Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This honey-glazed baked ham with pineapple is sweet, savory, and incredibly juicy. The caramelized glaze paired with tangy pineapple creates that classic holiday flavor everyone loves. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for family dinners, celebrations, or special occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients List
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 2–3 kg)
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- Whole cloves (optional)
- Pineapple slices (fresh or canned)
- Maraschino cherries (optional)
Ingredient Tips
- Use a spiral-cut ham for easier serving
- Pat the ham dry before glazing
- Balance sweetness with a touch of mustard or vinegar
How to Make Honey-Glazed Ham (Step by Step)
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 160°C (325°F). Place the ham in a roasting pan lined with foil.
Step 2: Score & Decorate
Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. Insert cloves if using. Arrange pineapple slices on top and secure with toothpicks. Add cherries in the center if desired.
Step 3: Make the Glaze
In a saucepan, combine pineapple juice, honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and cinnamon. Simmer until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Bake the Ham
Brush the ham generously with glaze. Cover loosely with foil and bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 20–30 minutes.
Step 5: Caramelize the Top
Remove foil during the last 20 minutes. Brush more glaze and let the top caramelize until golden and sticky.
Step 6: Rest & Serve
Let the ham rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Spoon extra glaze over the top when serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Roasted potatoes
- Steamed vegetables
- Fresh salad
- Dinner rolls or bread
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days
- Reheat gently with a bit of juice to keep moist
- Freeze slices for up to 1 month
Variations You Can Try
- Add orange juice for a citrus twist
- Use maple syrup instead of honey
- Spice it up with a pinch of chili flakes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned pineapple?
Yes, canned pineapple works perfectly and adds extra sweetness.
How do I keep ham from drying out?
Cover with foil and baste regularly during baking.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and glaze the ham in advance, then reheat before serving.
Final Thoughts
This honey-glazed baked ham with pineapple is a timeless dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. The balance of sweet and savory makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for holidays or weekend meals.
