Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham

There's something incredibly comforting about a Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham, don’t you think? Imagine this—it's a chilly evening, the air is crisp with the scent of pine, and you're gathered around the table with family and friends. A succulent, golden-brown ham steals the show, adorned with bright pineapple slices and a glossy sweet glaze. I remember the first time I made this for a holiday gathering; friends kept asking for seconds!

What inspired me to share this perfect recipe is not only its heavenly flavor but also the memories it envelops. This ham became a beloved family tradition, and I suspect it will do the same for you. Now, let’s dive into why you should make this delightful dish tonight!

Why you’ll love this recipe

Oh, where do I even start? The blend of sweet, sticky brown sugar and the tangy bite from pineapple is pure alchemy! This dish is not just about taste; it's about crafting moments. The way the glaze caramelizes gives the ham a gorgeous, glossy finish that'll have your guests lining up for a slice.

And let’s not forget about the complexity. Using Dijon mustard and ground cloves adds a depth of flavor that surprises and delights the palate. It’s fancy enough for celebrations but simple enough for a cozy family dinner. The result? A beautifully glammed-up ham that feels like a hug from your grandma! Plus, it’s fully cooked already, so you're just elevating what’s already delicious with minimal effort.

Gather these ingredients

For this culinary masterpiece, you’ll need:

• 1 fully cooked ham (about 8 to 10 pounds): Look for one with a nice marbling; it ensures flavor and juiciness. A bone-in ham will also give you extra richness.
• 1 cup brown sugar: Choose light brown for a milder flavor or dark brown for a deeper, more caramel-like sweetness.
• 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple slices: Try to get the kind packed in juice, not syrup. We want to keep things wholesome!
• 1/4 cup honey: This will add that luscious gloss to your glaze. Feel free to use local honey; it adds personality and supports beekeepers in your area.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: It’s the secret agent that balances the sweetness and gives a little kick.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Just a pinch of these will transport you straight to holiday dinner vibes.

Preparing Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham

1. Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. Place the ham: Find a large roasting pan and lay down the ham, cut side down. This helps keep it moist.

3. Mix it up: In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves. Whisk until it's all blended together; it should be a sticky, sweet delight.

4. Glaze the ham: Use a brush to coat the ham generously with the brown sugar mixture. Don’t be shy here—this is the magic that brings everything together!

5. Add the pineapple: Place the pineapple slices artfully over the ham. If you find them slipping, secure them with toothpicks. This is a ham fashion statement after all!

6. Bake: Slide the ham into the oven and roast it for about 15 minutes per pound. You want it to reach an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Keep an eye on it—this is where the aroma starts transforming your kitchen into nirvana.

7. Baste it up: Every 30 minutes, take a moment to baste the ham with its own juices. This step is pure alchemy, trust me!

8. Lastly, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. It’ll retain its juices better this way.

Best way to enjoy it

Slicing into your Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham is like revealing a treasure trove of flavor. I love to serve it with buttery mashed potatoes, a fresh spring salad, or even glazed carrots, balancing the richness of the ham.

Want to elevate the experience? Pair it with a sweet peach or apricot chutney to intertwine those flavors. For drinks, consider a crisp white wine with some floral notes. You'll thank me later!

Keeping leftovers fresh

Now, if you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (which hardly ever happens, but just in case), here’s how to handle them! First, allow the ham to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can refrigerate it for up to 4 days or freeze it for around 2 months. If freezing, slice it up before storing for easy meal prep later!

When it’s time to reheat, avoid the microwave for the best texture. Instead, place it in a baking dish, cover it with foil, and heat in a low oven until warmed through. This will keep it moist and delicious—no one wants dry ham!

Pro chef tips

Let’s talk tips!

• Toast the cloves: If you get a moment, lightly toasting the ground cloves can amplify their flavor. It's such a small step but makes a world of difference.

• Level up the glaze: Feeling extra? Add a splash of bourbon or orange juice to your glaze for a sophisticated twist.

• Experiment with spices: Don’t stick just to cloves; think about adding cinnamon or nutmeg to bring a holiday vibe no matter what time of year it is.

Creative Twists

Got a little adventurous spirit? Try these variations:

• Bourbon-infused glaze: Substitute some of the honey with a splash of bourbon. The caramel notes will pair beautifully with the sweetness.

• Apple cider: Instead of just the pineapple, incorporate apple slices and a bit of apple cider in the glaze for an Autumn twist.

• Spicy kick: Add a dash of cayenne or crushed red pepper to the glaze for a sweet-heat combo.

Ingredients

• 1 fully cooked ham (about 8 to 10 pounds)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple slices
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Directions to follow

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Place the ham in a roasting pan, cut side down.
3. In a bowl, mix brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves.
4. Glaze the ham with the mixture generously.
5. Arrange pineapple slices on the ham, securing with toothpicks if necessary.
6. Bake for about 15 minutes per pound until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
7. Baste the ham with its juices every 30 minutes.
8. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Your questions answered

• How long should I bake the ham? About 15 minutes per pound until it reaches 140°F (60°C).

• What if I don’t like pineapple? You could replace it with apples or leave it out entirely and try simply glazing the ham!

• Can I prepare it ahead of time? You can prepare the glaze and secure the pineapple slices on the ham a day ahead. Just bake it on the day of serving.

• What sides pair well with this dish? Think about creamy mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a zesty coleslaw.

• How should I store leftovers? Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for about 2 months.

You’ve made it this far, and I can feel the excitement bubbling! This Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham is more than just a recipe; it’s a heartfelt dish that brings loved ones together. As you gather around that table, take a moment to appreciate the flavors and the memories, both old and new.

It's your kitchen, your story—so don’t hesitate to play around with the ingredients and create a version that's uniquely yours. Share your triumphs and twists down in the comments. Happy cooking, my friend! 🍍🍯