introduction
This Pineapple Glazed Ham is sweet, tangy, and easy to make. It uses a brown sugar and pineapple glaze that caramelizes on the ham. The result is a shiny, flavorful ham for family meals or holidays.
why make this recipe
- It tastes great and looks festive.
- It is simple and uses common ingredients.
- A fully cooked ham makes prep quick.
- The glaze adds a nice balance of sweet and tang.
how to make Pineapple Glazed Ham
Ingredients :
- 1 fully cooked ham (about 8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- Pineapple slices (for garnish)
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern.
- In a bowl, combine brown sugar, pineapple juice, honey, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and cloves. Mix well.
- Brush the glaze over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored sections.
- Place the ham in a roasting pan and cover loosely with aluminum foil.
- Bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting with the glaze every 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil for the last 30 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with pineapple slices and serve.
how to serve Pineapple Glazed Ham
Slice the ham thin or thick, as you like. Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a green salad. The pineapple slices add color and a bit of extra sweetness.
how to store Pineapple Glazed Ham
- Cool the ham to room temperature, then wrap tightly in foil or place in an airtight container.
- Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- To freeze, slice the ham and store in freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Pineapple Glazed Ham
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the ham is warm throughout. A fully cooked ham should reach 140°F (60°C) when reheated.
- Score the ham about 1/8 to 1/4 inch deep so the glaze soaks in.
- Baste often for a glossy finish and deeper flavor.
- Watch the last 30 minutes so the glaze does not burn; tent with foil if it browns too fast.
- Save extra glaze to warm and serve on the side.
variation (if any)
- Add a splash of orange juice or a tablespoon of bourbon to the glaze for extra flavor.
- Use brown mustard instead of Dijon for a milder tang.
- Add cloves or whole cloves stuck into the ham for a more traditional look and spice.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a smaller or larger ham?
A: Yes. Adjust cooking time. A smaller ham will need less time; a larger ham needs more. Follow the directions for basting and check temperature.
Q: Do I need to cook a fully cooked ham?
A: No. A fully cooked ham only needs to be reheated. Heat it to 140°F (60°C) for best results.
Q: Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?
A: Yes. Make the glaze a day ahead and keep it in the fridge in a sealed container. Warm it before brushing on the ham.
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple juice?
A: Yes. Fresh pineapple juice works well and gives a bright flavor.
Q: How do I prevent the glaze from burning?
A: Bake covered most of the time and remove the foil only for the last 30 minutes. If it browns too fast, cover loosely with foil.
Conclusion
For a similar baked ham with a sweet pineapple-brown sugar glaze and extra tips, see Baked Ham with Pineapple Glaze – Tastes Better from Scratch.
Pineapple Glazed Ham
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern.
- In a bowl, combine brown sugar, pineapple juice, honey, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and cloves. Mix well.
- Brush the glaze over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored sections.
- Place the ham in a roasting pan and cover loosely with aluminum foil.
- Bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting with the glaze every 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil for the last 30 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with pineapple slices and serve.