When you’re hosting a holiday meal or any large gathering, a Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham is a reliable centerpiece that offers straightforward preparation and rich, satisfying flavors. The balance of sweet pineapple and caramelized brown sugar delivers an indulgent glaze that complements the savory ham beautifully.
- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Servings: 12
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simplifies feeding a crowd with minimal fuss.
- Uses pantry staples like canned pineapple and brown sugar.
- The glaze provides an impressive finish that’s both sweet and tangy.
- Leftovers make excellent sandwiches or additions to casseroles.
Ingredients
- 1 (6 pound) fully-cooked, bone-in ham: The centerpiece protein that is enhanced by the glaze. Look for a quality ham, as it’s the base of the dish.
- 1 (8 ounce) can pineapple rings: Adds a visual appeal and sweetness to the ham. In a pinch, use fresh pineapple slices.
- 2 (6 ounce) cans pineapple juice: Provides the tangy acidity for the glaze. Orange juice can be a substitute if needed.
- 2 cups brown sugar, divided: Responsible for the caramelization process, giving the ham its characteristic sweet crust.
- 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple: Infuses the glaze with texture and fruity sweetness, enhancing flavor complexity.
How to Make It
Step 1: Prepare the Ham
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove any packaging from the ham, rinse under cool water, and pat dry. This helps remove excess salt and allows the glaze to adhere better.
Step 2: Create the Pineapple Glaze
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup of brown sugar, crushed pineapple, and pineapple juice. Stir to dissolve the sugar, simmering until the mixture becomes slightly thick. This reduction intensifies the flavors, making it a sticky glaze.
Step 3: Glaze the Ham
Place the ham in a large roasting pan, score the surface in a diamond pattern, and stud with cloves for added aroma (optional). Spoon the pineapple glaze over the top, ensuring it covers all exposed surfaces.
Step 4: Bake the Ham
Cover the ham with foil and bake in the preheated oven. Every 30 minutes, uncover and baste with accumulated juices. This continuous basting creates a glossy, flavorful coating. Bake until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Once baked, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15 to 20 minutes. This rest period allows the juices to redistribute. Slice and serve with remaining glaze drizzled over top.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this glaze with fresh pineapple?
Yes, fresh pineapple can be used. Simply chop finely and use along with pineapple juice or blend fresh pineapple and strain for juice.
How do I store leftover ham?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Ham can also be frozen for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What side dishes go well with this ham?
Consider pairing this ham with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad. These sides complement the ham’s sweetness while providing balance to the meal.
