Pineapple Glaze for Ham

A Sweet and Tangy Twist on a Classic Dish

Ham is a staple at holiday gatherings, family dinners, and special occasions. But if you’re looking for a way to elevate your classic ham recipe, this Pineapple Glaze for Ham is the perfect way to add a delightful balance of sweetness and tang. This glaze not only enhances the natural flavors of ham but also creates a beautiful caramelized coating that’s hard to resist.

Whether you’re cooking for Easter, Christmas, Thanksgiving, or just a weekend feast, this pineapple-glazed ham is a showstopper. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare with just a handful of pantry staples.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
  • Perfectly Balanced Flavor – The combination of pineapple, brown sugar, and honey creates a sweet yet slightly tangy glaze.
  • Versatile – Great for any occasion, from formal dinners to casual gatherings.
  • Impressive Presentation – The glossy, caramelized glaze makes for a stunning centerpiece.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious pineapple glaze and ham, you will need:

  • 1 boneless fully cooked ham (about 3 pounds)
  • ¼ cup water
  • 1 (8-ounce) can of crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • ¼ cup honey
  • 1 teaspoon spicy brown mustard
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Baking sheet
  • Aluminum foil
  • Cooking spray
  • Small saucepan
  • Basting brush (optional)
  • Meat thermometer
  • Gravy boat (for serving the glaze)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly coat it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Bake the Ham

Place the ham flat side down on the prepared pan. Add ¼ cup of water to the bottom of the pan to keep the ham moist. Cover the ham with foil and bake for 1 ½ hours.

3. Make the Pineapple Glaze

While the ham is baking, prepare the glaze:

  1. In a small saucepan, combine crushed pineapple, brown sugar, honey, mustard, salt, and cornstarch.
  2. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until the mixture starts to bubble.
  3. Once fully bubbling, continue stirring and let it simmer for 1 more minute.

4. Glaze the Ham

  1. Remove the ham from the oven and take off the foil.
  2. Pour the warm pineapple glaze evenly over the ham.
  3. Cover the ham again with foil and return it to the oven.
  4. Bake for another 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
  5. If desired, baste the ham occasionally with the glaze.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the ham from the pan and slice it. Pour the remaining glaze from the roasting pan into a gravy boat for serving. Enjoy this flavorful, caramelized ham with your favorite side dishes.

Tips for the Best Pineapple-Glazed Ham

  • Use a meat thermometer – Ensure the ham reaches 145°F for the best texture and safety.
  • For extra caramelization, broil the ham for the last 5 minutes uncovered.
  • Swap the mustard – Try Dijon mustard for a smoother taste or whole-grain mustard for extra texture.
  • Make it spicier – Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a teaspoon of chili flakes for some heat.

Storage and Leftovers

Refrigeration: Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing: Wrap sliced ham tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 325°F for about 10 minutes, covered with foil.

Food and Drink Pairings

This pineapple-glazed ham pairs wonderfully with:

  • Side Dishes: Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, cornbread, mac and cheese.
  • Drinks: A crisp white wine like Riesling or Chardonnay, or a refreshing pineapple-infused cocktail.
  • Desserts: Pineapple upside-down cake or a light citrus sorbet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes! If using fresh pineapple, finely chop or blend it until it reaches a similar consistency to canned crushed pineapple.

What type of ham works best for this recipe?

A fully cooked boneless ham works well, but you can also use a bone-in ham for extra flavor.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the glaze a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before applying it to the ham.

How do I make this glaze thicker?

If you prefer a thicker glaze, let it simmer longer or add an extra ½ teaspoon of cornstarch.

Final Thoughts

This Pineapple Glaze for Ham is the perfect way to add a sweet and tangy twist to your traditional holiday ham. Whether you’re making it for a festive gathering or a Sunday family dinner, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table.

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