Perfect Honey Baked Ham Recipe with Easy Pineapple Glaze for Holidays

Let me tell you, the scent of a perfectly baked ham, sticky with honey and pineapple glaze, wafting through the kitchen is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. The first time I baked this honey baked ham with pineapple glaze, 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, my grandma used to make ham for holiday dinners, but this recipe is my own spin, discovered on a rainy weekend when I wanted something comforting yet impressively tasty.

Honestly, my family couldn’t stop sneaking slices off the cooling rack (and I can’t really blame them). This perfect honey baked ham recipe with easy pineapple glaze has become a staple for holiday gatherings, potlucks, and even casual Sunday dinners. You know what makes it so irresistible? The sweet-tangy pineapple glaze that caramelizes just right, wrapping the ham in sticky, golden goodness. It’s dangerously easy and delivers pure, nostalgic comfort every time. Whether you’re looking to brighten up your holiday table or impress your guests with minimal fuss, this recipe is your go-to.

I’ve tested this ham multiple times (in the name of research, of course), tweaking the glaze until it struck just the right balance. It feels like a warm hug on a plate, and you’re going to want to bookmark this one for every special occasion that calls for a show-stopping main dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

After many trials and a few happy accidents, I can confidently say this perfect honey baked ham with pineapple glaze hits all the right notes. Here’s why this recipe stands out and why you’ll want to keep it in your holiday arsenal:

• Quick & Easy: Comes together in under 2 hours, perfect for busy holiday prep or last-minute dinner plans.
• Simple Ingredients: No fancy grocery trips needed; you likely already have the staples like honey, brown sugar, and canned pineapple.
• Perfect for Holidays & Gatherings: Great for Christmas dinner, Easter brunch, or any festive occasion where you want a crowd-pleaser.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Always gets rave reviews from adults and kids alike—sweet, savory, and juicy in every bite.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The pineapple glaze caramelizes beautifully to give the ham a glossy, sticky finish that’s both tangy and sweet.

This isn’t just another ham recipe—you’ll notice the difference in the perfectly balanced glaze that isn’t too sugary or overpowering. The secret is in the easy pineapple glaze, which brings a fresh tropical twist without any complicated steps. Plus, it’s a recipe that makes you close your eyes after the first bite and smile. It’s comfort food with a little flair, ideal for impressing guests without stress or turning a simple meal into a memorable feast.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without any fuss. Most of these are pantry staples or easy to find in any grocery store, and substitutions are straightforward if needed.

• For the Ham:
  • 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds) – I recommend a spiral-cut ham for easy slicing and beautiful presentation
  • Whole cloves (optional) – for studding the ham and adding subtle warm spice
• For the Pineapple Glaze:
  • 1 cup pineapple juice (use canned for best flavor)
  • 1/2 cup honey (raw or wildflower honey works great for depth)
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark, depending on your preference for richness)
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (adds tang and balances sweetness)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for warm spice notes)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (to thicken glaze)
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained (adds texture and bursts of sweetness)

Ingredient tips: Look for firm pineapple juice and avoid those with added sugars to keep the glaze balanced. If you want a dairy-free or vegan substitute for honey, maple syrup works well but changes the flavor slightly. For gluten-free cooking, this recipe is naturally safe as is.

Equipment Needed

• Large roasting pan with rack – helps keep the ham elevated and juices circulating
• Sharp knife and carving fork – essential for studding and slicing the ham
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise glaze mixing
• Small saucepan – to simmer and thicken the pineapple glaze
• Basting brush – for applying glaze evenly
• Aluminum foil – to tent the ham during resting and prevent drying out

If you don’t have a roasting rack, you can use a bed of thickly sliced onions or carrots to elevate the ham. For basting, a silicone brush works best since it holds glaze well and cleans up easily. I’ve also used disposable foil pans for easier cleanup when cooking for a crowd—budget-friendly and practical.

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This moderate temperature allows the ham to heat through gently without drying out. Prepare your roasting pan by placing the rack inside.
2. Prepare the ham: Remove the ham from packaging and pat dry with paper towels. If your ham isn’t spiral-cut, score the surface in a diamond pattern about 1/4 inch deep. Optionally, stud whole cloves into the intersections of the diamond cuts for that classic look and subtle flavor. Place the ham on the roasting rack, flat side down.
3. Make the pineapple glaze: In a small saucepan, combine pineapple juice, honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and cinnamon. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the flavors meld. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and crushed pineapple, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the glaze thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Apply the first layer of glaze: Using a basting brush, generously coat the ham with the pineapple glaze. Reserve some glaze for later basting.
5. Roast the ham: Place the roasting pan in the oven. Bake uncovered for about 1 hour 15 minutes, basting every 20 minutes with the reserved glaze. This slow roasting allows the glaze to caramelize and the ham to absorb the sweet pineapple flavor. Watch carefully during the last 15 minutes so the glaze doesn’t burn—if it starts to get too dark, tent the ham loosely with foil.
6. Check for temperature: The ham is precooked, so you’re really heating it through. The internal temperature should reach around 140°F (60°C) when done. Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part for accuracy.
7. Rest the ham: Remove the ham from the oven and tent with foil. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This keeps the juices locked in and makes slicing easier.
8. Carve and serve: Slice the ham thinly against the grain, serve with any extra glaze on the side, and watch your guests go back for seconds.

Pro tip: If you want an extra sticky glaze finish, brush the ham with a final coat of glaze and broil for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully so it doesn’t burn. The aroma alone will have everyone gathered around the kitchen!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

When cooking a ham like this, timing and temperature make all the difference. You know how easy it is to dry out ham if overcooked, so keep a close eye on that internal temperature. Because the ham is already cooked, your goal is warming and glazing, not cooking from raw.

Using a roasting rack really helps air circulate and keeps the bottom from stewing in its juices, which can make the texture gummy. I learned this the hard way on my first attempt (trust me, you want that rack!).

For the glaze, patience is key. Let it simmer slowly so the flavors meld and the sugar dissolves fully before adding the cornstarch. This prevents any grainy texture and helps the glaze stick perfectly to the ham. Also, save some glaze for basting—don’t slather it all at once or it won’t build those beautiful layers of flavor.

If you’re short on time, you can prepare the glaze a day ahead and refrigerate it; just warm it up gently before using. Multitasking is a lifesaver during holiday cooking, so prepping your tools and ingredients in advance will keep you calm and make the process smooth.

Finally, resting the ham after baking is one of those little things that pays off big. It lets the juices redistribute and makes slicing neater. I once skipped resting and ended up with a dry ham and a mess on my cutting board—lesson learned!

Variations & Adaptations

This recipe is flexible and can be tweaked to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

• Spicy Pineapple Glaze: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze for a sweet-heat combo that wakes up your taste buds.
• Maple & Pineapple Glaze: Swap honey for pure maple syrup for a deeper, woodsy sweetness. It pairs beautifully with the pineapple’s brightness.
• Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but double-check your Dijon mustard and cornstarch brands to avoid hidden gluten.
• Slow Cooker Version: Place the ham in a slow cooker with some pineapple juice and glaze, cooking on low for 3-4 hours. This yields super tender ham with less hands-on time.
• Personal Twist: Once, I added a splash of bourbon to the glaze which gave it a warm, boozy undertone that my family absolutely loved during a chilly winter dinner.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve your perfect honey baked ham warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture. It pairs wonderfully with classic sides like scalloped potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. For drinks, try sparkling cider or a crisp white wine to cut through the sweetness.

If you have leftovers (and you probably will!), wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze slices in airtight bags for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheat gently in a low oven (about 275°F / 135°C) covered with foil to keep the ham moist. Adding a spoonful of leftover glaze over slices before warming brings back that sticky, luscious coating.

Interestingly, letting the ham sit overnight after glazing helps the flavors deepen and the glaze soak in even more—sometimes, it tastes even better the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This perfect honey baked ham with pineapple glaze offers a balanced treat when enjoyed in moderation. A typical serving (about 3 ounces / 85 grams) contains approximately 250 calories, 20 grams of protein, 6 grams of fat, and 15 grams of sugar from the glaze.

Ham is a good source of protein and essential minerals like zinc and iron. The pineapple adds vitamin C and antioxidants, while the honey provides natural sweetness without refined sugars.

For those watching carbs, this recipe is moderate due to the glaze sugars but can be adjusted by reducing honey or brown sugar. It’s naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a versatile choice for many diets.

Personally, I enjoy this recipe as a special occasion dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome, reminding me that comfort and care can go hand in hand in the kitchen.

Conclusion

If you’re searching for a holiday centerpiece that’s both impressive and easy, this perfect honey baked ham with easy pineapple glaze is your answer. The combination of sweet pineapple, sticky honey, and savory ham creates a flavor profile that’s unforgettable and sure to become a family favorite.

Feel free to tweak the glaze or try one of the variations to make it your own. I love this recipe because it brings people together—whether it’s a cozy dinner or a festive celebration, it never disappoints.

Give it a try, share your adaptations in the comments, and let me know how your family reacts (spoiler: they’ll probably want seconds!). Here’s to many delicious meals ahead and memories made around the table!

FAQs

Can I use a pre-sliced spiral ham for this recipe?

Absolutely! A spiral-cut ham works perfectly and makes serving easier. Just adjust the glazing time slightly since it heats faster.

How do I prevent the glaze from burning in the oven?

Keep an eye on the ham during the last 15 minutes and tent with foil if the glaze starts to darken too quickly. Basting regularly also helps.

Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the pineapple glaze a day in advance. Store it in the fridge and gently warm before applying to the ham.

Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free, but double-check your mustard and cornstarch labels just to be safe.

What sides pair best with honey baked ham?

Classic mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, green beans, and a fresh salad are great choices. For a festive touch, try sweet potato casserole or cranberry sauce.

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