Name: Savor the Sweetness of Sticky Pineapple Brown Glazed Ham
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 65 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 1 whole Ham (bone-in or boneless based on preference); 1 cup Pineapple (fresh or canned variations work beautifully); 1 cup Dark Brown Sugar (provides deep caramel flavor); 1/4 cup Dijon Mustard (can substitute with yellow mustard for milder taste); to taste Additional Seasonings (e.g., cinnamon, cloves)

There’s something magical about the aroma of Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham wafting through the house, inviting everyone to gather around the table. This delightful holiday dish combines the juicy sweetness of pineapple with the rich, caramel flavor of dark brown sugar, creating a memorable centerpiece for any festive gathering. With just a few common pantry staples, you can whip up this easy, succulent ham that marries savory and sweet to perfection. Plus, it’s not just a showstopper; it also promises minimal fuss and maximum flavor, making it a family favorite that even the busiest home chefs can master. Are you ready to elevate your holiday meals with this irresistible recipe? Let’s dive into the magic of roasting ham together!

What makes this ham recipe irresistible?

Simplicity at its finest: With just a handful of common pantry staples, you can create a stunning main dish that looks and tastes gourmet. Irresistible flavor: The combination of sweet pineapple and rich brown sugar brings a delightful harmony of tastes that will leave your guests wanting more. Versatile to your liking: Feel free to substitute fruits or add spices for a personalized touch. Crowd-pleaser: This Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham is sure to impress family and friends, making it the star of any holiday feast. Pair it with seasonal sides, such as Carrots Maple Thyme, for a well-rounded dinner experience!

Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham Ingredients

For the Ham

Ham – Your main protein; choose a bone-in or boneless option based on preference.

For the Glaze

Pineapple – Adds a sweet and juicy element, with fresh or canned variations both working beautifully.
Dark Brown Sugar – Provides deep caramel flavor; light brown sugar can be a milder substitute for a different sweetness.
Dijon Mustard – Enhances the glaze with a zesty kick; yellow mustard can be used if a milder taste is desired.
Additional Seasonings (e.g., cinnamon, cloves) – These spices can add warmth and complexity to the flavor profile; adjust based on your taste.

This Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham is a delicious choice for your holiday meal, bringing sweet and savory together for an unforgettable dish!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

Step 1: Prep the Ham
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take your ham and using a sharp knife, score the surface in a crisscross pattern, about half an inch deep. This will not only allow the glaze to penetrate, but it also creates a beautiful presentation. Place the scored ham in a roasting pan lined with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix the Glaze
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the pineapple juice, dark brown sugar, and dijon mustard. Whisk together until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture is smooth, creating a luscious, sweet glaze for your Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham. The delightful aromas will have your mouth watering already!

Step 3: Coat the Ham
Generously pour the glaze over the scored ham, ensuring every crevice is filled with that sweet goodness. Use a brush or a spoon to spread the glaze evenly all over the ham. As you coat it, the fragrant mixture will start to infuse, setting the stage for that perfect caramelized finish.

Step 4: Bake the Ham
Cover the roasting pan tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and place it in the oven. Bake for 50 minutes, uncovering for the last 15 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize beautifully. Baste the ham with the juices from the pan every 15 minutes to keep it moist and enhance the flavor throughout the baking process.

Step 5: Finish and Serve
Once baked, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. This brief resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender slices. Carefully slice the ham, draping each piece with the sticky glaze from the pan for the perfect presentation. Serve your Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham family-style, inviting everyone to enjoy the deliciousness together!

Make Ahead Options

These Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Hams are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the glaze up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the pineapple juice, dark brown sugar, and dijon mustard, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. The ham can also be scored a day prior, which allows the flavors to penetrate better during cooking. When ready to bake, simply apply the chilled glaze to the ham and follow the cooking instructions. This will save you precious time on your busy holiday, while still delivering a succulent dish that tastes just as delicious as if made fresh that day!

Expert Tips for Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

Score Deeply: Make sure to score the ham deep enough; this allows the glaze to really penetrate, enhancing flavor and tenderness.
Baste Regularly: Basting every 15 minutes is key to achieving a beautifully caramelized glaze that’s sticky and flavorful.
Monitor Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) to avoid overcooking and dryness in your Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham.
Rest Before Slicing: Let the ham rest for at least 10-15 minutes after baking; this helps the juices redistribute for the best texture.
Adjust Glaze Ingredients: Feel free to customize the glaze with spices or different fruit preserves, but always stick to the foundational sweetness for balance!
Use Aluminum Foil: Covering the ham with foil for most of the baking time helps retain moisture and ensures a juicy, flavorful result.

Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham Variations

Feel free to personalize your dish and explore these enticing variations that will elevate your sticky ham experience!

Tropical Twist: Add chopped fresh mango or diced peaches to the glaze for an exotic fruity flavor that brightens up the dish.
Lighten Up: Use honey instead of dark brown sugar for a lighter sweetness that complements the ham’s savory profile beautifully.
Citrus Zing: Incorporate fresh orange or lemon juice into the glaze for a refreshing brightness, balancing out the sweetness perfectly.
Spicy Kick: Stir in jalapeño or chipotle peppers for an adventurous heat that contrasts with the sweet glaze, transforming each bite into a flavor explosion.
Herby Infusion: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the glaze for an aromatic twist that enhances the ham’s savoriness.
Nutty Crunch: Toss in crushed pecans or walnuts in the last few minutes of baking for a satisfying crunchy texture that adds depth to the overall dish.
Maple Substitution: Swap the brown sugar for pure maple syrup for a uniquely rich and complex flavor profile that’s irresistibly delightful.
Savory Mix: Sprinkle a bit of smoked paprika or black pepper into the glaze for a depth of flavor that plays beautifully against the sweetness of the pineapple.

As you experiment with these variations, consider pairing your delectable ham with festive sides like Carrots Maple Thyme or a refreshing garden salad to create a balanced meal that’s sure to impress your guests!

Storage Tips for Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

Fridge: Store leftover ham slices in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring the glaze stays intact and flavorful.

Freezer: For longer preservation, wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing for up to 2 months to maintain texture and taste.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat the ham in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through, basting with reserved glaze for extra moisture and flavor.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the ham out for more than 2 hours after serving to ensure food safety and quality.

What to Serve with Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

Elevate your meal with delightful pairings that complement the sweet and savory goodness of your ham masterpiece.

Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes adds a colorful, earthy balance to the dish. The natural sweetness of the veggies complements the glaze perfectly, enhancing that home-cooked warmth.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they provide a rich contrast to the sticky texture of the ham. Each spoonful offers comfort, making every bite feel like a warm hug from your kitchen.
Savory Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed in garlic and butter bring a refreshing crunch. Their bright flavor cuts through the glaze’s sweetness, providing a delightful textural balance.
Herb Salad: A fresh salad of mixed greens, cucumber, and radishes drizzled with lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing zing. This lovely pairing lightens the richness of the ham while keeping it vibrant and satisfying.
Warm Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy rolls slathered with butter are perfect for mopping up any luscious glaze left on your plate. They add a comforting element to the meal that your guests will love.
Cranberry Sauce: A tart homemade cranberry sauce contrasts beautifully with the ham’s sweetness. This classic complement not only brightens the plate but also surprises your palate with its unexpected zing.

Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting a ham?
Absolutely! When choosing a ham, look for one that is well-marbled, which means it has a good amount of fat interspersed throughout the meat; this will ensure moistness and flavor. If you prefer a more traditional flavor, opt for a bone-in ham, as the bone adds extra richness. Whether you pick a whole, half, or boneless variety, make sure it feels firm but not hard, and the packaging should be intact without any leakage or heavy bruising.

How should I store leftover Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham?
Very good question! Store your leftover ham in an airtight container in the fridge, and it should stay fresh for up to 3 days. Ensure you cover the ham slices with their glaze to retain moisture and flavor. If you need to keep it longer, wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and pop it in the freezer. It can last up to 2 months this way!

Can I freeze Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham?
Yes, you can freeze it! Start by cutting the ham into individual portions for easier thawing later. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to keep them protected from freezer burns. To reheat, allow the ham to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C), adding a bit of reserved glaze over the top to keep it juicy.

What can I do if my glaze isn’t thick enough?
Great concern! If you find your glaze is too runny after baking, don’t fret. Simply pour it into a saucepan and simmer it over medium heat until it thickens, stirring occasionally. This usually takes about 5-10 minutes. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water) to help stabilize the glaze. Just bring it to a gentle boil after adding to ensure it thickens beautifully!

Is this ham recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! The Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham is a gluten-free dish since the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. However, be sure to check labels for any store-bought ingredients like dijon mustard or brown sugar. For those who are diabetic or watching their sugar intake, I recommend using a sugar substitute in moderation to create a healthier glaze while still enjoying the flavors.

Can I use fresh pineapple or is canned pineapple better for this recipe?
Great question! Both fresh and canned pineapple can be used interchangeably in this recipe. Fresh pineapple brings a vibrant flavor and texture, while canned pineapple is convenient and often sweeter, which is great for the glaze. If using fresh, be sure to blend or chop it finely to maximize the pineapple’s juice and flavor in the glaze. The more, the merrier, when it comes to enhancing that sweet, sticky finish!