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Glazed Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham
My family's most requested holiday ham never fails to bring smiles around our dinner table. The sticky sweet glaze made with brown sugar and juicy pineapple turns this spiral ham into pure magic. Every bite melts in your mouth with that perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Trust me your guests will be begging for seconds.
Why This Recipe Works
After years of testing different glazes in my kitchen this combination hits all the right notes. The brown sugar creates that gorgeous caramel coating while pineapple adds tropical brightness. I love adding a splash of cola for extra depth it's my secret ingredient that makes this ham truly special. Perfect for Easter Christmas or any gathering where you want to wow your loved ones.
What You'll Need
- Dark brown sugar: 1 cup packed tightly. Fresh sugar makes all the difference in getting that perfect sticky glaze.
- Cola or Dr. Pepper: 12 oz adds richness and helps tenderize the meat.
- Apple cider vinegar: 2 tbsp cuts through sweetness with a bright tang.
- Low-sodium soy sauce: 1 tbsp brings savory depth without too much salt.
- Mustards (Dijon and grainy): 1 ½ tbsp each adds zip and texture.
- Ground ginger and onion powder: 1 tsp and ½ tsp respectively create warmth and aroma.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: ¼ tsp gives subtle warmth.
- City ham: 6-9 lb spiral-sliced ham scored for better flavor.
- Canned crushed pineapple: 20 oz makes the glaze extra special.
Let's Make It
- Make Your Glaze:
- Mix glaze ingredients in a saucepan. Let it bubble over medium heat then simmer while stirring for 20-30 minutes until syrupy. Set aside.
- Get Ready:
- Heat oven to 325°F. Score ham surface with shallow cuts 1 inch apart. Place in baking dish and cover with foil.
- First Cook:
- Pop the covered ham in the oven for 1 hour.
- Time to Glaze:
- Brush half the glaze on ham getting into all those cuts. Layer pineapple over top and drizzle more glaze.
- Final Bake:
- Cook uncovered basting every 10 minutes with pan juices until internal temp hits 140°F about 40-60 minutes.
- Ready to Enjoy:
- Let rest briefly before slicing.
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Serving Tips From My Kitchen
Serve this beauty while still warm alongside creamy mashed potatoes and green beans. In my experience leftovers stay good wrapped in foil in the fridge for 4 days. Pop extras in the freezer and they'll keep for 2 months perfect for quick family dinners.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
No, you must use canned or cooked pineapple. Fresh pineapple contains enzymes that break down the meat and turn your ham mushy. Canned pineapple has been processed to remove these enzymes.
- → How long can I store leftover ham?
You can keep the ham in an airtight container in your fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to store it longer, put it in the freezer where it'll stay good for about 2 months.
- → What's the best way to check if the ham is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The ham is ready when it reaches 140°F. Make sure to insert the thermometer into the thickest part without touching bone.
- → Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the glaze a day before. Store it in the fridge and warm it up slightly before using so it spreads easily on the ham.
- → What side dishes go well with this ham?
Serve your ham with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted vegetables. The sweet glaze pairs nicely with savory sides, and the leftovers make great sandwiches.