Name: Sweet Honey-Glazed Ham with Pineapple for Joyful Feasts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 120 min
Total time: 150 min
Ingredients: 1 bone-in ham Bone-in Ham (Provides a rich flavor; serve a smaller ham for an intimate gathering.); 1 cup Honey (Use pure honey for the best results.); 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (Can be replaced with coconut sugar for a healthier option.); 8 rings Pineapple Rings (Canned or fresh works well.); 1/4 cup Dijon Mustard (Substitute with yellow mustard if preferred.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Nutmeg also works for a different twist.); 1/4 teaspoon Cloves (Omit if you're not a fan of spice.); 1/2 cup Pineapple Juice (Use fresh juice for a brighter flavor.)

As the aroma of honey-glazed ham wafts through the house, I find myself transported to cherished family gatherings where laughter and joy filled the air. This festive dish is not just a centerpiece for your Christmas table but a delightful fusion of sweet and savory that effortlessly brings everyone together. My “Honey-Glazed Ham with Pineapple” is a standout among the 25 Christmas dinner recipe ideas I’ve curated for this season, blending simplicity with flavor that even novice cooks can master. With just a few ingredients and a little love, you can create a meal that not only impresses but also warms the heart. So, ready to uncover how to make your holiday feast shine? Let’s dive into this simple yet spectacular recipe that promises to be the star of your festive table!

Why is Honey-Glazed Ham a Holiday Favorite?

Sweet, Irresistible Flavor: The combination of honey and pineapple creates a mouth-watering glaze that caramelizes beautifully, ensuring every bite is a treat.

Simple Preparation: With minimal steps and ingredients, you can whip this dish up even if you’re short on time.

Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to all ages, making it perfect for family gatherings, from the youngest to the oldest.

Versatile Pairing Options: Serve it with classic sides like Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes or roasted root vegetables for a festive spread that pleases every palate.

An Eye-Catching Centerpiece: The vibrant glaze and decor of pineapple rings make this ham a beautiful focal point for your holiday table.

Transform your Christmas feast with this dish—your guests will be talking about it long after the meal is over!

Honey-Glazed Ham with Pineapple Ingredients

For the Ham

Bone-in Ham – This selection provides a rich flavor; serve a smaller ham for an intimate gathering.
Honey – Natural sweetness that creates the delicious glaze; use pure honey for the best results.
Brown Sugar – Adds depth and caramel notes; can be replaced with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
Pineapple Rings – Juicy and tangy, they enhance the glaze and decorate the ham beautifully; canned or fresh works well.
Dijon Mustard – Offers a slight tang that balances the sweetness; feel free to substitute with yellow mustard if preferred.

For the Glaze

Ground Cinnamon – A warm spice to complement the sweetness; nutmeg also works well for a different twist.
Cloves – A little goes a long way to add aromatic flavor; omit if you’re not a fan of spice.
Pineapple Juice – Enhance the glaze with tropical flair; use fresh juice for a brighter flavor.

With these ingredients, you’re one step closer to creating the perfect Honey-Glazed Ham with Pineapple that will be the highlight of your joyous feast!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey-Glazed Ham with Pineapple

Step 1: Prepare the Ham
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C) to ensure perfect cooking. While the oven heats, place the bone-in ham in a large roasting pan, flat side down. Score the top of the ham with shallow cuts, creating a diamond pattern. This not only helps the glaze seep in but also enhances the visual appeal of your Honey-Glazed Ham with Pineapple.

Step 2: Make the Glaze
In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard until smooth. Add ground cinnamon and cloves for an aromatic flavor, followed by pineapple juice. This mixture will be your glaze, enhancing the sweetness of the ham. Reserve a bit of glaze to brush on during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a beautiful, caramelized finish.

Step 3: Glaze the Ham
Generously brush the prepared glaze over the scored surface of the ham, ensuring the mixture seeps into the cuts. Add pineapple rings on top, securing them with toothpicks if necessary. This not only adds flavor but also elevates the presentation of your Honey-Glazed Ham with Pineapple. Once adorned, cover the ham loosely with foil to retain moisture while it cooks.

Step 4: Roast the Ham
Transfer the ham to the preheated oven and roast for approximately 15 minutes per pound. For a standard 8-pound ham, aim for roughly 2 hours. Periodically baste the ham with its own juices and the reserved glaze every 30 minutes to build layers of flavor and achieve a glossy finish. The ham is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).

Step 5: Final Glazing Touch
During the last 30 minutes of roasting, remove the foil so that the surface can caramelize beautifully. Brush the remaining glaze over the ham and allow it to roast uncovered, letting the heat create that alluring sheen and deep flavor we crave in a Honey-Glazed Ham with Pineapple.

Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once the ham is fully cooked and beautifully caramelized, remove it from the oven and tent it with foil. Allow it to rest for at least 15 minutes to lock in the juiciness. After resting, slice and serve this stunning centerpiece, showcasing the juicy pineapple rings for festive flair. Enjoy the compliments from your delighted guests!

Storage Tips for Honey-Glazed Ham with Pineapple

Fridge: Store leftover ham in an airtight container for up to 3 days; make sure to cover it tightly to retain moisture and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the ham slices securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, place slices of honey-glazed ham in a covered dish with a splash of pineapple juice or broth to prevent drying out. Heat in a 325°F (163°C) oven until warmed through.

Airtight Storage: Ensure that the glaze is well covered to maintain its rich, sweet flavor, an essential feature of your Honey-Glazed Ham with Pineapple.

Honey-Glazed Ham with Pineapple Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful recipe and make it truly yours!

Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the glaze for a savory twist that balances the sweetness beautifully. This touch of heat will surprise and delight your guests!
Maple-Glazed Version: Substitute honey with maple syrup for a richer flavor that adds depth and warmth to your ham. The fusion of maple and pineapple is absolutely divine!
Pineapple Teriyaki: Enhance the glaze by adding soy sauce and ginger for a unique Asian-inspired twist. This variation pairs beautifully with stir-fried veggies for a delightful table spread.
Citrus Zest: Toss in some grated orange or lemon zest to the glaze for a vibrant and refreshing citrus lift. The bright notes will brighten the flavors and take your dish to the next level!
Herbal Infusion: Incorporate fresh rosemary or thyme into the glaze for an aromatic herbal richness. This will elevate the flavor profile and impress your guests with unexpected complexity.
Quinoa Stuffing: For a twist on side dishes, stuff your ham with a mixture of quinoa, dried fruit, and nuts before baking. This not only adds flavor but also makes for a hearty and nutritious option.
Cranberry Glaze: Add cranberry sauce to the glaze mix for a festive, tart contrast that complements the sweetness. This can be a perfect way to incorporate those flavors from your leftover cranberry sauce.
Savory Mustard Kick: Experiment with different mustards, like spicy brown or honey mustard, to change the flavor of your glaze. Each mustard offers a unique kick that will open up new flavor profiles for your ham.

Feel free to explore these variations and give your festive meal a personal touch! Pair it up with delicious sides like Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes or Dijon Glazed Ham for an unforgettable holiday feast!

What to Serve with Honey-Glazed Ham with Pineapple

As the sweet aroma fills the air, it’s time to create a full holiday feast that enhances the delightful flavors of your centerpiece ham.

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: These velvety potatoes absorb the sweet glaze’s richness, creating a harmonious taste sensation with every bite.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Slightly charred and caramelized, they add a pop of color and a hint of bitterness, balancing the sweetness of the ham wonderfully.
Maple Glazed Carrots: Tender, sweet, and a bit sticky, these vibrant carrots offer an irresistible contrast to savory dishes on the table. A delightful blend of sweetness that complements the glaze on the ham!
Savory Stuffing: Packed with herbs and spices, stuffing elevates your meal by adding texture and welcoming comfort food elements that everyone loves.
Fresh Spinach Salad: Crisp spinach, tossed with juicy oranges and a light vinaigrette, adds freshness to counterbalance the hearty flavors of your meal.
Homemade Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of this sauce cuts through the richness of the ham, providing a delightful contrast that diners will enjoy.
Sweet Potato Casserole: With a crunchy topping of pecans and marshmallows, this dish embraces the festive spirit by adding depth and a sweet flair.
Eggnog Cheesecake: This creamy dessert wraps up your meal perfectly, continuing the festive vibe with its seasonal flavors and unique twist on a classic dessert.
Mulled Wine: Warm and spiced, this comforting drink invites guests to sip while enjoying the feast, enhancing the holiday ambiance.
Hot Apple Cider: A non-alcoholic option that warms the heart and the belly, it’s an inviting choice that mirrors the cozy flavors of your dinner spread.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Honey-Glazed Ham with Pineapple ahead of time can really streamline your holiday cooking! You can ideally glaze the ham up to 24 hours in advance. Simply score the ham and apply the glaze, then cover it tightly and refrigerate. This will infuse the flavors into the meat while keeping it tender. If you plan to prep even further ahead, consider cooking the ham completely and refrigerating for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat it in a 325°F (163°C) oven, covered with foil to prevent drying out, then remove it to caramelize the glaze for that perfect finish. With these make-ahead strategies, you’ll save time and enjoy a delicious centerpiece without the last-minute rush!

Expert Tips for Honey-Glazed Ham with Pineapple

Internal Temperature: Always ensure the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) for safety and optimal flavor.
Basting: Regularly baste your honey-glazed ham with its juices every 30 minutes to keep it moist and achieve a glossy finish.
Scoring Technique: Score the top of your ham in a diamond pattern to allow the glaze to penetrate deeply, enhancing the flavors of your Honey-Glazed Ham with Pineapple.
Resting Time: After removing from the oven, let the ham rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juice and flavor in each slice.
Glaze Reserve: Set aside some glaze before baking to brush on during the last 30 minutes for that perfect caramelized look and taste.

Honey-Glazed Ham with Pineapple Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best ham for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting a ham, look for a bone-in variety, as it tends to be juicier and more flavorful. Make sure it isn’t too close to the expiration date, and aim for a ham with a firm, moist texture. A weight of around 8-10 pounds is perfect for a festive gathering, ensuring generous portions for your guests.

What is the best way to store leftover honey-glazed ham?
Very good question! Store your leftover honey-glazed ham in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to wrap each piece tightly with plastic wrap or foil to lock in moisture and flavor. For longer storage, wrap the individual slices securely in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze honey-glazed ham for later use?
Absolutely! Freezing is a fantastic option if you anticipate leftovers. To freeze, slice the ham and wrap the pieces tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Label with the date, and enjoy your honey-glazed ham within 3 months for the best taste. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What should I do if my glaze doesn’t caramelize properly?
If your glaze isn’t caramelizing, don’t fret! First, ensure that you’re basting the ham regularly—every 30 minutes—with its juices and reserved glaze. If the surface looks pale after the designated cooking time, remove the foil during the last half hour of cooking to allow the sugars to caramelize. If needed, broil for a few minutes at the end, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

Is this honey-glazed ham safe for those with dietary restrictions?
Very important question! Many aspects of honey-glazed ham are safe for general consumption, but if there are specific allergies (such as to mustard), you can easily substitute it or leave it out. If someone is gluten intolerant, check the labels on the brown sugar and Dijon mustard, as some brands might add gluten. Always prepare with your guests’ dietary needs in mind.

How can I enhance the flavor of the honey-glazed ham?
A delightful idea! To elevate the flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the glaze. Another option is to experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg or smoked paprika, to add depth. If you enjoy a spicy kick, a pinch of cayenne pepper can balance the sweetness beautifully. Adjust to your palate, and don’t hesitate to taste as you go!