Irresistible Baked Ham with Brown Sugar Pineapple Recipe

 

Ah, the smell of a ham baking in the oven—it’s one of those scents that whisks me back to my childhood. My grandmother had a way of making every holiday feel special, but her baked ham with brown sugar and pineapple was the star of the feast. I can still picture the jubilant gatherings around the table, laughter mingling with the sweet aroma wafting through the house. It’s dishes like this that create lasting memories, and there’s something so comforting about making it for my own family now. This Baked Ham With Brown Sugar and Pineapple not only tantalizes the taste buds, but it’s also a warm hug on a plate, and I’m excited to share this recipe with you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless: Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive occasions.
• Budget-friendly: A little ham goes a long way, making it a great main dish.
• Comforting flavors: The sweet and savory balance will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Easy to customize: Add your favorite spices or sides for a personal touch.

Ingredients

Let’s gather our ingredients! You might already have some of these staples at home, which makes this dish even more inviting. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 whole bone-in ham (about 8 to 10 pounds)
• 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark works well)
• 1 cup pineapple juice (fresh or canned)
• 1/4 cup honey (for that extra sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (this adds warmth and spice)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves (optional, but highly recommended for depth of flavor)
• Pineapple slices (fresh or canned, plus maraschino cherries for garnish if desired)

Note: Using fresh pineapple juice brings a vibrant flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, canned pineapple juice works great too!

Step-by-Step Instructions

This is where the magic happens! Making this Baked Ham With Brown Sugar and Pineapple is easier than you might think. Just follow these steps:

1. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 325°F (160°C). This temperature allows the ham to cook slowly, ensuring tender, juicy meat.
2. Prepare the ham: Place your ham in a large roasting pan. If it has a thick layer of fat, score it in a diamond pattern to help the glaze seep into the meat.
3. Mix the glaze: In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, pineapple juice, honey, cinnamon, and cloves. Stir it all together until smooth and luscious.
4. Glaze the ham: Pour the glaze all over the ham, ensuring that it seeps into the scores. Save a bit of the glaze for basting later.
5. Add pineapple slices: Arrange the pineapple slices around the ham, securing with toothpicks if necessary. These not only add flavor but make for a beautiful presentation too!
6. Bake: Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake for about 2 to 2.5 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the reserved glaze. This step is crucial; it caramelizes the sugars and intensifies that sweet flavor!
7. Final touch: For the last 30 minutes, remove the foil so the surface can crisp up beautifully and give that delightful golden brown color.
8. Rest and serve: Once done, let the ham rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping each slice moist!

Personal tip: Don’t rush the resting period! It’s tempting to dig right in, but this step is essential for a juicy ham.

Pro Tips & Variations

Let’s take this baked ham to the next level or switch it up a bit! Here are some fun ideas:

• Spice it up: Add some Dijon mustard or a touch of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a little kick!
• Fruity twists: Incorporate diced apples or pears into the glaze for a fresh twist.
• Citrus delight: Add some orange juice or zest for a zesty citrus undertone.
• Warm spices: Swap out cinnamon and cloves for nutmeg and allspice for a different flavor profile.

Be playful! Cooking should be about experimenting and finding what your taste buds dance for.

Serving Suggestions

This mouthwatering ham shines as the centerpiece of any meal. Serve it alongside fluffy mashed potatoes or roasted veggies to soak up all that sweet glaze. Don’t forget about a fresh green salad to balance the richness! Oh, and if you have leftovers, they make for the best sandwiches—slap on some mustard, maybe a slice of cheese, and you’ve got a lunch that’s worth relishing.

As for drinks, consider pairing it with a light white wine or a sparkling water with a slice of lemon for a refreshing contrast.

Storage Tips

Now, if you find yourself with leftovers (which is unlikely, but just in case!), here’s how to keep them tasty:

• Refrigerating: Wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the fridge. It should last about 4-5 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, slice the ham, wrap each slice individually, and place them in an airtight container. This way, you can pull out just what you need later! It should stay good for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, gently reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through. Adding a splash of pineapple juice while reheating keeps it moist and flavorful.

FAQs

Can I use a boneless ham for this recipe?

Absolutely! If you prefer boneless ham, just adjust the cooking time according to the size and weight listed on the packaging.

What’s the best way to slice the ham?

For the best slices, you’ll want to slice against the grain. Start by removing the skin and then slice in even, thick pieces for maximum juiciness!

Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?

You can definitely prepare the glaze the day before. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before using.

How can I tell when the ham is fully cooked?

The best and safest way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C) for pre-cooked ham.

What if I don’t have pineapple juice?

No problem! You can substitute with apple juice or even a mix of orange juice and water. It won’t be the same, but it will still be delicious!

Conclusion

I hope you’re as excited to make this Baked Ham With Brown Sugar and Pineapple as I am to share it. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s about creating moments around the table with family and friends. Please let me know how yours turns out, or better yet, share your own twists on this classic! Happy cooking, and may your home be filled with joy and the wonderful aroma of baked ham!