Baked Ham with Pineapple is a classic holiday centerpiece that brings a touch of sweetness to your savory main dish. The tender, juicy ham is glazed with a delightful combination of brown sugar, honey, and mustard, then adorned with rings of pineapple that caramelize as the ham bakes. The result is a beautifully glazed ham with the perfect balance of sweet and salty, making it a must-have for special occasions or any time you want to impress your guests with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)
- 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple slices, drained
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 10-12 whole cloves
- Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)
- Toothpicks (for securing pineapple slices)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Prepare the ham: Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern and stud it with whole cloves, inserting them at the intersections of the cuts. Place the ham on a rack in a large roasting pan.
- Make the glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Heat over medium-low, stirring until the sugar has dissolved and the glaze is smooth. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Decorate the ham: Arrange the pineapple slices on the surface of the ham, securing each with a toothpick. If desired, place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple slice for a decorative touch.
- Glaze the ham: Brush the prepared glaze generously over the entire ham, making sure to coat it evenly.
- Bake the ham: Place the ham in the preheated oven and bake for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Baste the ham with the glaze every 20-30 minutes during baking for extra flavor and caramelization.
- Serve: Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Serve with the caramelized pineapple slices and any remaining glaze from the pan.
Enjoy your succulent Baked Ham with Pineapple, a timeless dish that’s sure to be the star of your holiday table!
