Perfect Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Pineapple and Cherries Recipe

Posted on November 18, 2025

Introduction

Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like the smell of a brown sugar glazed ham with pineapple and cherries wafting through the kitchen on a cozy holiday morning. The sweet, sticky glaze caramelizing over the salty ham—it’s the kind of aroma that makes everyone wander into the kitchen, pretending they just “happened to be passing by.” The first time I made this ham, I remember standing there in awe, watching the glaze bubble and turn that perfect golden amber color. It was one of those moments where you pause, take a deep breath, and think, “Yep, this is going to be special.”

Years ago, when I was knee-high to a grasshopper, my grandmother used to make a version of this at Easter. She’d stud the ham with cloves and decorate it with pineapple rings and bright red cherries like little jewels. She never used exact measurements—just a generous handful of brown sugar and a splash of vinegar—but somehow, it always turned out divine. I spent years trying to recreate that same nostalgic flavor, and when I finally nailed it, it felt like a warm hug from the past.

Honestly, this recipe is dangerously easy. Once you’ve tasted the rich, sweet glaze mingling with juicy ham and tangy pineapple, you’ll understand why it’s a family favorite. My kids can’t resist sneaking pieces straight off the cutting board (and I can’t really blame them). Whether you’re making it for Christmas, Easter, or a Sunday dinner that deserves something special, this perfect brown sugar glazed ham with pineapple and cherries is pure comfort food magic. I’ve tested it more times than I’ll admit—in the name of research, of course—and it’s become our go-to for gatherings and gift meals alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just another ham recipe—it’s the one that makes everyone stop mid-bite and say, “Oh wow.” After years of holiday cooking and testing countless glaze combinations, I can confidently say this version hits all the right notes: sweet, savory, tangy, and just a little sticky.

Quick & Easy: You can prep it in under 15 minutes, and the oven does most of the work while your house fills with that irresistible aroma.
Simple Ingredients: No gourmet shopping trips here—everything you need is likely already in your pantry or fridge.
Perfect for Holidays: Ideal for Christmas, Easter brunch, or any festive dinner where you want that “wow” moment.
Crowd-Pleaser: Kids love the sweetness, adults love the balance—it’s the rare dish that everyone agrees on.
Unbelievably Delicious: The glaze melts into the ham, creating a glossy finish that tastes as good as it looks.

What makes this brown sugar glazed ham with pineapple and cherries stand out is the balance of flavors. The brown sugar’s deep molasses tone pairs with the tangy pineapple juice, while the cherries add pops of color and sweetness. A touch of Dijon mustard brings subtle sharpness that cuts through the richness. It’s not just good—it’s comfort food perfection reimagined for today’s home cook. You can impress guests without breaking a sweat and create a centerpiece that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to create bold flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. You don’t need anything fancy—just a few pantry staples that work beautifully together.

Whole Bone-In Ham (about 8–10 lbs / 3.6–4.5 kg) – spiral-cut preferred for easier serving and better glaze absorption.
Brown Sugar (1 cup / 200 g, packed) – light or dark works, but dark brown sugar gives deeper caramel flavor.
Pineapple Rings (1 can / about 8 slices) – use canned in juice, not syrup, for the right balance of sweetness.
Maraschino Cherries (about 16–20 pieces) – for that classic pop of color and old-fashioned charm.
Pineapple Juice (1 cup / 240 ml) – reserved from the can or fresh juice; adds tangy brightness to the glaze.
Dijon Mustard (2 tbsp / 30 g) – helps cut through the sweetness and enrich the glaze.
Apple Cider Vinegar (2 tbsp / 30 ml) – balances flavors and helps tenderize the meat.
Cloves (whole, optional) – for traditional studding and warm spice notes.
Honey (2 tbsp / 30 ml) – adds shine and extra depth to the glaze.
Cornstarch (1 tbsp / 8 g, optional) – if you prefer a thicker glaze consistency.

I often use Dole pineapple rings because they hold up beautifully during baking. If you’re making this in summer and have fresh pineapple, go ahead and use it—it gives a brighter flavor. For a gluten-free option, double-check your ham glaze ingredients, as some pre-glazed hams can contain additives. You can also substitute maple syrup for honey if you prefer a different sweetness profile.

Equipment Needed

Large Roasting Pan – big enough to fit your ham comfortably, with room for the glaze.
Aluminum Foil – to tent the ham and prevent over-browning.
Basting Brush – for brushing on that beautiful glaze throughout baking.
Meat Thermometer – ensures the ham is heated perfectly to 140°F (60°C).
Small Saucepan – for simmering and thickening the glaze.
Tongs or Carving Knife – for serving those juicy slices.

If you don’t have a roasting pan, a deep casserole dish will do just fine. I’ve also used a disposable foil pan for easy cleanup, especially when bringing it to potlucks. A silicone basting brush works best for applying glaze evenly, and a reliable thermometer saves you from guessing when it’s done!

Preparation Method

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Place your ham cut-side down in a large roasting pan. If it’s spiral-cut, gently separate a few layers to let the glaze seep in.
In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, pineapple juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Heat over medium until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to bubble (about 4–5 minutes). If you want a thicker glaze, whisk in cornstarch and simmer another minute.
Brush the ham generously with the glaze, covering all visible surfaces. Reserve about half the glaze for later.
Arrange pineapple rings over the ham and secure with toothpicks. Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each ring for that classic look.
Lightly tent the ham with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.
After the first hour, remove the foil and baste with more glaze. Continue baking for another 1½ to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes. The total cooking time should be about 15–18 minutes per pound.
Check the internal temperature—it should reach 140°F (60°C). When it’s done, the glaze should be caramelized and sticky, and the ham edges slightly crisp.
Remove from the oven and let rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meat tender.
Before serving, brush lightly with any remaining glaze for that glossy finish.

Tip: If your glaze starts to thicken too much while baking, add a tablespoon of pineapple juice to loosen it. The smell in your kitchen will be pure heaven—sweet, tangy, and savory all at once.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

One thing I’ve learned after making this recipe countless times is that patience pays off. Let the glaze caramelize slowly, and don’t rush the basting process. The layering of flavors happens gradually, and every brush of glaze adds another dimension.

Always start with a fully thawed ham for even cooking.
Baste regularly—every 30 minutes keeps the exterior moist and glossy.
Don’t skip resting time; it’s key to juicy slices.
If your oven runs hot, tent loosely with foil toward the end to prevent burning the sugar.
For added depth, you can mix a spoonful of orange marmalade or apricot jam into the glaze.

I’ve made the mistake of cranking up the temperature once to “speed things up”—big error! The glaze burned before the ham heated through. So, low and slow is the way to go. And if you’re multitasking during the holidays, this ham is forgiving—it stays tender even if you leave it resting longer than planned.

Variations & Adaptations

There are plenty of ways to make this brown sugar glazed ham with pineapple and cherries your own.

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper to the glaze for a sweet-heat twist.
Maple Glaze: Swap half the brown sugar for pure maple syrup—perfect for autumn gatherings.
Low-Sugar Version: Use a brown sugar substitute and skip the honey. The pineapple still provides natural sweetness.
Fresh Fruit Twist: In summer, try fresh pineapple and cherries for a lighter, brighter version.
Slow Cooker Adaptation: Cook on low for 4–5 hours, glazing occasionally. This method keeps the ham tender and juicy.

My personal favorite variation is adding a splash of bourbon to the glaze (just a tablespoon). It adds richness and depth—definitely a grown-up version that tastes incredible.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve your brown sugar glazed ham with pineapple and cherries warm, right from the oven. The glossy glaze shines beautifully on a serving platter, so let it be your centerpiece. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad for balance.

Leftovers are fantastic for sandwiches the next day—especially with a bit of leftover glaze spread on the bread. Store slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze portions tightly wrapped for up to two months. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C), covered with foil, until warm. The flavor deepens overnight, and honestly, it might taste even better the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

A typical serving (about 4 oz / 115 g) of glazed ham provides roughly 250–300 calories, depending on glaze thickness. It’s rich in protein and packed with flavor, while the pineapple adds vitamin C and natural sweetness. Brown sugar brings that comforting caramel note without overwhelming the dish.

If you’re watching sodium intake, choose a low-salt ham or rinse it lightly before cooking. This recipe can easily fit into balanced meal planning—it’s satisfying and indulgent but not overly heavy. From a wellness perspective, I love that it combines lean protein with fruit-based glaze, offering a nice mix of sweet and savory nourishment.

Conclusion

There’s a reason this perfect brown sugar glazed ham with pineapple and cherries has stood the test of time—it’s simply irresistible. The combination of caramelized sugar, tangy fruit, and tender ham creates a harmony that feels like home. It’s festive, comforting, and surprisingly easy to pull off.

Every time I make it, I’m reminded why I love cooking—bringing joy through food that tells a story. So grab your roasting pan, tie on your apron, and give this recipe a try. I’d love to hear how yours turns out or what creative twist you add. Leave a comment, share it with friends, and make it a staple at your next family gathering. Because honestly, this one feels like a warm hug—and who doesn’t need that once in a while?

FAQs

Can I use a boneless ham for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Boneless hams work just fine, but bone-in versions tend to stay juicier and have richer flavor.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare it up to two days in advance and store it in the fridge. Warm slightly before using to make brushing easier.

What if I don’t have pineapple rings?

You can use crushed pineapple or chunks—just spoon them over the ham instead of arranging rings.

How do I prevent the glaze from burning?

Keep the oven at a moderate temperature and tent the ham with foil if it’s browning too quickly toward the end.

Can I serve this cold?

Yes, it’s delicious cold too! Chill overnight and slice thin for sandwiches or charcuterie-style platters.