Spicy-Sweet Ham Recipe: A Perfect Glaze for Every Occasion
Sometimes, the best recipes are the ones you didn’t see coming. That’s exactly how I felt the first time I tried this spicy-sweet ham. Frank’s RedHot, brown sugar, and mustard might sound like an odd combo, but trust me—it works. The hot sauce and brown sugar create a caramelized glaze that’s rich, tangy, and just sweet enough, while the mustard adds a subtle depth that ties it all together.
This ham isn’t just good; it’s fine. Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast, Sunday dinner, or just because you’re in the mood to impress, this glaze will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.
Why This Recipe Works
The balance of flavors in this glaze is what makes it so special. The brown sugar gives you that classic sweetness, the hot sauce brings a tangy kick without being overly spicy, and the mustard adds just enough zing to keep things interesting. Plus, the repeated basting creates layers of sticky, glossy goodness that makes this ham the star of the meal.
Ingredients for Spicy-Sweet Ham
Here’s what you’ll need to make this showstopping ham:
- 1 bone-in ham (pre-cooked, about 8–10 lbs)
- 2 cups brown sugar
- Frank’s RedHot sauce (enough to form a thick paste)
- 1 tablespoon mustard
How to Make Spicy-Sweet Ham
1. Preheat and Prepare the Ham
Preheat your oven to 325°F. Place the ham in a roasting pan and score the surface with shallow cuts in a diamond pattern to help the glaze soak in.
2. Make the Glaze
In a bowl, combine the brown sugar, Frank’s RedHot sauce, and mustard. Stir until the mixture forms a thick, spreadable paste. Adjust the amount of hot sauce to get the consistency just right—it should be thick enough to stick to the ham but still spread easily.
3. Glaze the Ham
Brush a generous layer of the glaze over the ham, making sure to coat all the nooks and crannies. Reserve some glaze for later.
4. Bake and Baste
Bake the ham at 325°F, basting it with the pan juices and adding a fresh layer of glaze every 30 minutes. Continue this process until the internal temperature of the ham reaches 145°F, about 1½ to 2 hours.
5. Final Glaze Layer
About 15–20 minutes before the ham is done, brush on a final thick layer of glaze. Let it caramelize in the oven, creating a glossy, sticky finish.
6. Rest and Serve
Once the ham reaches 145°F, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve with any extra pan juices drizzled on top.
Tips for the Best Spicy-Sweet Ham
- Go Heavy on the Glaze: Don’t skimp on the layers of glaze—it’s what makes this ham so irresistible.
- Make It Your Own: Not a fan of mustard? Add a splash of apple cider vinegar instead for a different tangy twist.
- Serve with Sides: Pair this ham with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or cornbread for a meal that’ll have everyone talking.
Why This Recipe Is a Game-Changer
This spicy-sweet ham recipe isn’t just another holiday dish—it’s a flavor-packed centerpiece that’ll steal the show every time. The combination of Frank’s RedHot, brown sugar, and mustard creates a glaze that’s equal parts sweet, tangy, and smoky, with just a hint of heat.
And let’s not forget how easy it is to make. With a handful of pantry staples and a little patience while basting, you’ll have a ham that’s as gorgeous as it is delicious. So go ahead, give it a try—your guests (and your taste buds) will thank you.
