Doreens ham slices on the grill –Today, I want to share a delightful recipe that will make your gatherings even more special—Dolly Parton’s Hickory Ham with a Brown Sugar Glaze. This dish is not only easy to prepare, but it also brings a touch of sweetness and warmth to your table. Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or any occasion where good food is the star!
How to Make It: Dolly Parton’s Hickory Ham With a Brown Sugar Glaze
This scrumptious hickory ham is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and the rich brown sugar glaze elevates it to a whole new level. Let’s dive into the details and get started!

Ingredients:
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup of brown sugar
- 1/2 cup of honey
- 1/4 cup of Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of hickory smoke flavor (optional)
- Whole cloves (for studding the ham)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, prepare the ham.
- Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern and stud with whole cloves for added flavor and presentation.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and hickory smoke flavor (if using).
- Heat the mixture over medium heat until the sugar is dissolved and the glaze is smooth. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Place the ham in a roasting pan, brush generously with the glaze, and cover loosely with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting with additional glaze every 30 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the glaze to caramelize.
- Once cooked, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm and enjoy the blend of sweet and savory flavors!
This hickory ham truly embodies comfort and is a great centerpiece dish for any occasion. As you gather around the table with loved ones, this recipe will surely create lasting memories. Don’t forget to savor every bite!