As the sun sets and the aroma of sweet cherries mingled with smoky chipotle wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel an excitement bubbling inside me. This Cherry Chipotle Pineapple Glazed Ham is more than just a meal; it’s a centerpiece that has the power to elevate any gathering into a celebration. Inspired by my adventures in flavor experimentation, this dish allures your senses with its brilliant contrast of sweet and spicy.
Imagine the juicy spiral ham, bedecked with luscious pineapple slices glistening in syrup and crowned with maraschino cherries. It’s a showstopper that sings of warmth and togetherness—perfect for those cozy family dinners or festive occasions where memories are made. Whether you’re tired of fast food’s monotony or simply craving the unforgettable taste of homemade goodness, this recipe is here to rescue you.
Let’s dive into a world where grilling meets gourmet, all while keeping things delightfully simple. I promise, once you serve this dish, the compliments will flow as freely as the bourbon in the glaze!
Why is Cherry Chipotle Pineapple Glazed Ham a Must-Try?
Irresistible flavor fusion: This recipe marries smoky spice with sweet fruit for a taste explosion.
Centerpiece showstopper: The vibrant presentation makes it a stunning focal point for any table.
Easy preparation: Simple steps ensure that even novice cooks can impress their guests.
Versatile serving options: Perfect for holiday feasts or casual family dinners, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Make-ahead magic: Prepping in advance lets you enjoy the moment without stress.
For additional tips on making your gatherings unforgettable, don’t forget to check out our guide on entertaining with style.
Cherry Chipotle Pineapple Glazed Ham Ingredients
For the Ham
• Spiral ham – an 8 lbs ham brings juicy tenderness and is easy to carve.
For the Glaze
• Cherry chipotle seasoning – adds a smoky kick that complements the sweetness.
• Butter (salted) – helps to create a rich, glossy glaze.
• Chipotle puree – enhances the glaze with an extra layer of warmth.
• Bourbon – adds depth and complexity to the glaze’s flavor profile.
• Pineapple juice – brings sweetness and tang for balance.
• Maraschino cherry juice – boosts the cherry flavor in the glaze.
• Honey – introduces a natural sweetness that ties everything together.
For the Fruit Topping
• Sliced pineapple in heavy syrup – caramelizes beautifully on the ham while adding a juicy texture.
• Maraschino cherries – a classic addition that elevates both flavor and appearance.
How to Make Cherry Chipotle Pineapple Glazed Ham
-
Prepare the ham: Set your spiral ham with the cut open side facing you. This ensures easy access for seasoning and adding the toppings. A well-prepped ham is key to flavor!
-
Season generously: Sprinkle the cherry chipotle seasoning all over the ham, making sure to work it into every crevice. This step is crucial for infusing the ham with that deliciously smoky and slightly spicy flavor.
-
Add pineapple slices: Place pineapple slices on the back side of the ham, securing each one with toothpicks. These juicy rings not only contribute sweetness but also create an eye-catching presentation!
-
Garnish with cherries: Secure a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple slice using another toothpick. This adds a pop of color and a delightful burst of sweetness!
-
Set aside: Let the ham rest for a moment while you prepare the grill. It’s best to give it some time for the flavors to meld together.
-
Preheat the grill: Begin by preheating your grill for indirect cooking at 325°F. If you like, you can toss in some cherry wood chips to enhance the smoky flavor, adding an extra layer of deliciousness.
-
Cook the ham: Place the ham onto the smoker and cook for approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours. Trust your thermometer; you’re looking for an internal temperature of 145°F to ensure it’s perfectly cooked.
-
Prepare the glaze: As the ham nears completion, preheat a skillet to start on your glaze. This part will bring out the wonderful flavors in your ingredients!
-
Melt the butter: Add the salted butter to the skillet and allow it to melt. Once melted, incorporate all the other glaze ingredients, mixing them thoroughly for a delightful experience.
-
Simmer for thickness: Let the glaze simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens, which should take about 4-5 minutes. You want it thick enough to generously coat your ham.
-
Glaze the ham: Before the ham finishes, remove it from the smoker. Place it into an aluminum foil bin or cast iron skillet, and thoroughly glaze the entire ham on all sides.
-
Back to the smoke: Return the ham to the smoker once glazed. This ensures all those wonderful flavors meld together in the final cooking process!
-
Increase the heat: Open all the vents on the smoker to allow the heat to rise, which will help caramelize that luscious glaze.
-
Final cook: Allow the ham to cook at a high heat for about 7-8 minutes. This step is where you’ll see the glaze transform into a beautiful caramel!
-
Rest and serve: Remove the ham from the smoker and let it rest for 5 minutes. Then, slice, serve, and prepare for the compliments to flow!
Optional: Pair with roasted vegetables for a colorful plate.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Cherry Chipotle Pineapple Glazed Ham
Fridge: Store leftover ham in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Heat slices in the oven at 325°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave on low power for 1-2 minutes at a time.
Airtight Storage: Ensure that any leftover Cherry Chipotle Pineapple Glazed Ham is well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn and preserve its delicious taste.
What to Serve with Cherry Chipotle Pineapple Glazed Ham?
This festive ham deserves an equally delightful spread to complete your meal!
-
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery texture of mashed potatoes pairs perfectly with the sweet and spicy notes of the ham.
-
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy, caramelized veggies add a savory crunch, balancing the sweet glaze beautifully.
-
Hawaiian Rolls: Soft and pillowy, these rolls are perfect for mopping up the delicious glaze—an irresistible addition to any plate.
-
Coleslaw: Refreshing and crunchy, a tangy coleslaw brings a zesty contrast to the sweetness of the ham. It’s a classic complement that feels great on the palate.
-
Green Bean Almondine: With their tender texture and nutty flavor, green beans add an elegant touch while enhancing the overall meal’s aesthetics.
-
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: For dessert, this nostalgic treat echoes the flavors of your ham and is sure to leave everyone feeling satisfied and happy.
-
Sparkling Apple Cider: As a lovely beverage, the sweetness of this drink pairs wonderfully, making every sip a celebration to remember!
Make Ahead Options
These Cherry Chipotle Pineapple Glazed Ham preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during special occasions. You can season and assemble the ham with pineapple and cherries up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out. Additionally, the glaze can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just reheat it gently on the stovetop before glazing your ham. When you’re ready to cook, place the prepped ham on the smoker and follow the cooking instructions as usual. This way, you can enjoy a delicious, stress-free meal that looks and tastes just as delightful!
Expert Tips for Cherry Chipotle Pineapple Glazed Ham
Don’t skip the seasoning: Ensure every crevice of the ham is covered with cherry chipotle seasoning for a burst of flavor throughout.
Watch the temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F; this ensures your ham is juicy and perfectly cooked.
Glaze wisely: Apply the glaze towards the end of cooking to avoid burning and to achieve that beautifully caramelized finish.
Rest the ham: Always let the ham rest for a few minutes after cooking, as this allows the juices to redistribute for a more tender slice.
Experiment with wood chips: For a hint of uniqueness, try different wood chips like hickory or apple; they add depth to the smoky flavor.
Enjoy your delicious Cherry Chipotle Pineapple Glazed Ham and impress your family and friends!
Cherry Chipotle Pineapple Glazed Ham Variations
Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine with these delightful twists on your ham masterpiece!
-
Spicy Kick: Add minced jalapeños to the glaze for a mouthwatering heat that elevates the flavor profile. This spice will warm up the experience!
-
Maple Swap: Substitute honey with maple syrup to introduce a rich, earthy sweetness that perfectly complements the savory ham. Who doesn’t love maple?
-
Fresh Fruit: Mix in sliced fresh peaches or mangoes with the pineapple for a tangy-sweet twist that’ll surprise and delight your guests! The combination is a taste of summer!
-
Citrus Zest: Incorporate the zest of an orange or lime into your glaze to brighten up the flavors and add a refreshing touch. Citrus can really lift a dish!
-
Whiskey Variation: Replace bourbon with a smoky whiskey to deepen the glaze’s flavor, offering a more complex taste experience that whiskey lovers will adore!
-
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh rosemary or thyme into the glaze for added aromatic depth. Aromatic herbs provide an inviting scent that enhances the dining atmosphere!
-
Nutty Crunch: Top the glazed ham with chopped pecans or walnuts during the last few minutes of cooking for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. A textural contrast adds excitement!
-
Fruit Salsa: Serve with a pineapple-mango salsa on the side for a fresh and zesty pairing that cuts through the sweetness of the glazed ham. This salsa is the perfect complement to your creation!
Cherry Chipotle Pineapple Glazed Ham Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best spiral ham?
When choosing a spiral ham, look for one that is around 8 pounds, as this size offers the best balance of tenderness and flavor. Check for a good color—your ham should have a nice pink hue. Avoid hams with dark spots or an excessive amount of liquid in the packaging, as this may indicate overcooking or spoilage.
What is the best way to store leftover Cherry Chipotle Pineapple Glazed Ham?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps to retain moisture and flavor. If you’d like to extend its shelf life, wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and place it in the freezer where it can last for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it thaw in the refrigerator before you reheat it.
How do I freeze and reheat my ham correctly?
To freeze your Cherry Chipotle Pineapple Glazed Ham, follow these steps:
- Portion: Slice the ham into individual portions for easy reheating.
- Wrap: Tightly wrap each piece in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Label: Don’t forget to label them with the date for easy reference!
When you’re ready to enjoy your ham again, remove a portion and let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven at 325°F for about 15-20 minutes until warm throughout, or microwave on low in 1-2 minute intervals to prevent overcooking.
What should I do if my ham is too salty?
If you find your ham is on the salty side, don’t worry! You can soak the slices in cold water for about 30 minutes before reheating them. This will draw out some of the excess salt. Alternatively, you can pair the ham with some unsalted side dishes or a fruity sauce, like a homemade pineapple salsa, to help balance the flavors.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free or accommodate allergies?
Certainly! To make a gluten-free Cherry Chipotle Pineapple Glazed Ham, simply ensure that all your ingredients, particularly the chipotle seasoning and bourbon, are certified gluten-free. If anyone in your household has allergies to specific ingredients, consider substituting the honey with agave syrup for a vegan option or using maple syrup for added complexity without compromising taste. Always read labels to ensure everything is safe for your guests.
What other sides pair well with this ham?
Very! This dish shines when served with sides like roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. I often recommend a tangy coleslaw or a sweet potato casserole to complement the sweet and spicy flavors of the ham, enhancing your feast’s overall experience.
Enjoy crafting the perfect meal with these tips, and happy cooking!
Savory Cherry Chipotle Pineapple Glazed Ham for Your Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the ham: Set your spiral ham with the cut open side facing you.
- Season generously: Sprinkle the cherry chipotle seasoning over the ham.
- Add pineapple slices: Place pineapple slices on the back side, securing them with toothpicks.
- Garnish with cherries: Secure a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple slice.
- Set aside: Let the ham rest while you prepare the grill.
- Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill for indirect cooking at 325°F.
- Cook the ham: Place the ham onto the smoker and cook for approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
- Prepare the glaze: Preheat a skillet to start on your glaze.
- Melt the butter: Add the salted butter to the skillet and allow it to melt.
- Simmer for thickness: Let the glaze simmer and thicken for about 4-5 minutes.
- Glaze the ham: Remove the ham from the smoker and thoroughly glaze it.
- Back to the smoke: Return the ham to the smoker for final cooking.
- Increase the heat: Open all the vents on the smoker to rise heat.
- Final cook: Allow the ham to cook for about 7-8 minutes.
- Rest and serve: Remove the ham and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.