A juicy, sweet, citrus-infused centerpiece that turns any meal into a special occasion. I love how the orange and brown sugar caramelize into a glossy crust that keeps every slice tender and richly flavored. Honey Baked With Orange-Brown Sugar Glaze

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy this recipe because the glaze is simple yet transforms the entire dish. The blend of orange, honey, and brown sugar creates a fragrant, sticky coating that bakes beautifully. I appreciate how effortless it is to prepare, how well it feeds a crowd, and how consistent the results are. The sweet-tangy flavor is always a winner during holidays or cozy family dinners.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 spiral-cut bone-in piece (8–10 pounds)
1 cup orange juice
1 1/4 cups dark brown sugar
1/3 cup honey
1 tablespoon orange zest
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
Whole cloves (optional for garnish)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C).
Score the surface in a crisscross pattern and place it into a roasting pan.
Combine orange juice, dark brown sugar, honey, orange zest, and optional cinnamon and Dijon mustard in a saucepan. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened.
Brush the glaze generously over the entire surface. Loosely cover the roasting pan with foil.
Bake for about 15 minutes per pound, glazing every 30 minutes.
Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize.
Let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

Servings And Timing

An 8–10 pound piece serves about 12 people.
Total time: around 2 hours 45 minutes, including prep and baking.

Variations

Swap orange juice for pineapple juice for a tropical twist.
Add a splash of bourbon for warmth and depth.
Use maple syrup instead of honey for a richer sweetness.
Add spices such as nutmeg or allspice for a festive flavor.
Lay thin orange slices on top during baking for extra aroma.

Storage/Reheating

I keep leftovers in an airtight container or wrap slices tightly before refrigerating. They stay fresh for 3–4 days. For reheating, I warm slices gently in a 300°F oven, covered, to keep them moist. Cold slices are also great for sandwiches or quick meals.

FAQs

Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?

Yes. I often make the glaze a few days ahead. It thickens in the refrigerator, so I warm it slightly before brushing it on.

Can I use bottled orange juice?

I can, but freshly squeezed orange juice always gives a brighter, cleaner flavor.

How do I keep it from drying out?

I keep it covered with foil during most of the baking time and baste every 30 minutes to maintain moisture.

Can I use boneless instead?

Yes, boneless works fine if preferred. The texture is slightly different, but the glaze pairs beautifully with it.

How do I know when it’s heated through?

I check that the internal temperature reaches 140°F for perfect warming without overcooking.

Conclusion

I love preparing this orange-brown sugar glazed dish because it transforms simple ingredients into a show-stopping centerpiece. The sweet, citrusy aroma and glossy caramelized finish make it perfect for gatherings or special meals. It’s comforting, easy to prepare, and always impressive on the table.