Baked Ham with Pineapple and Brown Sugar Glaze

Looking for the perfect centerpiece for your holiday table? Look no further than Baked Ham with Pineapple and Brown Sugar Glaze. This timeless recipe combines the savory flavor of ham with the sweet, tangy notes of pineapple and a luscious brown sugar glaze. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas dinner, Easter brunch, or a festive gathering, this dish will leave your guests raving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Easy to Make: With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
2. Versatile: Works for any special occasion or family dinner.
3. Crowd-Pleaser: The sweet and savory combination is a universal favorite.

Ingredients

To create this flavorful baked ham, you’ll need:

• 1 bone-in ham (8–10 lbs)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• Pineapple rings (canned or fresh)
• Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
• Place the ham in a roasting pan, flat side down. Score the surface in a diamond pattern to allow the glaze to seep in.

Step 2: Make the Glaze

• In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, pineapple juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves.
• Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly.

Step 3: Apply the Glaze

• Brush the ham generously with the glaze, ensuring it gets into the scored cuts.
• Arrange pineapple rings on the ham, securing them with toothpicks. Add a maraschino cherry to the center of each pineapple ring for a festive touch.

Step 4: Bake the Ham

• Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 15–20 minutes per pound, basting with glaze every 30 minutes.
• Remove the foil for the last 30 minutes to allow the ham to brown and caramelize.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

• Let the ham rest for 15–20 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or dinner rolls.

Tips for the Perfect Baked Ham

1. Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) for fully cooked ham.
2. Don’t Skip the Basting: Regular basting ensures a flavorful, caramelized crust.
3. Save the Drippings: Use the pan juices to make a delicious gravy or drizzle over the sliced ham.

Pairings and Serving Suggestions

This Baked Ham with Pineapple and Brown Sugar Glaze pairs beautifully with:

• Sweet Potato Casserole
• Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
• Roasted Asparagus
• Classic Dinner Rolls

For a festive drink pairing, try a sparkling apple cider or a light white wine like Riesling.

Why It’s a Holiday Favorite

The combination of the juicy ham, caramelized pineapple, and sweet glaze creates a harmonious blend of flavors. The vibrant presentation, with golden brown crust and colorful pineapple-cherry garnish, makes it a stunning centerpiece for any table.

Make It Today!

Elevate your holiday menu with this Baked Ham with Pineapple and Brown Sugar Glaze. It’s a foolproof recipe that delivers on both flavor and presentation. Whether it’s your first time hosting or you’re a seasoned pro, this dish is sure to impress your guests and leave lasting memories.

Serving and Storage Tips for Baked Ham with Pineapple and Brown Sugar Glaze

Serving Tips

1. Slicing the Ham:
   • When serving, slice the ham against the grain to ensure tender, easy-to-eat pieces. For a more elegant presentation, cut the slices in thin, even portions.
2. Serving Temperature:
   • Baked ham is best served warm. Allow the ham to rest for 15–20 minutes after removing it from the oven to retain its juices and ensure the flavors are well absorbed. You can cover the ham loosely with foil to keep it warm while you prepare the rest of the meal.
3. Garnishing:
   • For an extra touch, you can garnish your ham with additional pineapple rings, fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley, or even crushed pecans for a bit of texture.
   • Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and crispy dinner rolls make excellent accompaniments to the sweetness and richness of the ham.
4. Leftover Glaze:
   • Don’t discard the leftover glaze. Drizzle it over sliced ham for additional flavor or save it as a sauce for other dishes like roasted vegetables or even grilled chicken.

Storage Tips

1. Storing Leftovers:
   • Allow the ham to cool completely before storing.
   • Wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to preserve its moisture.
   • Place the wrapped ham in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag to prevent air exposure and avoid drying out.
2. Refrigerating:
   • Store the ham in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. Make sure the temperature is at or below 40°F (4°C).
3. Freezing Leftovers:
   • If you want to keep the ham longer, you can freeze leftovers. Slice the ham before freezing for easier reheating.
   • Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil or place in freezer-safe bags. The ham can be frozen for up to 2–3 months.
4. Reheating:
   • To reheat, place slices of ham in a covered baking dish with a little pineapple juice or water to keep it moist. Heat in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until warmed through.
   • You can also reheat ham slices in the microwave, but be sure to cover the slices with a damp paper towel to avoid drying them out.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of Baked Ham with Pineapple and Brown Sugar Glaze for days, making it a convenient and tasty option for multiple meals.

1. Can I use a boneless ham for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute a boneless ham for a bone-in ham in this recipe. Boneless ham tends to cook more quickly, so be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, typically reducing it by about 15–20 minutes per pound.

2. How can I make the glaze thicker?

If you prefer a thicker glaze, simply continue to cook the mixture over medium heat until it reaches your desired consistency. You can also mix in a small amount of cornstarch (dissolved in water) and stir until the glaze thickens to your liking.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ham and glaze a day in advance. Store the glazed ham in the refrigerator (without baking) and the glaze in a separate container. On the day of serving, bake the ham and apply the glaze during the final stages of cooking.

4. What can I do with leftover ham?

Leftover ham can be used in a variety of dishes, including ham sandwiches, ham and cheese quiche, ham salad, or soups. You can also serve it alongside eggs for a delicious breakfast or use it in casseroles and pasta dishes.

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