Meta Title: Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham Recipe – Juicy & Flavorful
Meta Description: Learn how to make a tender, juicy Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with a sweet-savory glaze. Perfect for holidays or family dinners, with step-by-step instructions.

A Ham That Brings Everyone Together

There’s something magical about a ham baking in the oven. The smell alone can transform your kitchen into a cozy, inviting space. You know the feeling: the chatter of family, the anticipation of slicing into that caramelized crust, the first bite melting in your mouth. That’s exactly what a Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham delivers — sweetness, warmth, and memories wrapped into one.

Whether it’s Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a special Sunday dinner, this ham isn’t just food. It’s the centerpiece that brings everyone to the table, sparking smiles, conversation, and that feeling of home.

Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

This isn’t just any ham recipe. Here’s why it stands out:

Perfectly balanced flavors: Sweet pineapple, rich brown sugar, tangy mustard, and warm spices.
Juicy and tender: Proper baking and glazing keeps your ham moist.
Visually stunning: Pineapple rings, maraschino cherries, and a glossy caramelized top create a showstopping centerpiece.
Easy for home cooks: Even if you’ve never made a holiday ham, this recipe guides you every step of the way.
Versatile: Great for holidays, gatherings, or a special Sunday dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a complete list of ingredients to make your Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham:

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Fully cooked spiral ham	1 (8–10 lb)	Bone-in for maximum flavor
Brown sugar	1 cup	Light or dark, depending on preference
Pineapple juice	1 cup	From canned pineapple slices or fresh
Pineapple slices	1 can (20 oz)	For topping and flavor
Maraschino cherries	12–15	Optional, for garnish
Dijon mustard	2 tbsp	Adds subtle tang
Honey	¼ cup	Adds shine and extra sweetness
Whole cloves	As needed	For studding ham
Cinnamon	½ tsp	Optional, for warmth

Pro Tip: Using high-quality ingredients makes a big difference in flavor and glaze texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Ham

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
Line a roasting pan with foil for easy cleanup.
Pat your ham dry with paper towels.
Score the top fat layer in a diamond pattern to allow the glaze to penetrate.
Insert whole cloves into the center of each diamond for flavor and a festive look.

Step 2: Make the Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine:
- Brown sugar
- Pineapple juice
- Honey
- Dijon mustard
- Cinnamon (if using)
Simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened slightly.

Step 3: Arrange Pineapple and Cherries

Place the ham in the roasting pan.
Arrange pineapple slices on top, securing each with a toothpick and placing a cherry in the center of each slice.

Step 4: Glaze and Bake

Brush the ham generously with glaze.
Cover loosely with foil to retain moisture.
Bake for 1½ to 2 hours, basting every 20–30 minutes with additional glaze.

Step 5: Caramelize the Top

During the last 20 minutes, remove foil for a caramelized crust.
Brush one final layer of glaze before serving for maximum shine and flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

Keep it moist: Cover with foil for most of the baking time and baste regularly.
Use a thermometer: Aim for an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) to heat without drying.
Warm glaze spreads better: Heat slightly before applying.
Rest before slicing: Let ham sit for 10–15 minutes after baking to retain juices.
Optional flavor boosts: Add orange juice, bourbon, or a pinch of nutmeg for extra depth.

Serving Suggestions

This ham pairs beautifully with classic sides:

Mashed or roasted potatoes – buttery and comforting.
Green beans or asparagus – add a touch of freshness.
Dinner rolls or cornbread – soak up extra glaze.
Fruit salad – balances the sweet-savory flavor.

Presentation Tip: Garnish the serving platter with pineapple slices, cherries, and a drizzle of leftover glaze.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Method	Instructions	Shelf Life
Refrigerator	Wrap tightly or store in an airtight container	4–5 days
Freezer	Slice and freeze with glaze in portions	Up to 2 months
Reheat	Oven at 325°F for 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual slices	Until warm

Pro Tip: Add a splash of pineapple juice when reheating to maintain moisture and flavor.

Variations and Leftover Ideas

Flavor Variations:

Spicy glaze: Add chili flakes or hot honey.
Tropical twist: Mix in crushed pineapple and coconut sugar.
Smoky maple: Substitute maple syrup for brown sugar and add smoked paprika.

Leftover Ideas:

Pineapple ham fried rice
Ham and cheese omelets
Hawaiian ham sliders
Creamy ham and potato soup

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overbaking – dries out ham.
Skipping the scoring – prevents glaze absorption.
Covering too tightly – stops caramelization.
Applying cold glaze – spreads unevenly.

FAQ: Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

What type of ham works best?

A fully cooked, bone-in spiral ham ensures juicy slices and easy serving.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, blend or simmer to extract juice for the glaze.

How do I keep the ham moist?

Bake covered, baste regularly, and add some glaze juice when reheating.

Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

Absolutely — store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

What sides complement this ham?

Creamy potatoes, roasted vegetables, and fresh salads balance the sweet and savory glaze.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	400 kcal
Protein	28 g
Carbohydrates	28 g
Sugar	18 g
Fat	18 g
Sodium	1100 mg

Values depend on ham size and glaze quantities.

Conclusion

A Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham is more than a meal — it’s an experience. Sweet, tangy, and tender, it’s perfect for holidays, special occasions, or simply elevating a family dinner. By following these steps, you can achieve a caramelized, flavorful ham that becomes the centerpiece of any table.

Bring your loved ones together, savor the rich aroma, and enjoy every bite. With this recipe, you’re not just cooking — you’re creating memories that will linger long after the last slice is gone.