Pineapple Glazed Ham Delight

A glistening pineapple-glazed ham always signaled celebration in my childhood kitchen. The sweet sticky glaze fills the house with the cheeriest aromas and transforms simple ham into a showstopping centerpiece that is as perfect for holiday gatherings as it is for Sunday suppers.

The very first time I made this myself for Easter dinner everyone circled back for seconds—and there was not a single slice left by the end of the night.

Ingredients

• Fully cooked bone-in ham: Look for one with a good layer of fat for juiciness and flavor and let the butcher help you pick the right size for your guest count
• Brown sugar: Choose soft and fresh brown sugar for the most gooey caramelization
• Honey: I love using a mild floral honey for subtle sweetness and shine
• Pineapple juice: Fresh or canned both work well Opt for unsweetened if possible to balance the sugars
• Dijon mustard: Look for smooth strong Dijon for tang and depth
• Ground cloves: Just a tiny pinch is plenty for that classic hint of holiday warmth
• Pineapple rings: Canned rings are easy to arrange but fresh pineapple will give extra brightness
• Maraschino cherries: This is optional but makes for a classic retro look that kids love
• Fresh rosemary sprigs: Use bright green and fragrant sprigs for the perfect fresh garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Ham:

Score and place your ham. Set your oven to three hundred twenty five degrees Fahrenheit. Place the ham cut side down in a sturdy roasting pan. Use a sharp knife to carefully score the surface of the ham in a crisscross diamond pattern making shallow cuts that do not pierce too deep into the meat. This allows the glaze to sink in and flavors to infuse.

Make the Glaze:

Stir and simmer. Combine brown sugar honey pineapple juice Dijon mustard and ground cloves in a medium saucepan. Heat the mixture over medium flame stirring often until it bubbles and thickens just slightly this takes about four to five minutes. You want a syrupy consistency that will cling to the ham.

Apply the Glaze:

Brush and cover. Pour or generously brush half of the warm glaze all over the scored ham making sure to get it into the grooves. Cover the pan lightly with foil for gentle roasting but leave room so steam does not make the glaze watery.

Bake:

Roast and baste. Roast the ham in the center of the oven for about one and a half hours. Every thirty minutes remove the foil and baste the ham with more of your reserved glaze. This steady basting builds up a gorgeous glossy layer.

Add Pineapple Rings:

Decorate and caramelize. During the final half hour arrange pineapple rings across the top and sides of the ham pressing slightly to adhere. You can place a maraschino cherry in the center of each ring if you like. Return the ham to the oven uncovered and baste again. This last roast time helps the pineapple brown and edges turn caramel crisp.

Serve:

Rest and garnish. Remove the ham from the oven and let it stand for fifteen minutes. The juices will settle and slicing will be easier. Arrange fresh rosemary sprigs around the platter then carve thick or thin slices as you prefer.

Pineapple rings have always been my favorite part as they soak up sweet glaze and turn a deep golden brown My niece always insists on getting a ring with her first slice and that tradition just makes every shared meal even more special.

Storage Tips

Wrap leftover ham tightly in foil and it will keep fresh in the fridge for up to five days. Sliced ham is perfect for tucking into sandwiches using in omelets or layering over a simple salad. If you like you can save the ham bone for a future batch of soup.

Ingredient Substitutions

If fresh pineapple is not available canned works just as well and is a timesaver. Maple syrup can stand in for honey for a deeper flavor. If Dijon is too strong for your taste plain yellow mustard will mellow things out. Ground allspice or a tiny pinch of cinnamon is a nice twist if you do not have cloves.

Serving Suggestions

This bright tangy ham pairs beautifully with buttery mashed potatoes creamy mac and cheese or roasted sweet potatoes. Add a crisp green salad or glazed carrots for color and crunch. For gatherings display the ham whole on a platter surrounded by extra pineapple and rosemary for drama.

Cultural Context

Glazed hams have roots in both American and European celebratory tables often featured in springtime or Christmas feasts. Pineapple as a glaze ingredient became popular in midcentury America as a symbol of hospitality and festive cheer. Our family calls this the centerpiece ham and it always draws everyone to the table for the first slice.

Seasonal Adaptations

Try using fresh orange juice for a wintery twist. Swap rosemary for flatleaf parsley for a lighter look in summer. For fall holidays add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the glaze.

A few helpful notes

Pineapple juice helps tenderize the ham along with its sweet flavor. Do not skip basting every half hour as this builds the deep lacquered crust. Letting the ham rest after roasting keeps it juicy and easy to slice.

Success Stories

My friend once made this for a baby shower and it vanished before the main course even started. Neighbors still ask me for this recipe each time they spot a ham and pineapple combo at the grocery store. Even small leftovers make legendary grilled cheese sandwiches.

Freezer Meal Conversion

Wrap slices tightly or cube the ham and place in freezer bags. Label and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and gently rewarm with a few spoonfuls of leftover glaze for next week's dinner.

Each holiday my kitchen fills with sweet pineapple and smoky ham scents I cannot help but sneak a slice before dinner every year. This recipe’s beauty is how a handful of easy ingredients and some care create not just flavor but family memories.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do you keep ham juicy while baking?

Cover the ham with foil during baking and baste frequently with glaze to retain moisture and ensure tenderness.

→ When should pineapple rings be added?

Add pineapple rings and optional cherries during the last 30 minutes of roasting for caramelization.

→ What cut of ham is best for this dish?

A fully cooked bone-in ham develops the most flavor, especially when scored for glaze absorption.

→ Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pineapple rings can be substituted for canned, offering a more vibrant and natural flavor.

→ How is the glaze prepared?

The glaze combines brown sugar, honey, pineapple juice, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves, simmered to thicken slightly.

→ Do I need to let ham rest before slicing?

Allow the ham to rest for 15 minutes before slicing to ensure juicy, tender pieces and easier slicing.