Let me tell you, the scent of a juicy ham glazed with sticky brown sugar and sweet pineapple slices wafting from the oven is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. The first time I baked this savory pineapple brown sugar ham, I was instantly hooked—the kind of moment where you pause, take a deep breath, and just smile because you know you’re onto something truly special. Years ago, when I was knee-high to a grasshopper, holiday feasts meant the usual roast and sides, but stumbling upon this recipe changed all of that for me.

Honestly, my family couldn’t stop sneaking the glazed ham off the platter (and I can’t really blame them). The combination of the caramelized brown sugar crust with the tangy pineapple slices creates a flavor profile that feels like a warm hug on a chilly night. You know what? This recipe is dangerously easy to pull together and brings pure, nostalgic comfort to your holiday table.

Whether you’re preparing a festive dinner, a Sunday family gathering, or looking to brighten up your Pinterest recipe board with something impressive and crowd-pleasing, this savory pineapple brown sugar ham recipe has got you covered. After testing it multiple times in the name of research, of course, it’s become a staple for family celebrations and gift-worthy meals. You’re going to want to bookmark this one.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

With a recipe as charming as this savory pineapple brown sugar ham, there’s plenty to love. Based on my many kitchen trials and feedback from friends and family, here’s why it stands out:

• Quick & Easy: Comes together in just about an hour, perfect for busy holidays or last-minute feast plans.
• Simple Ingredients: No need for fancy or hard-to-find items; you probably already have everything in your pantry.
• Perfect for Holiday Feasts: Makes a stunning centerpiece for Christmas, Easter, or any family gathering.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Always gets rave reviews from kids and adults alike — the sweet-savory combo is irresistible.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The perfect balance of caramelized brown sugar and juicy pineapple makes every bite a flavor bomb.

What really sets this ham apart is the secret to that perfectly sticky glaze. I use a blend of brown sugar and pineapple juice that caramelizes just right, coating the ham in a shiny, mouthwatering finish. Plus, the pineapple rings add that playful tang and a tropical flair that feels festive and fresh.

Honestly, this isn’t just another baked ham recipe; it’s the kind that makes you close your eyes after the first bite and smile. It’s comfort food reimagined—simple, fast, but with the same soul-soothing satisfaction you crave. Whether you’re impressing guests or just treating yourself, this recipe turns an ordinary ham into something truly memorable.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Most of these are pantry staples, but they come together to create a show-stopping ham you’ll want to make again and again.

• Bone-in smoked ham, about 6-8 pounds (the star of the show; I recommend a spiral-cut ham for easier slicing)
• Brown sugar, 1 ½ cups packed (dark brown sugar works great for richer flavor)
• Pineapple slices, 1 can (about 20 oz), drained but reserve juice (adds sweetness and a tangy zing)
• Pineapple juice, ½ cup (from the can, helps create the glaze)
• Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons (gives a subtle tang and depth)
• Ground cloves, 1 teaspoon (just enough to add that warm holiday spice)
• Whole cloves, about 20 (to stud the pineapple slices and ham for extra aroma)
• Unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons, melted (helps the glaze stick and adds richness)
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste (balances the sweetness)

Ingredient Tips: Look for a smoked ham labeled “pre-cooked” for convenience, and if you want a slightly healthier option, try a low-sodium variety. For pineapple, fresh slices can be used but canned gives that classic sweet glaze. I usually pick up brown sugar from trusted brands like Domino for consistent results.

Substitutions: Swap Dijon mustard with yellow mustard if that’s what you have on hand. Use maple syrup instead of some of the brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor. For a gluten-free glaze, double-check that your mustard and other ingredients are labeled gluten-free.

Equipment Needed

• Roasting pan with a rack – essential for even cooking and catching drippings (a budget-friendly option is a disposable foil pan with a rack)
• Basting brush – helps spread that gorgeous glaze evenly over the ham
• Sharp knife – for trimming and slicing the ham after baking (a carving knife works best)
• Meat thermometer – important to check internal temperature to avoid overcooking
• Baking foil – to tent the ham if it browns too quickly

I’ve tried baking this ham on a simple wire rack inside a rimmed baking sheet, and while it works, the roasting pan setup really helps keep the ham juicy and lets the glaze drip without burning. If you don’t have a meat thermometer, just keep a close eye on the cooking time—but honestly, a thermometer saves a lot of guesswork.

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This moderate temperature lets the ham heat through evenly without drying out.
2. Prepare the ham: Remove the ham from packaging and pat dry with paper towels. If your ham isn’t pre-scored, use a sharp knife to score the surface in a diamond pattern about ¼ inch deep. This helps the glaze soak in.
3. Place the ham on the roasting rack in your pan, flat side down. Tuck the pineapple slices into the scored diamonds, securing each slice with a whole clove in the center.
4. Mix the glaze: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, pineapple juice, Dijon mustard, melted butter, ground cloves, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir until smooth and glossy.
5. Brush the ham generously with about half of the glaze, making sure to coat all the exposed surfaces.
6. Cover the ham loosely with foil and place it in the oven. Bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, basting every 20 minutes with the remaining glaze. Remove the foil during the last 15 minutes to let the glaze caramelize and get that beautiful sticky finish.
7. Check for doneness: The ham should reach an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. If it’s done earlier, tent with foil to keep warm.
8. Rest the ham: Once out of the oven, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps every bite moist.

Pro tip: Keep an eye on the glaze as it caramelizes near the end to prevent burning. If it looks like it’s browning too fast, tent with foil again.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

One of the trickiest parts of making this savory pineapple brown sugar ham is getting the glaze just right—not too runny, not too thick. I’ve found that blending the pineapple juice with brown sugar before adding the butter helps the sugar dissolve better, preventing grainy patches. Also, basting regularly is key. Trust me, skipping this step leads to a dry ham that’s missing that signature sticky-sweet crust.

When scoring the ham, take care not to cut too deeply. You want the glaze to seep in, but cutting through the meat can cause drying. Use a sharp knife and steady hands for neat diamond cuts.

Another lesson learned through trial and error: always rest your ham before slicing. I once sliced right away and all the juices escaped, leaving it dry. Waiting just 10 minutes makes a huge difference.

Timing-wise, multitask by prepping side dishes while the ham bakes. The oven temperature is moderate enough to keep things flexible, so you don’t have to rush. And if your ham is larger or smaller, adjust the bake time roughly 15 minutes per additional pound or reduce accordingly.

Variations & Adaptations

• Dietary Twist: For a sugar-conscious version, swap brown sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like erythritol. The glaze will still caramelize nicely with a slightly different flavor.
• Seasonal Flavor: Add a splash of fresh orange juice or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a citrusy holiday twist that pairs beautifully with pineapple.
• Cooking Method: Try smoking the ham instead of baking for a deep smoky flavor. Use the same glaze recipe but apply it during the last 30 minutes of smoking to avoid burning.
• Allergen-Friendly: Use dairy-free butter substitutes if you want to keep it vegan-friendly (if using a plant-based ham) or to avoid dairy allergies.
• Personal Favorite Variation: One time, I added a splash of bourbon to the glaze—oh boy, it took the flavor into a whole new league! The caramel notes from the bourbon made this perfect for adult gatherings.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve your savory pineapple brown sugar ham warm, sliced thick or thin depending on your crowd’s preference. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a crisp green salad. A sweet Riesling or sparkling cider also complements the glaze nicely.

Leftovers? No worries. Wrap slices tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 275°F (135°C) covered with foil to keep moisture locked in. The flavors actually deepen after a day or two, making for an even tastier sandwich or salad topping.

If you want to freeze, slice the ham first and store portions in freezer-safe bags. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Just avoid freezing the whole glazed ham—it’s better fresh.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This savory pineapple brown sugar ham is a satisfying source of protein, with about 25 grams per 3-ounce (85 grams) serving. The pineapple adds vitamin C and manganese, supporting immunity and metabolism. Brown sugar provides quick energy from natural sugars, though it’s best enjoyed in moderation.

The recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be adapted for lower-sodium diets by selecting a low-sodium ham. Be mindful of allergens like mustard and dairy if you use butter in the glaze.

From a wellness perspective, this ham recipe balances indulgence with simple ingredients, making it a feel-good choice for festive meals without overly processed additives.

Conclusion

This savory pineapple brown sugar ham recipe is absolutely worth the kitchen time. It brings that perfect sweet-and-savory balance that everyone’s hunting for during holiday feasts. Honestly, it’s become one of my go-to recipes for impressing guests without fuss, and I bet you’ll love how it turns a simple ham into something special.

Feel free to tweak the glaze or swap ingredients based on your taste and dietary needs—cooking is all about making a recipe your own. If you give this one a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Drop your thoughts or any fun variations you come up with in the comments below.

Here’s to warm kitchens, joyful gatherings, and plenty of sticky, sweet ham to go around!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I bake a 6-pound ham?

At 325°F (163°C), bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, but always check the internal temperature reaching 140°F (60°C) for perfect doneness.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes! Fresh pineapple slices work great and add a fresher tang. Just be sure to reserve some pineapple juice or add a splash of fresh juice to the glaze.

What if I don’t have a meat thermometer?

Cook according to time guidelines, but check that the ham is hot throughout and the glaze is caramelized. A thermometer is recommended for best results.

Can I prepare this ham ahead of time?

You can glaze the ham and refrigerate it overnight. Bring it to room temperature before baking for even cooking.

Is this recipe suitable for a spiral-cut ham?

Absolutely! Spiral-cut ham makes serving easier and the glaze tastes incredible when brushed between slices.

Savory Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham Recipe Perfect for Holiday Feasts

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• Author: David
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 10-12 servings 1x

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Description

A juicy bone-in smoked ham glazed with a sticky brown sugar and pineapple glaze, perfect for holiday feasts and family gatherings. This easy recipe delivers a sweet-savory flavor that is sure to impress.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6–8 pounds bone-in smoked ham (preferably spiral-cut)
• 1 ½ cups packed brown sugar (dark brown sugar recommended)
• 1 can (about 20 oz) pineapple slices, drained (reserve juice)
• ½ cup pineapple juice (from the can)
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• About 20 whole cloves
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Remove the ham from packaging and pat dry with paper towels. Score the surface in a diamond pattern about ¼ inch deep if not pre-scored.
3. Place the ham on the roasting rack in your pan, flat side down. Tuck pineapple slices into the scored diamonds, securing each slice with a whole clove in the center.
4. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, pineapple juice, Dijon mustard, melted butter, ground cloves, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir until smooth and glossy.
5. Brush the ham generously with about half of the glaze, coating all exposed surfaces.
6. Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, basting every 20 minutes with the remaining glaze. Remove foil during the last 15 minutes to let the glaze caramelize and become sticky.
7. Check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). If done earlier, tent with foil to keep warm.
8. Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Use a pre-cooked smoked ham for convenience. Adjust baking time by about 15 minutes per additional pound. Basting regularly is key to a sticky-sweet crust. Rest ham before slicing to keep it moist. Tent with foil if glaze browns too quickly. Fresh pineapple can be used instead of canned but reserve juice for glaze. For a sugar-conscious version, substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or erythritol. Butter can be replaced with dairy-free alternatives for allergen-friendly options.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 ounces (85 grams)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 18
• Sodium: 900
• Fat: 10
• Saturated Fat: 3
• Carbohydrates: 20
• Protein: 25

Keywords: ham recipe, pineapple ham, brown sugar glaze, holiday ham, baked ham, savory ham, holiday feast, easy ham recipe