Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Bake

Introduction

Few dishes say celebration quite like a Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Bake — juicy ham coated in a caramelized brown sugar glaze and topped with tangy pineapple rings. 🍍 This classic holiday favorite is sweet, savory, and beautifully golden, making it a show-stopping centerpiece for Easter, Christmas, or any family feast.

The magic lies in the glaze — a luscious mix of brown sugar, pineapple juice, and warm spices that melts into the ham, creating a glossy, flavor-packed crust. One bite, and you’ll understand why this recipe never goes out of style!

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Ingredients List

For the Ham:

1 fully cooked bone-in ham (8–10 lbs)
Whole cloves (optional, for studding the ham)
1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices in juice
Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)

For the Brown Sugar Glaze:

1 cup brown sugar, packed
½ cup pineapple juice (from the can)
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground cloves (optional)

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Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Total Time: ~2 hours

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a large roasting pan with foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Ham

Place the ham flat-side down in the pan. If desired, score the surface in a diamond pattern (about ½ inch deep) and stud with cloves for flavor and presentation.

Step 3: Add Pineapple & Cherries

Arrange pineapple slices on top and around the ham. Secure with toothpicks and place a cherry in the center of each ring (optional but traditional).

Step 4: Make the Glaze

In a small saucepan, whisk together brown sugar, pineapple juice, mustard, honey, cinnamon, and cloves. Bring to a gentle simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Glaze & Bake

Brush the ham generously with the glaze. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 1½ hours, basting every 30 minutes with pan juices and more glaze.

Step 6: Caramelize the Glaze

For the final 15 minutes, remove the foil and bake uncovered to let the glaze bubble and caramelize beautifully.

Step 7: Rest & Serve

Let the ham rest 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with remaining glaze drizzled on top.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 36g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 22g
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 950mg

Healthier Alternatives

Use low-sodium ham to reduce salt content.
Swap brown sugar with maple syrup or coconut sugar for natural sweetness.
Replace honey with orange juice for a citrusy twist.
Skip the cherries to reduce added sugar.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered green beans, or roasted carrots.
Serve alongside pineapple rice or Hawaiian rolls for a tropical flair.
Leftovers make amazing ham sandwiches, omelets, or soups.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking too long: The ham is already cooked — overbaking can dry it out.
Skipping basting: Regular glazing keeps it moist and flavorful.
Using too much heat: Keep the oven at 325°F to avoid burning the sugar.
Not resting the ham: Resting helps juices redistribute for tender slices.

Storing Tips

Refrigerate: Store leftovers up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Freeze: Freeze slices (without glaze) for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm gently in the oven, covered with foil to retain moisture.

Conclusion

This Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Bake is the ultimate blend of sweet, savory, and festive — caramelized on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with flavor. 🍍🍖 Perfect for holidays or special gatherings, it’s a timeless dish that always brings smiles (and seconds!).

With its sticky glaze and golden finish, this ham is not just a meal — it’s a centerpiece worth celebrating.

FAQs

1. Can I use spiral-cut ham?
Yes! Just reduce baking time by about 20 minutes and baste frequently.

2. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes — bake a day ahead, then reheat at 300°F for 20 minutes, covered with foil.

3. Can I use fresh pineapple?
Absolutely! Just blend or juice part of it to make the glaze.

4. Can I skip the mustard?
Yes, but it adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness beautifully.

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