Sweet, savory, and beautifully caramelized, Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham is a classic holiday centerpiece that never goes out of style. A tender baked ham is coated in a rich brown sugar glaze and topped with juicy pineapple slices that caramelize in the oven, creating a glossy, flavorful crust.
The combination of sweet pineapple, warm brown sugar, and savory ham creates a perfect balance of flavors. As the ham bakes, the glaze slowly melts into the meat, creating a juicy, tender dish that fills the kitchen with the most wonderful aroma.
This impressive yet easy recipe is perfect for Easter dinner, Christmas gatherings, or Sunday family meals. Serve it alongside your favorite spring sides for a meal that everyone will remember.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
🍍 Sweet caramelized pineapple flavor
🍯 Sticky brown sugar glaze
✨ Perfect Easter or holiday centerpiece
🥄 Simple ingredients and easy preparation
👨👩👧👦 Feeds a crowd
Ingredients
1 fully cooked bone-in ham (7–9 lbs)
1 cup brown sugar
½ cup pineapple juice
1 can pineapple slices
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
Optional garnish:
maraschino cherries
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
Place the ham cut side down in a roasting pan.
2. Prepare the Glaze
In a small saucepan combine:
- brown sugar
- pineapple juice
- Dijon mustard
- ground cloves (optional)
Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the glaze becomes smooth.
3. Score the Ham
Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This helps the glaze soak into the meat.
4. Add Pineapple
Arrange the pineapple slices over the surface of the ham. Secure them with toothpicks if needed.
If using cherries, place one in the center of each pineapple ring.
5. Glaze and Bake
Brush a generous amount of glaze over the ham.
Bake for 1½–2 hours, basting with glaze every 20–30 minutes until the ham is heated through and beautifully caramelized.
6. Rest and Serve
Let the ham rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Serve with extra caramelized pineapple and glaze spooned over the top.
Tips for the Best Ham
Score the Surface
Scoring allows the glaze to seep deep into the meat.
Baste Frequently
Brushing glaze during baking builds a sticky, flavorful crust.
Use Pineapple Juice
Using pineapple juice in the glaze enhances the tropical sweetness.
Variations
Maple Pineapple Ham
Replace brown sugar with maple syrup.
Spiced Holiday Ham
Add cinnamon and nutmeg to the glaze.
Honey Pineapple Ham
Substitute honey for half of the brown sugar.
What to Serve With Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
This ham pairs beautifully with:
- Lemon Ricotta Pancakes (for brunch spreads)
- Asparagus & Gruyère Quiche
- Roasted asparagus or Green Beans
- Scalloped potatoes
- Fresh spring salad
- Hot Cross Buns
Perfect for a beautiful Easter table (see recipes bellow or click on the links).
Recipe Summary
Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Servings: 10–12
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 410
Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Sugar: 18g
Fat: 22g
Sodium: 1300mg
If you’re planning a festive Easter meal, this Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham is the perfect centerpiece! 🍍
Save this recipe to your Easter or holiday dinner Pinterest board, share it with friends and family, and let me know in the comments how your ham turned out. I’d love to hear how you served it!
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