This pineapple-glazed ham is a show-stopping main dish that combines smoky, savory ham with a sweet and tangy pineapple-brown sugar glaze. Perfect for holidays, Sunday dinners, or special occasions, it features caramelized pineapple rings and a golden glaze that brings festive flavor to every bite.
For the ham:
1 fully cooked bone-in ham (8–10 lbs)
Pineapple rings (canned or fresh)
Maraschino cherries (optional)
Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
For the glaze:
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup pineapple juice (from the canned pineapple or fresh)
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham in a large roasting pan, cut side down.
Step 2: Score the ham
Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a crisscross diamond pattern. This helps the glaze penetrate deeper into the meat.
Step 3: Make the glaze
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine:
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup pineapple juice
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Simmer the mixture for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Glaze the ham
Brush half of the glaze over the surface of the ham. Cover the ham loosely with foil.
Step 5: Bake the ham
Bake the ham in the preheated oven for about 1.5 hours, basting every 30 minutes with more of the glaze.
Step 6: Add pineapple and cherries
In the last 30 minutes of baking, arrange pineapple rings on the ham using toothpicks. Add maraschino cherries in the center of each ring if desired. Baste again and return to the oven uncovered to allow the glaze to caramelize.
Step 7: Final cook and rest
Continue baking uncovered until the internal temperature of the ham reaches 140°F (60°C). Remove from oven and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Step 8: Garnish and serve
Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs. Slice and serve warm.
You can substitute fresh pineapple juice for more natural flavor.
If you prefer a thicker glaze, simmer the mixture a few minutes longer.
Avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to prevent drying out the ham.
This recipe uses no alcohol and no pork bacon.
Leftovers can be used in sliders, breakfast hash, or ham fried rice.
Find it online: https://claradelish.com/pineapple-glazed-ham/