Low Sugar Brown Sugar Ham Glaze

Total time15 min

Prep time5 min

Cook time10 min

This glaze builds its deep flavor from sharp Dijon mustard, a bright hit of apple cider vinegar, and a swirl of melted butter, all warmed together until smooth and glossy. Cinnamon and cloves bring cozy warmth, while a pinch of black pepper and an optional touch of cayenne give it just enough kick to balance the richness. Simmered gently until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, it's brushed onto the ham in the final stretch of roasting for that irresistible sticky, lacquered crust. Each fresh coat builds another layer of shine and flavor, so by the time it comes out of the oven, the exterior is deeply caramelized and glistening. It's an easy way to dress up a holiday ham without any fuss, and it fits neatly into an added sugar–conscious kitchen. Simple pantry staples, a few warm spices, and a little patience are all it takes to get that glossy, restaurant-worthy finish.

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Ingredients

12 servings

1 cup packed dark brown sugar
Swerve Brown Zero Calorie Sweetener, 12 oz Lakanto Brown Monkfruit Sweetener with Erythritol Swerve Sweetener, Zero Calorie, Brown
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Chef's tip
Use the same volume. Brown-sugar replacements vary in moisture, spread, and browning, so follow the package's baking guidance and start checking a few minutes early.
3 tbsp dijon mustard
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp unsalted butter
½ tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp ground cloves
¼ tsp black pepper
⅛ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

1
Combine the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, butter, cinnamon, cloves, black pepper, and cayenne (if using) in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2
Whisk constantly until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves completely, about 2–3 minutes, until the mixture is smooth and just beginning to bubble at the edges.

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