These Brown Sugar Glazed Ham Biscuit Sliders are the perfect little bites for breakfast, brunch, or a quick snack. Soft, flaky biscuits hug sweet and smoky ham that’s been brushed with a sticky, caramel-like brown sugar glaze. Each slider packs a punch of comfort and flavor in every mouthful.
I love making these sliders when I want something easy to share but still feel special. The brown sugar glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the salty ham. Plus, using biscuits makes it feel warm and homemade without much fuss. It’s become one of my go-to recipes whenever friends come over or when I need a simple treat.
My favorite way to serve these is warm right out of the oven, maybe with a side of fresh fruit or a hot cup of coffee. They’re also great for brunch parties or family gatherings because everyone can grab one and enjoy. If you have leftovers (which is rare), just pop them in the toaster oven to warm them back up, and they’ll taste just as good as the first time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions for Ham Biscuit Sliders
Biscuits: Buttermilk biscuits are soft and slightly tangy. Store-bought works great for a quick fix, while homemade adds a fresh, flaky touch. You can substitute with dinner rolls if biscuits aren’t handy.
Ham: Use deli ham for convenience, or leftover cooked ham for more flavor and less salt. If you’re avoiding pork, turkey or chicken slices can be good swaps.
Brown Sugar Glaze: Brown sugar adds sweetness and stickiness. You can swap with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor twist. Dijon mustard offers a little spice; yellow mustard can work too.
Butter & Vinegar: Butter gives richness, and apple cider vinegar adds a nice tang to balance sweetness. White vinegar works in a pinch, but use a little less to avoid overpowering the glaze.
How Do I Make a Smooth, Sticky Brown Sugar Glaze?
Making the glaze is key to delicious sliders! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by melting the butter gently over medium heat to avoid burning.
- Stir in brown sugar, Dijon mustard, vinegar, and pepper while the butter melts.
- Keep stirring for 3-5 minutes until sugar fully dissolves and the glaze looks shiny and smooth.
- Remove from heat promptly to stop cooking so it doesn’t get too thick or hard.
Tip: If your glaze thickens too much, add a splash of water to loosen it before brushing on the ham and biscuits.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven – I recommend it for baking the biscuits and finishing the sliders to warm everything through.
- Baking sheet – Provides a sturdy surface for assembling and baking the sliders.
- Small saucepan – Perfect for melting butter and making the brown sugar glaze with minimal mess.
- Pastry brush or spoon – Lets you easily brush the glaze onto the ham and biscuits for even coverage.
- Knife and cutting board – Handy to slice open biscuits and cut any extras, like ham slices.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ham for roast turkey or chicken slices for a leaner option that still pairs well with the sweet glaze.
- Add a layer of melted cheese, like Swiss or cheddar, under the ham for extra richness.
- Mix in sliced caramelized onions or pickles for added flavor and texture.
- Use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different sweet note that complements the savory ham.
Brown Sugar Glazed Ham Biscuit Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Sliders:
- 12 small buttermilk biscuits (store-bought or homemade)
- 12 slices of ham (deli-style or leftover cooked ham)
For The Brown Sugar Glaze:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped fresh thyme or parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and bake. You’ll spend some time baking the biscuits if they are store-bought (or making them homemade), then a few minutes to make the glaze, assemble the sliders, and bake everything together for a warm, slightly crispy finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Bake the Biscuits:
If you’re using store-bought biscuits, bake them according to the package directions until they’re golden and fluffy. If you prefer homemade biscuits, bake your dough until nicely golden. Once done, set the biscuits aside to cool slightly.
3. Make the Brown Sugar Glaze:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and black pepper. Keep stirring for about 3-5 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the glaze is smooth and shiny. Remove the pan from heat.
4. Assemble the Sliders:
Slice each biscuit in half horizontally. Place a slice of ham on the bottom half of each biscuit. Brush the ham generously with the brown sugar glaze. Then, place the biscuit tops over the ham to form sliders.
5. Bake and Serve:
Arrange the sliders on your prepared baking sheet. If you have extra glaze, brush some lightly on the tops of the biscuits for extra flavor. Bake for about 10 minutes—just until everything is warmed through and the biscuit tops are a little crispy. Take them out, sprinkle with chopped fresh thyme or parsley if you like, and serve right away. Enjoy the sweet, sticky glaze with savory ham and soft biscuits!
Can I Use Frozen Biscuits for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw frozen biscuits completely according to package instructions before baking. This ensures they bake evenly and become light and fluffy.
Can I Prepare the Sliders Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the sliders and store them covered in the fridge for up to a day. When ready, bake them in the oven until warmed through and the tops are crispy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed, brushing with a little extra glaze if needed to freshen up the flavor.
What Are Some Good Substitutions for Ham?
Turkey or chicken slices make great alternatives if you prefer a leaner protein. You can also try a smoky sausage patty for a different flavor profile.