As the holidays inch closer, the anticipation of family gatherings and festive meals fills the air with excitement. I was inspired to recreate a classic dish that never fails to impress: Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham. Imagine the sweet and savory aroma wafting through your kitchen, beckoning loved ones to the table. This recipe transforms a simple ham into a show-stopping centerpiece, draped in a sticky glaze that gleams under the warm glow of candlelight.
What’s truly remarkable about this dish is how effortlessly it brings comfort and joy without demanding hours in the kitchen. In under 75 minutes, you can create a flavorful masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds. The combination of succulent ham with tangy pineapple juice and rich brown sugar creates a taste sensation that is simply unforgettable. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just a few, this sticky glaze will elevate your dinner to new heights. Grab your apron, and let’s dive into a recipe that’s destined to become a family favorite!
Why is Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham irresistible?
Irresistible Flavor: The sweet and savory combination of brown sugar and pineapple creates a delightful glaze that truly tantalizes the taste buds.
Easy Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this dish allows you to focus on enjoying the company of family and friends rather than spending hours in the kitchen.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this sticky ham is sure to impress and has everyone coming back for seconds.
Versatile Pairing: Whether served alongside classic sides or fresh salads, this ham fits seamlessly into any dinner spread.
Memorable Presentation: The glossy finish and beautiful layers make it a stunning centerpiece for any holiday table. You won’t just be serving ham; you’ll be serving a piece of delicious art!
For more easy and festive meal ideas, check out our holiday recipes.
Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham Ingredients
For the Ham
• Boneless, sliced ham – 2.5 lbs provides the perfect base for this sticky masterpiece, ensuring each slice is tender and flavorful.
For the Glaze
• Pineapple slices – 1 (15-ounce) can adds sweetness and moisture, complementing the savory ham beautifully.
• Dark brown sugar – ½ cup packed brings rich sweetness that forms a delightful caramelized crust.
• Champagne vinegar (or white wine vinegar) – ¼ cup offers a tangy kick that balances the sweetness.
• Coarse ground dijon mustard – 2 tablespoons enhances the flavor profile with a hint of sharpness.
• Unsulphured molasses – 1 tablespoon deepens the glaze with its rich, complex sweetness.
• Worcestershire sauce – 1 tablespoon adds depth, rounding out the flavor with a savory note.
• Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper – to taste, elevates all the flavors in the dish beautifully.
• Ground allspice – 1 teaspoon delivers a warm spice that adds a comforting layer to the glaze.
• Hickory liquid smoke – 1 teaspoon infuses the ham with that sought-after smokiness, even without smoking it.
• Cornstarch – 2 tablespoons mixed with ½ cup water for a slurry, helps thicken the glaze to a syrup-like consistency.
Now that you have all the ingredients for the Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham, gather them up and let’s get cooking! Your kitchen is about to overflow with an aroma that’s sure to tug at the heartstrings.
How to Make Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. This sets the stage for even cooking, ensuring your ham will be perfectly heated throughout.
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Prepare the Ham: Remove the ham from its packaging and gently pat it dry with a paper towel. Place the sliced ham in a lightly sprayed baking dish, arranging the slices with the majority exposed for optimal glazing. Nestle the pineapple slices in between the ham slices—this adds flavor and moisture!
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Make the Glaze: In a medium saucepan, combine the pineapple juice, brown sugar, vinegar, dijon mustard, molasses, worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, allspice, and liquid smoke. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 4-5 minutes, until it melds beautifully.
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Thicken the Glaze: Add the cornstarch slurry to the sauce, stirring it well until the texture becomes thick and syrupy. Remove it from heat, and prepare to indulge!
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First Bake: Pour half of the luscious glaze over the ham, ensuring it seeps between the slices. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil, and bake for 30 minutes at 325°F.
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Increase the Heat: Once the first baking is complete, take the ham out, remove the foil, and increase the oven temperature to 425°F. This step is key to achieving that heavenly caramelized finish!
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Final Glaze: Generously coat the exposed ham with the remaining glaze, making sure it fills all the gaps in between the slices. Bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until the glaze is glossy and golden brown.
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Rest Before Serving: Once done, take the ham from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer your beautifully glazed ham along with the pineapple slices to a serving platter.
Optional: Serve with fresh herbs for a pop of color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham
Fridge: Enjoy your leftover sticky pineapple brown sugar glazed ham in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container to keep it moist and flavorful.
Freezer: If you want to save it for later, you can freeze the glazed ham for up to 2 months. Slice it into portions, wrap each piece in foil, and place them in a freezer bag for optimal freshness.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw the frozen ham in the fridge overnight and then warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. You can brush it with a little extra glaze for added flavor!
Expert Tips for Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham
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Choose Quality Ham: Select a high-quality, boneless ham for the best flavor. A higher fat content will keep the meat moist and tender.
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Pineapple Placement: Nestle pineapple slices not only adds flavor but also helps retain moisture, preventing the ham from drying out.
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Watch the Glaze: Be vigilant while glazing at 425°F; it can caramelize quickly! Keep an eye on the ham to avoid burning the glaze.
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Resting Time: Allowing the ham to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing helps it retain its juices. This step is key to achieving that juicy, flavorful bite.
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Flavor Adjustments: Feel free to tweak the glaze ingredients according to your taste. A dash more Worcestershire sauce or a little less sugar can make a noticeable difference.
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Make It Ahead: For convenience, you can prepare the glaze a day in advance. Just reheat it before drizzling over the ham for less last-minute stress!
Make Ahead Options
Busy home cooks will love how you can prep the Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham ahead of time! You can prepare the entire glaze and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—this allows the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully. Additionally, you can also layer the sliced ham and pineapple in the baking dish, ready to go, for up to 24 hours in advance. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply pour the prepped glaze over the ham and follow the baking instructions. This way, you’ll have a stunning centerpiece with minimal day-of fuss!
Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham Variations
Customize this sticky delight to suit your taste buds and make it your own!
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Pineapple Variations: Use fresh pineapple instead of canned for a vibrant flavor and firmer texture. Just slice and grill lightly to enhance the sweetness.
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Sugar Swaps: Try using honey or maple syrup in place of brown sugar for a different sweetness that adds its own unique flavor twist.
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Vinegar Options: Substitute apple cider vinegar for champagne vinegar to impart a fruitier kick that mingles beautifully with the ham’s sweetness.
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Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze for a delightful spicy contrast against the sugary sweetness.
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Mustard Varieties: Swap regular dijon mustard with spicy brown or even sweet hot mustard for an exciting flavor change that can turn heads.
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Texture Twist: Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the glaze before baking for a crunchy texture to complement the gooey glaze.
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Smoky Alternative: For an even deeper smoked flavor, try using smoked paprika instead of liquid smoke; it brings a warm richness to each bite.
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Gluten-Free Adaptation: Ensure all ingredients are gluten-free and use a gluten-free soy sauce instead of Worcestershire sauce for those with dietary restrictions.
Feel free to mix and match these variations to create the perfect Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham that your family will adore!
What to Serve with Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham?
The beautiful aroma of your ham is only half the magic—let’s create a feast that dazzles the senses and warms the heart!
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These fluffy potatoes offer a delightful contrast to the sticky sweetness of the ham, providing a rich and comforting side that everyone adores. A dollop of gravy over the top adds an irresistible touch.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, honey-glazed carrots bring a vibrant burst of color to your plate. Their natural sweetness complements the pineapple glaze, making for a harmonious pairing.
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Garlicky Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed in garlic and a hint of lemon lend a fresh, zesty note that balances the rich flavors of the ham. They also bring a lovely crunch to your meal.
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Baked Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy, cheesy goodness never fails to impress! This side dish adds a comforting, nostalgic element that perfectly offsets the sticky ham, making for a memorable dinner experience.
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Fruit Salad with Mint: A vibrant medley of fresh fruits like strawberries, kiwi, and pineapple can act as a refreshing palate cleanser. The mint adds an aromatic lift, creating a delightful contrast to the savory ham.
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Buttery Cornbread: Soft, sweet, and buttery, cornbread is the perfect tool for soaking up any extra glaze left on your plate. This warm bread adds a southern charm that pairs beautifully with your holiday ham.
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Crisp Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the ham. A sprinkle of parmesan elevates this salad to a delightful side dish.
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Sparkling Apple Cider: Keep the celebratory spirit alive with a glass of sparkling apple cider. Its fizzy sweetness complements the ham nicely while refreshing the palate amid the savory flavors.
Create a delightful dining experience with these pairings that perfectly accompany your Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham!
Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ham?
Absolutely! When selecting your boneless sliced ham, look for one with a rich pink color and little to no dark spots. Opt for a ham with a higher fat content as it will help keep the meat juicy and tender while cooking.
How long can I store leftover ham?
You can enjoy your leftover sticky pineapple brown sugar glazed ham in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to help retain its moisture and flavor.
Can I freeze my glazed ham?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your ham, slice it into manageable portions, wrap each piece tightly in aluminum foil, and then place them all in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge.
What if my glaze isn’t thick enough?
No worries! If your glaze hasn’t thickened to your liking, return it to the stovetop and simmer it for a few more minutes while stirring. If it’s still too thin, you can create a new slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this mixture into the glaze and cook until it reaches the desired consistency.
Is this recipe suitable for my gluten-free friends?
The sticky pineapple brown sugar glazed ham can easily be made gluten-free with a few adjustments. Use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and confirm that your dijon mustard is also gluten-free. Your gluten-free friends will appreciate the thoughtful touch!
How should I reheat frozen glazed ham?
To reheat your frozen sticky pineapple brown sugar glazed ham, begin by thawing it in the fridge overnight. Then, preheat your oven to 350°F, place the ham in a baking dish, and warm it for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. For an extra burst of flavor, brush it with a bit of leftover glaze before reheating!
Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham That's Pure Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F.
- Remove the ham from its packaging and gently pat it dry. Place the ham in a lightly sprayed baking dish, arranging the slices with the majority exposed.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the pineapple juice, brown sugar, vinegar, mustard, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, allspice, and liquid smoke. Stir together and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 4-5 minutes.
- Add the cornstarch slurry, stirring until the texture becomes thick and syrupy.
- Pour half of the glaze over the ham and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 30 minutes.
- Increase the temperature to 425°F, remove the foil, and coat the ham with the remaining glaze. Bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes.
- Let the ham rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.