There’s something magical about glazed ham with pineapple. This dish isn’t just a staple during the holidays it’s a timeless centerpiece that warms the hearts (and bellies) of anyone lucky enough to sit at your table. The combination of sweet, sticky glaze and smoky, juicy ham brings nostalgic joy, especially when it’s been part of family dinners for generations. In our home, glazed ham with pineapple was the crown jewel of every Easter and Christmas. My grandmother passed this recipe down to my mother, who eventually passed it to me. Over the years, I’ve added a little twist here and there, but the soul of the dish remains the same: comforting, tender, and oh-so-flavorful. And trust me, once you master glazed ham with pineapple, it will become one of your own family traditions, too.
Why It Works
There are a few reasons why this glazed ham with pineapple recipe stands the test of time:
- Flavor Harmony: The sweet glaze made with brown sugar, pineapple juice, and a hint of mustard pairs perfectly with the salty, savory ham.
- Beautiful Presentation: The golden-brown glaze and pineapple rings make this dish look like it came from a gourmet kitchen.
- Crowd-Pleaser: It’s universally loved. Even picky eaters can’t resist.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for holidays or large gatherings.
- Versatile Leftovers: Ham sandwiches, omelets, and even swamp soup the next day!
Ingredients List
To make this crowd-pleasing glazed ham with pineapple, you’ll need:
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (8-10 lbs)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Whole cloves (optional)
- 1 can of pineapple rings
- Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)
- Toothpicks
How to Make Glazed Ham with Pineapple
Step 1: Prep the Ham
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the ham on a roasting rack in a large baking dish or roasting pan. Using a sharp knife, score the surface in a diamond pattern to help the glaze seep in. If you’re using whole cloves, insert them into the intersections of the cuts.
Step 2: Make the Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, pineapple juice, Dijon mustard, honey, and apple cider vinegar. Bring to a simmer and stir until everything is well combined. Let it simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened. This sweet glaze is what gives your glazed ham with pineapple its signature flavor.
Step 3: Apply the Glaze
Brush the glaze generously over the ham. Reserve some for basting later. Arrange pineapple rings over the surface of the ham and secure them with toothpicks. If you like, place maraschino cherries in the center of each ring for that classic retro touch.
Step 4: Bake Low and Slow
Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the remaining glaze. Remove the foil for the last 30 minutes to let the top caramelize beautifully. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C) when done.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let the ham rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat succulent.
Serving & Garnish
Slice your glazed ham with pineapple and arrange it on a large serving platter. Drizzle some of the leftover glaze over the top for that glossy, irresistible look. Garnish with extra pineapple rings or a sprig of fresh herbs. This ham pairs beautifully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a flaky puff pastry pocket.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the scoring: Don’t forget to score the ham. It helps the glaze penetrate and flavors the meat.
- Overcooking: Use a thermometer to prevent drying out. Remember, your ham is already cooked you’re just warming and glazing it.
- Not basting: Frequent basting ensures your glaze stays thick and sticky.
- Using cold ham: Let your ham sit at room temp for about 30 minutes before baking for more even heating.
Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat slices in a covered baking dish at 325°F, with a splash of broth or glaze to keep them moist.
- Freezing: Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Use within 2 months.
Rita’s Note
If you’re like me and love to use every bit of flavor in your kitchen, don’t toss the ham bone! It makes a delicious base for soups like my swamp soup or bean stews. One of my favorite twists on glazed ham with pineapple is adding a pinch of crushed red pepper to the glaze for a sweet-spicy kick. Oh and if you’re preparing this dish for the holidays, try pairing it with my perfectly layered lasagna for a jaw-dropping family feast.
FAQs
Can I use a spiral-cut ham?
Absolutely! Spiral-cut hams work beautifully because the glaze seeps between each slice. Just be extra gentle when basting.
Do I have to use cloves?
Not at all. They add a traditional aroma and flavor, but you can skip them if you’re not a fan.
What if I don’t have pineapple juice?
You can substitute with orange juice or apple juice. The flavor will change slightly but still complement the ham.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the ham a day ahead and reheat it. Be sure to store it with some glaze or pan juices to keep it moist.
What’s the best way to slice ham?
Start at the bone and work your way outward. A sharp carving knife is your best friend here!
Happy cooking with Rita chef ❤️!
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Glazed Ham with Pineapple
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This sweet and savory glazed ham with pineapple features brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and juicy pineapple for a stunning, mouthwatering centerpiece.
Ingredients
1 fully cooked bone-in ham (8–10 lbs)
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup pineapple juice
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1/4 cup honey
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Whole cloves (optional)
1 can of pineapple rings
Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)
Toothpicks
Instructions
Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the ham on a roasting rack in a large baking dish or roasting pan.
Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern and insert whole cloves at the intersections if using.
In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, pineapple juice, Dijon mustard, honey, and apple cider vinegar. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Brush the glaze generously over the ham, reserving some for basting later.
Arrange pineapple rings over the surface of the ham and secure with toothpicks. Place maraschino cherries in the centers of the rings if desired.
Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the reserved glaze.
Remove foil for the last 30 minutes of baking to allow the glaze to caramelize.
Ensure the internal temperature of the ham reaches 140°F (60°C).
Remove from the oven, rest for 15 minutes, slice, and serve.
Notes
Use spiral-cut ham for easier serving and deeper flavor penetration. Substitute orange juice if you don’t have pineapple juice. Add a pinch of crushed red pepper to the glaze for a sweet-spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 1050mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: glazed ham with pineapple, pineapple glazed ham, honey glazed ham, brown sugar glazed ham