The first bite of this Sweet & Savory Spiral Sliced Ham with Pineapple Glaze transports me back to festive family gatherings filled with laughter and warmth. The enticing scent of caramelized brown sugar and tangy Dijon wafting from the oven sets the stage for a feast that promises to impress and delight. Picture a beautifully decorated ham, adorned with vibrant pineapple slices and cherries, a true centerpiece that captures attention even before the meal begins.
This retro-inspired recipe revives the classic mid-century tradition of serving spiral sliced ham, making it the perfect choice for holidays like Easter and Christmas or any special occasion worth celebrating. What I love most about this dish is how it effortlessly combines ease and elegance; with just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create a showstopper that tastes as good as it looks. Say goodbye to the mundane hassle of takeout, and say hello to the heartfelt flavors of homemade goodness! Ready to dive into a culinary experience that fills the soul? Let’s get started!
Why is Pineapple Ham a Must-Try?
Decadent Flavors: This spiral ham is a delightful fusion of sweet pineapple and tangy glaze that’ll have everyone craving seconds.
Visual Appeal: Dressed with vibrant pineapple slices and maraschino cherries, it’s the perfect centerpiece for any gathering, surely impressing your guests.
Simple Preparation: With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can serve up this gorgeous dish that tastes gourmet without the kitchen stress.
Nostalgic Charm: This recipe channels classic mid-century dining, bringing warmth and tradition to your holiday table.
Versatile Sides: Pair with cheesy potato casserole or roasted veggies for a complete feast that satisfies every palate.
Rediscover the joy of holiday cooking with this recipe that offers both nostalgia and flavor for your table!
Pineapple Ham Ingredients
For the Ham
• Bone-in, spiral sliced ham – This is the star of the dish, offering rich flavor and moisture; choose ham labeled just “ham” for the best quality.
For the Topping
• Pineapple slices (20 oz can) – Adds sweet juiciness; opt for those packed in juice rather than syrup for a lighter touch.
• Maraschino cherries (10 oz jar) – Provides a pop of color and sweetness that enhances the ham’s visual appeal.
• Whole cloves (optional) – Push these into pineapple slices for added warmth and aromatic depth.
For the Glaze
• Light brown sugar (1 cup) – Essential for sweetness and that delightful caramelized effect on the ham.
• Dijon mustard (2 tbsp) – Balances the sweetness with a tangy kick in your glaze.
• Orange juice (1 tbsp) – Brightens the glaze with a touch of acidity for depth of flavor.
• Ground cinnamon (½ tsp, optional) – Introduces a warm, spiced note that complements the sweetness.
• Ground cloves (⅛ tsp, optional) – Adds an extra layer of aromatic richness to the glaze.
Experience the joy of crafting this Pineapple Ham that’s sure to be the talk of your holiday meal!
How to Make Pineapple Ham
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven according to the ham package instructions. This initial step sets you on the right path to a perfectly cooked ham.
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Prepare the Ham: Place your bone-in, spiral sliced ham in a roasting pan and cover it tightly with aluminum foil. This ensures a juicy, succulent result.
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Rest the Ham: Remove the ham from the oven about 30 minutes before it reaches the recommended heating time. This helps it warm through gently.
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Prepare Toppings: As the ham rests, remove pineapple slices from the can, reserving the juice. Get creative by using toothpicks to affix pineapple slices onto the ham, placing a cherry at the center of each slice, and optionally inserting whole cloves for aromatic flair.
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Make the Glaze: In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, orange juice, and any optional spices. Warm gently until combined, stirring to blend the beautiful flavors together.
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Glaze the Ham: Generously pour the glaze over the ham, making sure it seeps into the spiral cuts. Save some glaze for later to enhance flavor at serving.
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Bake Fully: Retain the ham with foil and return it to the oven for the remainder of the cooking time, allowing those sweet flavors to meld.
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Rest Before Serving: Once fully cooked, let the ham rest before slicing. Carefully remove the toppings and serve them alongside the ham, drizzling the reserved glaze over for an irresistible finish.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for a touch of color and aroma.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Pineapple Ham?
Creating the perfect meal around this sweet and savory centerpiece opens the door to delightful combinations that elevate your dining experience.
- Cheesy Potato Casserole: This creamy casserole adds a rich texture that complements the glaze of the ham, making every bite indulgent and comforting.
- Roasted Asparagus: Freshly roasted asparagus adds a vibrant, crunchy contrast to the sweet ham, bringing a touch of green goodness to your plate.
- Southern Sweet Creamed Corn: The sweetness of this classic dish harmonizes beautifully with the flavors of the pineapple ham, creating a delightful balance on your holiday table.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Buttery and smooth, these mashed potatoes soak up that lovely ham glaze, making every forkful a cozy delight.
- Savory Green Bean Almondine: The crunch of toasted almonds paired with tender green beans makes for a refreshing and elegant side that elevates the meal.
- Hawaiian Rolls: These soft, slightly sweet rolls are perfect for soaking up the rich glaze and serve as the ideal vehicle for leftover ham sandwiches.
- Cranberry Sauce: A tart, bright cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet flavors of the ham, enhancing its profile beautifully.
- Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly adds a festive touch and pairs wonderfully with the savory-sweet profile of the meal.
- Mixed Leaf Salad: A refreshing salad with citrus dressing adds crispness and balances the richness of the ham, making for a well-rounded meal.
- Pineapple Upside Down Cake: For dessert, this classic cake echoes the delightful theme of pineapple and rounds off the meal with nostalgia and sweetness.
Expert Tips for Pineapple Ham
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Select the Right Ham: Choose a bone-in, spiral sliced ham for optimal flavor and moisture. Avoid hams with added water for best results.
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Perfect Glaze Application: Save some of the glaze to apply after cooking; this addition enhances the flavor and ensures a beautiful presentation.
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Avoid Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to check that your ham reaches 145°F; overcooking can lead to dry, less flavorful meat.
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Keep it Juicy: Cover the ham with foil during the first part of cooking to lock in moisture; this helps achieve tender, juicy slices.
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Upgrade Your Glaze: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or additional brown sugar for a unique twist on the traditional pineapple ham recipe.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Pineapple Ham preparations are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can assemble the ham (complete with pineapple and cherries) up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully overnight. If you’d like, you can prepare the glaze and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat your oven, pour the chilled glaze over the ham, and bake as directed. Your holiday centerpiece will be just as delicious and visually stunning, ensuring a seamless, stress-free meal that impresses!
How to Store and Freeze Pineapple Ham
- Fridge: Store leftover pineapple ham in an airtight container for up to 7 days. Make sure it’s tightly sealed to maintain moisture and freshness.
- Freezer: For longer preservation, freeze slices of pineapple ham wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To enjoy your leftover ham, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
- Room Temperature: Avoid leaving pineapple ham at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Pineapple Ham Variations & Substitutions
Get ready to personalize your pineapple ham experience with these delightful twists!
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Peach Swap: Replace pineapple slices with fresh peaches for a juicy twist that adds depth and sweetness.
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Honey Mustard: For a sweeter glaze, substitute Dijon mustard with honey mustard, enhancing the flavor profile beautifully.
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Maple Sweetener: Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar; it will impart a rich, autumnal flavor and a lovely caramel finish.
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Spiced Glaze: Add ground nutmeg or a hint of cayenne pepper to the glaze for an unexpected kick that elevates this classic dish.
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Bourbon Infusion: Incorporate a splash of bourbon into the glaze for a sophisticated, smoky depth that pairs perfectly with the sweet notes.
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Fresh Fruits: Use fresh fruit like apples or pears in place of canned pineapple for an earthy, vibrant take that brightens the dish.
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle crushed pecans or walnuts atop the glazed ham before baking; they’ll add a delightful crunch and nutty richness to each bite.
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Low-Sugar Option: For a lighter version, opt for a sugar substitute while still enjoying the sweet flavors of this beloved holiday dish.
Explore these variations for a pineapple ham that tells your unique culinary story!
Pineapple Ham with Pineapple Recipe FAQs
What type of ham should I choose for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and juiciness, opt for a bone-in, spiral sliced ham. Look for one labeled just “ham” to avoid hams with added water, which can dilute the taste and texture.
How should I store leftover pineapple ham?
After enjoying your feast, store any leftover pineapple ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 7 days. Make sure to seal it tightly to maintain moisture and prevent it from drying out.
Can I freeze pineapple ham, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can freeze leftover pineapple ham! Wrap the slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It’s best to consume them within 3 months for optimal flavor. When ready to enjoy, thaw the ham in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What if my ham is overcooked?
If your ham turns out dry, don’t despair! You can add moisture back by warming it gently with a splash of broth or glaze in a covered dish in the oven. Keeping it covered while reheating will help retain moisture and make it more enjoyable.
Are there any dietary considerations with the glaze?
Yes! If anyone has mustard allergies, feel free to substitute the Dijon mustard with a honey mustard or skip it entirely for a different flavor profile. Additionally, always check the ingredients of the maraschino cherries since some brands may contain allergens.
Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned pineapple for this recipe?
The more the merrier! You can definitely use fresh pineapple instead of canned for a vibrant and juicy alternative. Just slice it into rings and place them similarly on the ham. Fresh fruit will add a delightful twist to your Pineapple Ham!
Pineapple Ham: Irresistible Spiral Ham Recipe for Holidays
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven according to the ham package instructions.
- Prepare the Ham: Place the ham in a roasting pan and cover tightly with aluminum foil.
- Rest the Ham: Remove the ham from the oven about 30 minutes before it reaches heating time.
- Prepare Toppings: Remove pineapple slices, affix on ham with toothpicks, and optionally add whole cloves.
- Make the Glaze: Combine brown sugar, Dijon mustard, orange juice, and optional spices in a saucepan.
- Glaze the Ham: Pour the glaze over the ham, ensuring it seeps into the cuts.
- Bake Fully: Return the ham to the oven for the remainder of cooking time.
- Rest Before Serving: Let ham rest before slicing and serve with reserved glaze.