There’s something undeniably heartwarming about the scent of a Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham wafting through the kitchen, especially during the holiday season. I still remember the first time I set this succulent centerpiece on the table—everyone’s eyes lit up, drawn in by the glossy, caramelized glaze and the sweet, tropical aroma that enveloped the room. This dish marries the savory richness of ham with the lush sweetness of ripe pineapple and dark brown sugar, creating a feast that not only tastes delicious but also feels incredibly festive.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday potluck or simply want to impress your family with minimal fuss, this recipe is your ticket to a stunning meal without the hassle. Just pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen as it bakes to perfection. Easy to prepare yet packed with flavor, this Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham is bound to become a cherished part of your celebration traditions.
Why is Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham a Must-Try?
Irresistible aroma: Imagine the fragrant notes of caramelized pineapple and brown sugar filling your home.
Effortless preparation: This dish requires minimal hands-on time, allowing you to enjoy your gathering.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for holiday parties, it’s a dish that will leave guests raving.
Sweet and savory delight: The glaze strikes a beautiful balance, making every bite a sweet surprise.
Versatile serving options: Pair it with roasted veggies or a refreshing salad for a complete meal.
Transform your celebrations into memorable feasts with this easy-to-make yet festive centerpiece!
Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create this mouthwatering Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham, perfect for your festive gathering!
For the Ham
- Ham (sliced) – This is your main ingredient, so choose a quality ham like a quarter cut for easier serving.
For the Glaze
- Pineapple (fresh or canned, crushed or slices) – Adds natural sweetness and moisture; ensure canned pineapple is well-drained for the best flavor.
- Dark Brown Sugar – Provides a deep, rich sweetness that complements the ham beautifully; can be replaced with light brown sugar, but the taste will be milder.
- Dijon Mustard – Offers a tangy kick that balances the sweetness of the glaze; feel free to substitute with yellow mustard if that’s what you have.
- Honey or Maple Syrup – Optional, but these ingredients can enhance the glaze’s sweetness and flavor complexity—tweak to your taste!
- Spices (e.g., cloves, nutmeg) – These warm spices deepen the glaze’s flavor; adjust based on what you have in your pantry.
Dive into the delightful process of crafting this sticky, sweet masterpiece, and elevate your holiday feast with the wonderful flavors of Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham!
How to Make Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham
-
Preheat the oven: Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature prepares the perfect environment for the ham to cook evenly and develop that lovely glaze.
-
Mix the glaze: In a mixing bowl, combine dark brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and any spices you prefer. Stir together until well-blended, creating a thick, sweet mixture that will coat your ham beautifully.
-
Score the ham: Using a sharp knife, carefully score the surface of the sliced ham in a crisscross pattern. This step allows the glaze to seep into the meat, infusing it with flavor and ensuring a delightful caramelized crust.
-
Place the ham in a dish: Transfer the scored ham to a baking dish, ensuring it’s centered for even cooking. The dish should be large enough to catch all the delicious drippings as it bakes.
-
Glaze the ham: Generously apply the prepared glaze over the ham, making sure to get it into all the scored areas. Watching the glaze ooze into those cuts is a promise of flavor in every slice!
-
Bake the ham: Place the dish in your preheated oven and let it bake for about 50 minutes. Baste the ham every 15 minutes with the drippings, keeping it moist and enhancing the flavor during the cooking process.
-
Rest and serve: Once the ham is beautifully caramelized and heated through, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is tender and juicy.
Optional: Garnish with fresh pineapple slices for an extra tropical touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham
-
Fridge: Store leftover ham in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and prevents it from drying out.
-
Freezer: You can freeze leftover Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to maintain flavor and texture.
-
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the ham overnight in the fridge. This ensures it defrosts evenly and safely.
-
Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F (163°C), covered with foil, for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through, to keep it moist and delicious.
What to Serve with Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham?
The festive spirit comes alive when you pair this sticky indulgence with sides that enhance its sweet and savory flavors.
-
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture of mashed potatoes provides a comforting counterpoint to the sweetness of the ham, making every bite satisfying.
-
Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A medley of colorful veggies roasted with garlic adds a crunchy texture and earthy flavors that beautifully balance the indulgence of the ham.
-
Fresh Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, citrus segments, and a tangy vinaigrette brightens the plate, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich glaze.
-
Honey-Glazed Carrots: These tender carrots, lightly sweetened, echo the ham’s flavors and add a delightful pop of color to your meal.
-
Heat-Infused Pineapple Salsa: This zesty salsa pulls double duty, adding tropical brightness and a spicy kick that complements the sticky glaze.
-
Apple Chutney: The warm sweetness and tang of chutney bring depth to your feast, enhancing every bite with a burst of flavor.
-
Sparkling Cider or Wine: A chilled glass of sparkling cider or a light white wine rounds off the meal perfectly, enhancing the flavors without overpowering them.
Unleash your creativity and create a memorable spread that celebrates the star of your table!
Expert Tips for Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham
-
Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) for perfectly cooked, tender ham. Overcooking can lead to dryness.
-
Baste Frequently: Basting every 15 minutes helps the glaze penetrate and keeps the ham moist. Don’t skip this step!
-
Choose the Right Ham: Opt for a quarter ham as it makes serving easier. Avoid hams that are overly processed to enhance flavor.
-
Adjust the Glaze: Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger for a warm spice note that complements the Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham beautifully.
-
Check the Dripping: Make sure to place the ham in a dish that captures all the flavorful drippings. This can double as a base for a delicious sauce!
-
Plan for Leftovers: Leftover ham is fantastic for sandwiches or salads, so don’t hesitate to make a bit extra for easy meals after your festivities.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing this Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham ahead of time is a game-changer for busy home cooks! You can mix the glaze and score the ham up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate the wrapped ham and glaze separately to keep everything fresh and flavorful. If you prefer, you can also bake the ham ahead of time—just let it cool completely, then slice and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat the ham in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, basting with fresh glaze during the last few minutes to retain that sticky, delicious quality. This way, you’ll enjoy all the flavors without the last-minute rush!
Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham Variations
Feel free to make this festive dish your own with these delightful twists that will surprise your taste buds!
-
Dairy-Free: Swap honey for agave syrup to keep it vegan-friendly without sacrificing sweetness.
-
Fruit Alternative: Replace pineapple with mango for a tropical twist that brings a unique flavor profile to the glaze.
-
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the glaze for an exciting heat that balances the sweetness.
-
Herb-Infused: Toss in fresh rosemary or thyme into your glaze to infuse herbal notes that contrast beautifully with the sweet ham.
-
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into the glaze for a warm, smoky undertone that deepens the flavor complexity.
-
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts over the glaze during the last 10 minutes of baking for added texture and richness.
-
Maple Variation: Substitute dark brown sugar with maple sugar for a distinctly sweet and nutty flavor that enhances the glaze.
-
Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the glaze to brighten the sweetness and infuse the dish with a refreshing citrus aroma.
Experiment with these variations to craft a Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham that perfectly suits your palate and makes your celebration even more memorable!
Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham Recipe FAQs
What type of ham is best for this recipe?
I recommend using a quarter ham, as it’s easier to serve and allows for great flavor absorption. Look for a high-quality, minimally processed ham for the best results.
How should I store leftovers of Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham?
Absolutely! Store any leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s well-sealed to keep all those delicious flavors intact.
Can I freeze Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham?
Yes, you can! Wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and it will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
How do I know if my ham is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 140°F (60°C) for optimal flavor and tenderness. If you find it hasn’t reached that temperature yet, continue baking and checking periodically.
Can I use other fruits instead of pineapple?
Very much! If you want to switch things up, try substituting with mango or apricot. Just be sure the fruit is ripe to ensure that delightful sweetness shines through in the glaze.
Is there a way to adjust this recipe for dietary concerns?
Certainly! If you’re avoiding added sugars, consider using a sugar substitute or reducing the amount of brown sugar. For gluten-free needs, ensure that the Dijon mustard you choose is gluten-free, and enjoy this tasty dish without worry!
Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham for Memorable Feasts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine dark brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and any spices you prefer. Mix well.
- Score the surface of the sliced ham in a crisscross pattern.
- Transfer the scored ham to a baking dish.
- Generously apply the prepared glaze over the ham.
- Bake the ham for about 50 minutes, basting every 15 minutes.
- Let the ham rest for a few minutes before slicing.