Here’s a classic recipe for Pineapple Glazed Ham that’s perfect for holidays, special occasions, or any time you want a sweet and savory centerpiece for your meal. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of pineapple with a tangy glaze for a delicious, juicy ham.
Pineapple Glazed Ham Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (8–10 pounds)
- 1 cup pineapple juice (reserved from canned pineapple, if using)
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard (or whole-grain mustard)
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices (optional, for garnish)
- Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)
- Toothpicks (for securing pineapple and cherries)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). - Prepare the Ham
Place the ham on a rack in a large roasting pan, cut side down. If the ham has a thick layer of fat, score it in a diamond pattern with a sharp knife (about 1/4 inch deep). This helps the glaze penetrate and creates a beautiful presentation. - Make the Glaze
In a medium saucepan, combine the pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves (if using). Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly (about 5–7 minutes). Remove from heat. - Glaze the Ham
Brush about 1/3 of the glaze evenly over the ham. Reserve the remaining glaze for basting. - Bake the Ham
Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake for about 1.5–2 hours (or approximately 15 minutes per pound), basting with the glaze every 30 minutes. - Add Pineapple and Cherries (Optional)
About 30 minutes before the ham is done, remove it from the oven and increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). Arrange pineapple slices on the ham, securing them with toothpicks. Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple slice, if desired. Brush with more glaze. - Finish Baking
Return the ham to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 20–30 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and the internal temperature of the ham reaches 140°F (60°C). - Rest and Serve
Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15–20 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with any remaining glaze on the side.
Tips
- For a spicier glaze, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce.
- If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the brown sugar to 3/4 cup.
- Leftover ham makes great sandwiches, omelets, or soups!
Enjoy your Pineapple Glazed Ham! 🍍🍖
