There is something truly magical about a golden, caramelized ham glazed with pineapple and brown sugar that turns any gathering into an unforgettable celebration. The Perfect Holiday Ham with Pineapple & Brown Sugar Recipe combines the best of sweet and savory flavors, creating a centerpiece that’s juicy, tender, and bursting with warmth. This dish effortlessly elevates your holiday table, with the fruity tang of pineapple complementing the deep richness of brown sugar and honey, promising smiles and seconds all around.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the foundation of this recipe’s success. Each item plays a crucial role, contributing not just to flavor, but to texture and that irresistible shiny glaze that makes the ham so inviting.
- 1 cooked ham (8–10 lb): Choose a fully cooked ham with a nice fat cap for moisture and flavor throughout the bake.
- 1 can pineapple rings: Adds natural sweetness and provides a beautiful decorative element on top of the ham.
- ¾ cup brown sugar: The star of our glaze that caramelizes beautifully to create rich, sticky goodness.
- ¼ cup honey: Enhances sweetness and adds a glossy finish to the glaze.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness with a touch of depth.
- Whole cloves (optional): Inserted into the pineapple rings, they infuse the ham with warm, spicy notes and look elegant.
How to Make Perfect Holiday Ham with Pineapple & Brown Sugar Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Ham
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. To allow the glaze to penetrate and create that signature texture, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about ½ inch deep. This also helps the ham cook evenly and absorb flavors beautifully.
Step 2: Adding Pineapple and Cloves
Arrange the pineapple rings neatly on the scored surface of the ham. If you love that aromatic warmth, secure the pineapple rings with whole cloves by pressing them through the center of each slice into the ham—this step is optional but highly recommended for that classic holiday aroma.
Step 3: Preparing the Glaze
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, honey, and Dijon mustard until fully combined. This glossy glaze is what transforms the ham into a sweet, sticky delight with just the right tang. For an extra zing, you can add a splash of the pineapple juice from the can.
Step 4: Glazing and Baking
Pour the glaze evenly over the ham, making sure it covers every nook and cranny. Place the ham in a roasting pan and bake for about 1½ to 2 hours, basting with the pan juices and extra glaze every 30 minutes. This repeated glazing builds up layers of sticky, caramelized flavor that your guests will rave about.
Step 5: Rest and Slice
Once the ham reaches a lovely caramelized color and is heated through, remove it from the oven. Let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing—this step ensures each slice retains its juicy tenderness, making every bite melt in your mouth.
How to Serve Perfect Holiday Ham with Pineapple & Brown Sugar Recipe
Garnishes
To make this ham truly shine on the table, consider garnishing with fresh sprigs of rosemary or thyme around the base. These herbs add a wonderful earthy aroma and a pretty green contrast that complements the golden glaze perfectly.
Side Dishes
This ham pairs beautifully with classic autumn and winter sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, or sweet potato casserole. For a fresh balance, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette also works wonders alongside the rich flavors of the ham.
Creative Ways to Present
For an extra festive touch, arrange pineapple rings with maraschino cherries in the center on the ham before serving, adding pops of vibrant color and bursts of sweetness. You might also elevate presentation by serving slices on a bed of sautéed kale or alongside a spoonful of pineapple chutney for a tropical twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover ham, store it in an airtight container and refrigerate. Properly stored, the ham will stay moist and delicious for up to 4 days, perfect for quick lunches or hearty dinners after the holiday rush.
Freezing
To freeze leftover ham, slice it and wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Frozen ham maintains great quality for up to 2 months, making it a convenient option to enjoy this rich flavor beyond the holidays.
Reheating
Reheat your ham slices gently in the oven at 275°F wrapped in foil to maintain moisture. Alternatively, warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of pineapple juice to revive that juicy, luscious texture without drying out the meat.
FAQs
Can I use a raw ham for this recipe?
This particular recipe calls for a fully cooked ham. Using a raw ham would require a much longer cooking time and different preparation to ensure proper cooking and safety.
What type of brown sugar works best for the glaze?
Light brown sugar is preferred for this recipe because it offers a balanced sweetness and mild molasses flavor that complements the pineapple without overpowering it.
Is it necessary to use cloves in the ham?
Cloves are optional but highly recommended. They add a warm spice that enhances the aroma and flavor, plus they create a beautiful festive look when arranged with the pineapple rings.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the glaze and score the ham a day ahead, then assemble and bake on the day you plan to serve. This helps save time and allows the flavors to develop even more deeply.
How do I get the glaze extra caramelized?
For a perfectly caramelized finish, broil the ham for the last 3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye to avoid burning, but this step adds gorgeous color and a delightful crunch to the glaze.
Final Thoughts
There is something so rewarding about presenting a Perfect Holiday Ham with Pineapple & Brown Sugar Recipe that’s not only stunning but packed with layers of flavor that everyone will love. Whether this becomes your new holiday tradition or a special treat for any occasion, I can’t recommend it enough — it’s a dish that brings warmth, joy, and a sweet-savory celebration to every bite. So go ahead, try it out and watch your holiday table come alive with smiles and compliments!
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Perfect Holiday Ham with Pineapple & Brown Sugar Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins
- Yield: 12–14 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A classic holiday ham baked to perfection with a sweet and savory glaze made from brown sugar, pineapple rings, honey, and Dijon mustard, resulting in a beautifully caramelized, tender, and flavorful centerpiece perfect for festive occasions.
Ingredients
Ham and Toppings
- 1 cooked ham (8–10 lb)
- 1 can pineapple rings
- Whole cloves (optional, for securing pineapple rings)
Glaze
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat and Score: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern about ¼ inch deep; this allows the glaze to penetrate and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Arrange Pineapple Rings: Lay the pineapple rings evenly over the scored surface of the ham. If using, secure each pineapple ring with a whole clove, pressing it gently through the pineapple into the ham to hold it in place.
- Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, honey, and Dijon mustard until well combined. This mixture will create a luscious, sticky glaze that complements the savory ham perfectly.
- Apply Glaze: Pour the glaze evenly over the ham, making sure it covers the entire surface and seeps into the scored cuts. This helps the flavors meld during baking.
- Bake the Ham: Place the ham in a roasting pan and bake in the preheated oven for 1½ to 2 hours. Every 30 minutes, baste the ham generously with the pan juices and remaining glaze to develop a rich, caramelized crust.
- Optional Caramelization: For an extra caramelized finish, switch the oven to broil in the last 3 minutes of baking; watch carefully to prevent burning while the glaze crisps beautifully.
- Rest and Serve: Once done, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is moist and tender. Slice and serve.
Notes
- Use the pineapple juice from the can to add to the glaze or pan drippings for extra flavor.
- Broiling at the end helps to caramelize the glaze and adds a lovely golden crust.
- If whole cloves are not preferred, toothpicks can be used to secure pineapple rings.
- Resting the ham after baking is essential for juicy slices.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 2 hrs
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
