Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Ham Bites Recipe – Sweet Party Appetizer Idea
These Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Ham Bites are the ultimate sweet and savory appetizer. Tender chunks of ham are caramelized in a luscious glaze made from brown sugar, honey, and butter, creating bite-sized pieces that are sticky, flavorful, and irresistible. They’re quick to prepare, perfect for holiday parties, game day, or family gatherings, and guaranteed to disappear fast from the table. Serve them with toothpicks for easy snacking and watch them become the star of your spread.
Equipment
- Baking sheet (or skillet)
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Pastry brush
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 2 lbs thick-cut ham, cubed into bite-sized pieces
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- 2 tbsp apple juice (optional, for balance)
- Pinch of chili flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Prepare Ham: Cut ham into cubes and place on baking sheet or skillet.
- Make Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together brown sugar, honey, melted butter, and optional flavor boosters.
- Coat Ham: Brush glaze generously over ham bites.
- Cook:-Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, brushing glaze halfway through.-Skillet: Pan-sear ham cubes, then add glaze and cook until caramelized.-Air Fryer: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, brushing glaze in layers.
- Serve: Transfer to platter, garnish with parsley, and serve with toothpicks.
Notes
- Variations: Swap honey for maple syrup, add pineapple juice for tropical sweetness, or chili flakes for spice.
- Storage: Refrigerate for 3–4 days. Freeze bites individually for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm gently in oven at 325°F (160°C) with extra glaze to restore moisture.
- Pairings: Best with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, soda bread, sparkling cider, or light red wine.