How to Make Baked Ham with Brown Sugar

Baked Ham with Brown Sugar, Mustard, and Cola – The Ultimate Southern Holiday Ham Recipe

A baked ham cooked low and slow with brown sugar, mustard, and cola is a Southern tradition that never goes out of style. This recipe creates the most tender, juicy, and flavorful ham imaginable, coated in a rich caramelized glaze that’s both sweet and tangy. Whether you’re preparing for Easter, Christmas, Thanksgiving, or Sunday dinner, this easy baked ham recipe will impress your guests and fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Ham Recipe
This baked ham is simple enough for beginners but special enough for holidays. The cola and brown sugar form a syrupy glaze that seeps into the ham as it bakes, giving each bite the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Plus, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser—it feeds a large group effortlessly and makes fantastic leftovers for sandwiches, casseroles, or breakfast hash.

Ingredients
· 1 fully cooked, bone-in ham (8 to 10 lbs)
· 2 cups brown sugar, packed
· 2 tablespoons Dijon or yellow mustard
· 12 oz (1 can) cola or Dr Pepper
· 1 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
· Whole cloves for studding (optional)
· Aluminum foil for covering during baking

Instructions (H2)

Step 1 – Prepare the Ham
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Remove any packaging or netting from the ham. If it has a thick rind, score the surface lightly in a diamond pattern, about 1/4 inch deep. This allows the glaze to soak into the meat and create a beautiful presentation.

Step 2 – Mix the Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, mustard, and cola. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat.

Step 3 – Apply the Glaze
Place the ham in a roasting pan, cut side down. Brush a generous amount of glaze over the surface of the ham, making sure it seeps into the scored lines. Cover loosely with foil to prevent over-browning while allowing steam to escape.

Step 4 – Bake Low and Slow
Bake the ham for about 15 minutes per pound, basting every 30–40 minutes with more glaze from the pan. The cola and brown sugar will caramelize beautifully over time, forming a glossy crust.

Step 5 – Final Caramelization
For the last 20–30 minutes, remove the foil to let the glaze darken and thicken into a sticky coating. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C). Let the ham rest for 15–20 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.

Serving Suggestions
This brown sugar cola baked ham pairs perfectly with Southern classics like mashed potatoes, cornbread dressing, roasted sweet potatoes, green beans, or mac and cheese. For a festive Easter or Christmas meal, serve it alongside deviled eggs, yeast rolls, and pineapple casserole.

Variations (H3)
· Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or a splash of hot sauce to the glaze for heat.
· Maple Twist: Replace part of the brown sugar with maple syrup for a deeper flavor.
· Pineapple Glazed Ham: Add pineapple juice or rings around the ham for a tropical touch.
· Honey Mustard Ham: Use honey instead of brown sugar for a lighter, floral sweetness.

Tips for Perfect Baked Ham
· Always bake the ham covered for most of the time to prevent it from drying out.
· Use a basting brush to coat every part evenly with the glaze.
· Don’t skip the resting time—it helps the juices redistribute for tender slices.
· If your ham is spiral-cut, glaze it carefully between the slices to enhance flavor.

FAQs (H2)

How long should I bake a ham per pound?
Bake for about 15 minutes per pound at 325°F (160°C) until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).

Can I make this brown sugar cola ham ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake it the day before, store it in the fridge, and reheat it covered with foil at 300°F for 20–25 minutes before serving.

What type of cola works best for glazed ham?
Classic Coca-Cola gives the best caramel flavor, but you can use Pepsi, Dr Pepper, or even root beer for a fun twist.

Can I use a boneless ham?
Absolutely. Boneless hams work great with this recipe—just reduce baking time slightly since they cook faster.

How do I prevent the ham from drying out?
Keep it covered for most of the bake time and baste frequently. The glaze will help retain moisture and build flavor.

Conclusion
This Baked Ham with Brown Sugar, Mustard, and Cola is more than just a recipe—it’s a Southern classic that embodies comfort, hospitality, and celebration. Perfectly glazed, tender, and full of rich flavor, it’s sure to become your go-to centerpiece for holidays and gatherings. Whether for Easter, Christmas, or Sunday supper, this easy baked ham recipe with cola glaze delivers every single time.