If you’re aiming for a less sweet glaze, consider reducing the quantity of brown sugar or substituting it with a sugar alternative like monk fruit or stevia. You can also enhance the tanginess by adding a bit more dry mustard or a splash of vinegar, depending on your flavor preferences!
Sweet and Tangy Grandma's Famous Ham Glaze Recipe Unveiled
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium-sized saucepan, whisk together the orange juice, brown sugar, apricot marmalade, and cornstarch until everything is well blended and smooth.
- Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently. Allow it to thicken slightly, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Once thickened, stir in the brandy and dry mustard. Keep whisking the mixture for about 2 more minutes until everything is well combined and bubbling gently.
- Remove the glaze from heat and pour it over the ham during the last hour of cooking. Baste the ham every 10 minutes with a turkey baster or a spoon for that perfect caramelization.
- Allow the ham to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve it with pride and enjoy the compliments!