Roast Ham with Pineapple Glaze is a classic, festive dish that combines the savory richness of baked ham with the sweet and tangy flavor of a pineapple-based glaze. This dish is perfect for holiday dinners, special occasions, or Sunday family meals. The pineapple glaze caramelizes beautifully during roasting, creating a glossy, flavorful crust that complements the smoky, tender meat. Easy to prepare yet impressive in presentation, this roast ham offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors that will delight both family and guests.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it turns a simple ham into a show-stopping centerpiece bursting with flavor. The sweet, tangy pineapple glaze caramelizes beautifully during roasting, creating a glossy, flavorful crust that perfectly complements the savory, tender meat. Each slice is juicy, flavorful, and irresistible, making every meal feel special.What makes this recipe truly special is how it balances simplicity with elegance. It’s easy to prepare yet impressive enough for holiday dinners or family gatherings.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

Roast Ham with Pineapple Glaze is a must-try because it elevates a classic ham with a sweet, tangy, and caramelized topping that enhances every bite. The pineapple glaze seeps into the meat while roasting, creating juicy, flavorful slices with a glossy, irresistible finish. Each bite is a perfect balance of savory and sweet, making it both comforting and festive.This recipe stands out for its simplicity and impressive results. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or special occasions, it requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor.

Preparation Time, Cooking Time, and Servings

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours (depending on ham size)
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes

Servings: 8–10
Calories: Approximately 400 calories per serving

Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (6–8 pounds)
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• Pineapple rings and maraschino cherries for garnish (optional)

Cooking Directions

The ham is glazed with a sweet and tangy pineapple mixture and baked until the exterior is caramelized and glossy, while the meat stays tender and juicy.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, cut side down.
3. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, about 1/4 inch deep.
4. In a small saucepan, combine pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
5. Brush the ham generously with the pineapple glaze.
6. Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.
7. Remove the foil, baste the ham with additional glaze, and continue baking for 30–60 minutes, basting every 15 minutes, until the ham is heated through and the glaze is caramelized.
8. If desired, arrange pineapple rings and cherries on top during the last 15 minutes of baking.
9. Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
10. Slice and serve with remaining glaze drizzled on top.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve the roast ham sliced on a platter, garnished with pineapple rings and cherries if desired. Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Leftovers can be used for sandwiches, soups, or casseroles.

Recipe Tips

• Use a fully cooked ham to simplify preparation.
• Baste frequently to ensure the glaze caramelizes evenly.
• Rest the ham before slicing to retain juiciness.
• Score the ham to allow the glaze to penetrate and enhance flavor.

Variations in Detail

Brown Sugar and Mustard Ham: Use only brown sugar and Dijon mustard for a simpler glaze.
Maple Pineapple Ham: Replace honey with maple syrup for a richer flavor.
Spiced Ham: Add ground ginger or cinnamon to the glaze for a warm spice note.
Mini Ham Portions: Prepare small hams or ham steaks with the same glaze for individual servings.
Gluten-Free Version: Ensure Dijon mustard is gluten-free.

Freezing and Storage Time

Refrigerator: Store cooked ham in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze slices for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Special Equipment Needed

• Roasting pan with rack
• Small saucepan
• Basting brush
• Aluminum foil
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a boneless ham?
Yes, but adjust cooking time as it may cook slightly faster.

Do I need to cook a pre-cooked ham?
You only need to reheat it and glaze it; it does not require full cooking.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, the glaze can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Can I use canned pineapple for garnish?
Yes, canned pineapple rings and cherries work perfectly for presentation.

Conclusion

Roast Ham with Pineapple Glaze is a classic and versatile dish that transforms a simple ham into a centerpiece worthy of any special occasion. With its sweet, tangy, and slightly caramelized glaze, tender and juicy meat, and beautiful presentation, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It is easy to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or celebratory meals.