Juicy, tender, and coated in a glossy glaze, this Baked Ham with Pineapple and Brown Sugar is a celebration on a plate. Whether you're hosting a festive dinner or just want to impress your family, this recipe is guaranteed to bring smiles.
This recipe uses simple ingredients and easy techniques, making it ideal even for beginner cooks. The glaze combines pineapple juice, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard, which caramelises in the oven for a rich, glossy finish.
One of the best parts of this recipe is its versatility. You can adjust the sweetness, add spices, or include herbs to make it your own. The optional garnishes—pineapple rings and cherries—add festive colour and presentation.
Beyond the main meal, this ham gives you incredible leftovers. Use slices for sandwiches, dice into omelettes, or chop for fried rice. It’s not only delicious but practical, making it a favourite for both planned events and casual dinners.
Whether you're hosting Easter brunch, christmas dinner, or a birthday celebration, this ham recipe fits the occasion. Guests will love the bold flavours, and you’ll love how easy it is to prepare. This is one recipe you’ll revisit often occasion menu!
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
- Holiday Favourite: This baked ham is a traditional centrepiece that adds charm and warmth to every holiday meal.
- Sweet and Savoury Combo: The pineapple and brown sugar glaze perfectly balances sweet and savoury notes for a mouthwatering finish.
- Foolproof Preparation: Simple instructions and minimal ingredients make this recipe easy for cooks of any skill level.
- Gorgeous Presentation: The caramelised glaze gives the ham a golden, shiny finish that's beautiful on any serving platter.
- Family-Friendly: This recipe is a hit with both kids and adults, pleasing everyone at the table.
- Great for Leftovers: Enjoy delicious leftovers in sandwiches, breakfast skillets, or salads the next day.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pairs well with a wide range of side dishes, making meal planning super easy.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 fully-cooked bone-in or boneless ham (about 8–10 pounds)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 can (20 oz) sliced pineapple in juice
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves (optional)
- Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)
- Toothpicks (if using pineapple slices and cherries)
DIRECTIONS
- Step No.1: Preheat and prepare the ham
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham in a large roasting pan, cut side down. Score the surface lightly in a crisscross pattern.
- Step No.2: Make the glaze
In a bowl, mix brown sugar, ½ cup pineapple juice from the can, and Dijon mustard. Stir until smooth and combined well.
- Step No.3: Glaze and decorate
Brush the ham generously with the glaze. Optional: Attach pineapple slices and cherries using toothpicks for classic presentation.
- Step No.4: Bake the ham
Cover loosely with foil and bake for 1½ to 2 hours (or 15 minutes per pound), basting with glaze every 30 minutes.
- Step No.5: Finish with a caramelised top
Remove foil for the last 30 minutes to allow the glaze to thicken and caramelise. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Step No.6: Rest and slice
Remove from oven and let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with extra glaze if desired.
TIPS FOR SUCCESS
- Score Deeply but Carefully: Scoring allows the glaze to soak in and enhances presentation without drying out the meat.
- Use Real Pineapple Juice: Fresh or canned juice adds more flavor than artificial varieties—stick to 100% juice if using store-bought.
- Glaze Generously: Baste regularly to lock in moisture and develop a caramelized crust your guests will rave about.
- Tent with Foil: Covering the ham while baking ensures it stays juicy and heats evenly without burning the glaze.
- Choose Bone-In for Flavor: Bone-in hams stay moist and flavorful, making them ideal for roasting and presentation.
- Rest Before Serving: Allowing the ham to rest ensures juicier slices and easier carving for a cleaner presentation.
- Don’t Skip the Garnish: Pineapple rings and cherries enhance flavor and visual appeal—perfect for a festive holiday table.
VARIATIONS
- Maple Glaze Twist: Swap brown sugar for maple syrup for a deeper, earthy sweetness in the glaze.
- Spicy-Sweet Kick: Add chili flakes or cayenne to the glaze for a subtle heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweet pineapple.
- Citrus Zing: Use orange juice or lemon zest in the glaze for a tangy twist on the classic flavor profile.
- Honey Mustard Glaze: Combine honey and whole grain mustard for a bold, savory finish that’s delicious and different.
- Cranberry Garnish: Replace cherries with fresh cranberries for a tart burst and stunning color contrast.
- Clove-Stuffed Finish: Insert whole cloves into the scored ham for a fragrant, spiced touch that infuses the entire roast.
- Apple Cider Glaze: Use apple cider in place of pineapple juice for a fall-inspired variation perfect for Thanksgiving dinners.
SERVING AND STORAGE
Serving
Serve warm with roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or dinner rolls for a hearty, satisfying meal.
Storage
Wrap leftovers tightly and refrigerate up to 4 days, or freeze slices in airtight bags for up to 2 months.
FAQ
Yes, spiral-cut hams work well and absorb glaze better—just reduce bake time slightly and baste frequently.
You can use yellow mustard or even honey mustard as a substitute with a slightly different flavour.
Cloves are optional. They add a warm spice but can be skipped if preferred for a milder taste.
Yes. Bake it a day ahead, refrigerate, then reheat gently in foil-covered pan with added glaze before serving.
Classic sides include mashed potatoes, green beans, mac and cheese, and a fresh green salad.
This Baked Ham with Pineapple and Brown Sugar Glaze is a timeless dish that never goes out of style.
It’s rich, comforting, and bursting with balanced flavour.
You’ll love the sweet and savoury glaze that makes every bite juicy and full of character.
Whether it’s Christmas, Easter, or a sunday dinner, this ham brings the warmth of tradition to your table.
Even better, it’s easy to make and leaves room for creativity through simple variations.
From spicy twists to herbal notes, you can adjust it to your taste.
The leftovers are just as versatile—sandwiches, wraps, or hash—so nothing goes to waste.
This dish has become a centrepiece in many family celebrations, and it can become yours too.
BAKED HAM WITH PINEAPPLE AND BROWN SUGAR GLAZE
Ingredients
- 1 8–10 lb bone-in spiral ham
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- Pineapple slices optional, for garnish
- Maraschino cherries optional, for garnish
- Toothpicks if using garnish
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Place ham cut-side down in a large roasting pan.
Make the Glaze:
- In a saucepan, combine pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey, mustard, and cloves. Simmer over medium heat until thickened slightly, about 10 minutes.
Score and Glaze:
- Score the surface of the ham in a criss-cross pattern. Brush generously with half of the glaze.
Bake the Ham:
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for 1 ½ hours, basting with remaining glaze every 30 minutes.
Final Glaze and Garnish:
- Remove foil for the last 30 minutes to caramelize the glaze. Add pineapple rings and cherries with toothpicks, if using.
Rest and Serve:
- Let the ham rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Prepare the glaze a day ahead and store in the fridge.
- Flavor Variations: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a richer flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with scalloped potatoes, green beans, or dinner rolls.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Can also be frozen.
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