The holiday season is often a whirlwind of gatherings and merriment, and there’s nothing quite like the aroma of a Baked Ham with Pineapple wafting through your home to set the perfect festive mood. Picture this: a tender, juicy ham adorned with succulent pineapple and a sweet brown sugar glaze that caramelizes to perfection. Just the thought makes my mouth water! This classic centerpiece not only brings warmth and joy to the table but is remarkably simple to prepare.
Whether you’re hosting family for the holidays or looking to impress friends at a potluck, this dish serves up stunning presentation and comforting flavors without keeping you tied to the kitchen all day. Trust me, your loved ones will be raving long after the last bite is devoured! So let’s dive into this easy recipe that combines tradition and taste, ensuring you spend less time cooking and more time celebrating.
Why is Baked Ham with Pineapple a Must-Try?
Irresistible aroma fills your home: The moment you slide this stunning ham into the oven, your kitchen will be surrounded by warm, enticing scents that signal the start of the holiday festivities.
Effortlessly Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this impressive centerpiece, giving you more time to enjoy with friends and family.
Classic Flavors: The sweet and savory combination of pineapple and ham creates a nostalgic taste that everyone will love.
Perfect for All Gatherings: This dish is an instant crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for holiday parties, family dinners, or potlucks.
Picture-Perfect Presentation: Garnished with vibrant pineapple rings and cherries, this beautifully glazed ham is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Prepare to elevate your holiday menu with this delightful Baked Ham with Pineapple recipe, ensuring every bite is met with joy!
Baked Ham with Pineapple Ingredients
For the Ham
• Bone-in Ham (6 to 8 pounds) – A fully cooked ham ensures a deliciously savory base for your meal.
For the Flavor
• Whole Cloves – These fragrant spices enhance the overall flavor profile for that cozy holiday warmth.
For the Glaze
• Canned Sliced Pineapple (20 ounces) – Provides juicy sweetness and moisture; rings create an elegant look. Swap for fresh pineapple if preferred.
• Brown Sugar (1/2 cup) – A key player in the glaze that caramelizes beautifully and adds irresistible sweetness.
For Garnish
• Maraschino Cherries (12) – Pops of color and sweetness; feel free to skip if you’d like a simpler look.
Gather all these ingredients to create a stunning Baked Ham with Pineapple that will leave your guests asking for seconds!
How to Make Baked Ham with Pineapple
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Preheat your oven to 325°F. This step sets the stage for perfectly cooked ham, ensuring it stays juicy and tender throughout the baking process.
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Score the surface of the ham by making shallow diagonal cuts to create a diamond pattern, then insert whole cloves into the cuts. This not only adds flavor but creates a beautiful presentation.
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Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes. This initial step allows the ham to warm through while retaining moisture.
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Drain the pineapple, reserving 1/4 cup of juice. Mix the brown sugar with the reserved juice to create a sweet glaze that will caramelize beautifully on the ham.
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Remove the foil after the initial baking time, then spoon the glaze over the ham. Arrange the pineapple rings and cherries on top, securing cherries in place if necessary for a festive look.
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Return the ham uncovered to the oven, baking for an additional 30 to 45 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 140°F. This final step gives the glaze a chance to bubble and become irresistibly sticky.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra touch of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Baked Ham with Pineapple?
Creating a memorable holiday meal doesn’t stop at the main dish; enhancing your feast with the right sides can make all the difference.
- Creamy Scalloped Potatoes: This rich, cheesy dish adds a comforting creaminess that beautifully contrasts the savory ham and sweet glaze.
- Green Bean Casserole: A classic that brings a crunchy texture and earthy flavor, balancing the sweetness of the Baked Ham.
- Sweet Glazed Carrots: Tender, glazed carrots provide a burst of color and a hint of sweetness that complements the overall palate.
- Herbed Rice Pilaf: Light and fluffy, this dish soaks up the juices from the ham, creating a delightful harmony at your table.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce offers a perfect counterpoint to the rich, sweet flavors of the ham and adds a festive touch.
- Warm Dinner Rolls: Fluffy rolls are perfect for mopping up delicious glaze left on the plate, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Apple Pie: For dessert, this timeless favorite pairs beautifully with the ham’s flavors, rounding out your meal with a comforting finish.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Baked Ham with Pineapple ahead of time can truly simplify your holiday cooking! You can score the ham, insert the cloves, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring it retains moisture. Additionally, mix the brown sugar and reserved pineapple juice to create the glaze, storing it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat your oven, place the ham in a roasting pan, and follow the baking instructions starting from step 3. This way, you’ll bake to perfection, delighting both you and your guests with minimal last-minute effort!
Baked Ham with Pineapple Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful dish and make it your own. Your kitchen deserves a sprinkle of imagination!
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Fresh Pineapple: Swap canned pineapple for fresh slices to add a vibrant, juicy flair to your ham. The freshness elevates the overall taste wonderfully.
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Bourbon Glaze: For a hint of sophistication, mix a splash of bourbon into the brown sugar glaze. This deepens the flavor profile with a rich, warm sweetness that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
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Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze for a zesty twist. This subtle heat balances the sweetness, creating a party of flavors that will surprise your guests.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in chopped fresh rosemary or thyme into the glaze for an aromatic boost. The herby notes will complement the ham’s richness and make it aromatic.
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Citrus Burst: A splash of orange juice in the glaze brightens up the flavors, adding an unexpected zing to every bite. It’s like sunshine on your holiday plate!
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Maple Syrup: Substitute brown sugar with maple syrup for a unique taste twist. This brings a warm, earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory ham.
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Apple Cider Glaze: Use apple cider instead of pineapple juice in the glaze for a deliciously fruity contrast. It creates a lovely tartness blending seamlessly with the ham.
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Nutty Crunch: Top the ham with toasted pecans or walnuts during the last 10 minutes of baking. This adds delightful texture and a toasty richness, making every slice extraordinary.
Expert Tips for Baked Ham with Pineapple
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Score Carefully: Lightly score the ham to avoid cutting too deep and losing moisture. You want a juicy Baked Ham with Pineapple for the best texture!
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Caramelize the Glaze: For a richer flavor, baste the ham with the glaze once or twice in the final baking phase. This helps develop a beautiful, sticky coat.
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Don’t Skip the Cloves: Inserting whole cloves not only enhances flavor but also offers a lovely presentation; don’t forget this simple but impactful step!
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Use Fresh Pineapple: If you’re looking to elevate the dish further, opt for fresh pineapple. It brings a bright, lively flavor to your Baked Ham.
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Store Leftovers Properly: Keep leftover ham sealed in airtight containers or wrapped tightly in foil to maintain freshness. Enjoy it in sandwiches or salads for days!
How to Store and Freeze Baked Ham with Pineapple
Room Temperature: Serve your Baked Ham with Pineapple immediately after cooking; avoid leaving it out for more than two hours to prevent spoilage.
Fridge: Store leftover ham in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in foil for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. This keeps it moist and flavorful for your next meal.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices of ham in airtight bags for up to 2 months. Make sure to label the bags with the date for easy organization.
Reheating: To enjoy leftover ham, reheat slices in a covered dish with a splash of reserved pineapple juice in the oven at 325°F until warmed through. This helps retain moisture in the Baked Ham with Pineapple.
Baked Ham with Pineapple Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ham for my Baked Ham with Pineapple?
Absolutely! Look for a bone-in ham that weighs between 6 to 8 pounds, ideally already fully cooked for convenience. Make sure the surface is smooth and moist, and avoid any that have dark spots or excessive drying out.
How can I store leftover Baked Ham with Pineapple?
Very simply! Place leftover ham in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep it in the coldest part of the fridge to maintain its moisture and flavor.
Can I freeze my leftover Baked Ham with Pineapple?
Most definitely! Slice the ham into portions, leaving a bit of glaze on each piece if possible. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap or freezer paper, then place them in airtight freezer bags. It will stay delicious for up to 2 months. Just date the bags for easy tracking!
What should I do if my glaze doesn’t caramelize?
If your glaze isn’t caramelizing, it might be because the oven temperature is too low or the ham was covered for too long during the final baking stage. Try uncovering the ham earlier to allow the glaze to bubble and thicken. Basting the ham every 15-20 minutes with the glaze can also enhance that sticky texture.
Is this Baked Ham with Pineapple safe for my allergies?
Always ensure you check ingredient labels! While this recipe is nut-free, it contains ham which may not be suitable for everyone. If you have dietary restrictions, substitutes like turkey ham or a carefully chosen vegetarian alternative can be used to create a similar festive dish.
How can I make my Baked Ham with Pineapple more flavorful?
To add extra flavor to your Baked Ham with Pineapple, consider injecting a mixture of pineapple juice and brown sugar into the ham before baking. For a layered spice profile, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze. This will enhance the complexity and warmth of the dish.
Irresistible Baked Ham with Pineapple for Holiday Feasts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F.
- Score the surface of the ham, insert whole cloves into the cuts.
- Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Drain the pineapple, reserving 1/4 cup of juice; mix brown sugar with reserved juice.
- Remove the foil, spoon the glaze over the ham, and arrange pineapple rings and cherries on top.
- Return the ham to the oven, baking for an additional 30 to 45 minutes until internal temperature reaches 140°F.