Irresistible Pineapple & Brown Sugar Ham Recipe Delight

There’s a magical aroma that fills the air when you bake a Pineapple & Brown Sugar Ham. It’s like a festive hug for your senses, blending sweet, savory, and smoky all at once. unique appetizer to serve The juicy pineapple glistens against the caramelized brown sugar crust, promising an explosion of flavors that makes every bite a mini celebration.

Imagine sitting down with family during the holidays, laughter echoing around the table as you carve into this succulent ham. Each slice reveals layers of sweetness and depth, making it not just a meal but a cherished moment shared with loved ones. Whether it’s Christmas dinner or a casual Sunday gathering, this dish elevates any occasion to pure deliciousness. For more inspiration, check out this lemon cheesecake squares recipe.

I still remember the first time I made this ham; my family couldn’t stop raving about it and asked for seconds—maybe even thirds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Bone-In Ham: Choose a high-quality bone-in ham for maximum flavor and tenderness; aim for 8-10 pounds.

• Brown Sugar: Use light brown sugar for a sweeter, more caramelized glaze that complements the savory ham beautifully.

• Pineapple Rings: Opt for canned pineapple rings in juice; they add moisture and fantastic flavor to the dish.

• Whole Cloves: These add an aromatic spiciness; place them strategically to enhance overall taste without overwhelming it.

• Honey or Maple Syrup: Either one adds extra sweetness and depth to your glaze; choose based on your preference. For more inspiration, check out this sticky honey chicken recipe recipe.

• Dijon Mustard: A tablespoon enhances the flavor profile with its tangy kick; don’t skip it!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This ensures even cooking and helps create that perfect glaze.

Prepare the ham: Place your bone-in ham in a roasting pan lined with aluminum foil. Score diagonal lines across the surface to create diamond shapes; this allows flavors to seep in nicely.

Make the glaze: In a bowl, mix brown sugar, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon mustard until well combined. It should have a thick yet pourable consistency.

Apply pineapple rings: Arrange pineapple rings over the ham using toothpicks to secure them if necessary. Don’t forget to add any remaining pineapple juice from the can into the pan for extra moisture.

Add cloves: Insert whole cloves into the intersections of your scored lines on the ham. This step not only looks great but also infuses flavor throughout.

Bake it: Cover with foil and bake for approximately 15 minutes per pound of ham. Remove foil during the last 30 minutes for that beautiful caramelized finish.

Let it rest: Once out of the oven, let your Pineapple & Brown Sugar Ham rest for about 20 minutes before slicing. great for casual gatherings This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To ensure flawless results, start by glazing the ham first, then bake it slowly at a low temperature for even cooking and flavor infusion.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap brown sugar with maple syrup or honey for an unexpected twist. Adding cloves or mustard can give your ham that extra zing.

Storing & Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to five days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm it in the oven at 325°F until heated through.

Creating this Pineapple & Brown Sugar Ham always brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter echoed around the dinner table and everyone eagerly anticipated that first slice. perfect side for holiday gatherings.

FAQ

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Using fresh pineapple adds a vibrant flavor and texture to your dish.

How do I know when my ham is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 140°F for safe consumption and optimal juiciness.

What can I serve with Pineapple & Brown Sugar Ham?

a light vegetarian option.

Pair it with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.