Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham: A Show-Stopping Centerpiece

Holidays, family dinners, and special occasions call for a dish that’s equal parts delicious and memorable. Sticky pineapple brown sugar glazed ham fits the bill perfectly. This recipe combines the sweet tang of pineapple, the deep richness of brown sugar, and a touch of spice to create a ham that’s caramelized, sticky, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply treating your family to a hearty meal, this ham is guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This glazed ham is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, and here’s why:

• Flavor-Packed: The pineapple and brown sugar glaze creates a sweet and savory crust that’s irresistible.
• Easy to Prepare: Minimal prep work and straightforward steps make it manageable for cooks of any skill level.
• Versatile: Perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or even Sunday dinners.
• Impressive Presentation: The caramelized glaze and pineapple accents create a stunning table centerpiece.

Ingredients for Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering masterpiece:

Category	Ingredient	Quantity
Meat	Ham, boneless	2 1/2 lbs
Produce	Pineapple (15-ounce can)	1
Condiments	Dijon mustard, ground coarse	2 tbsp
	Hickory liquid smoke	1 tsp
	Unsulphured molasses	1 tbsp
	Worcestershire sauce	1 tbsp
Baking & Spices	Brown sugar, packed dark	1/2 cup
	Allspice, ground	1 tsp
	Kosher salt & freshly ground pepper	To taste
	Cornstarch	2 tbsp mixed with water
Oils & Vinegars	Champagne vinegar	1/4 cup

Nutritional Highlights

This dish is as nutritious as it is delicious. Packed with protein and flavored with natural sweeteners like pineapple and molasses, it’s a well-balanced addition to your table. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving:

Nutrient	Amount (Per Serving)
Calories	320 kcal
Protein	28 g
Carbohydrates	12 g
Fat	18 g
Fiber	1 g

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

1. Prepare the Ham

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
• If the ham has a thick fat layer, trim it down, leaving about 1/4 inch for flavor.
• Score the surface of the ham with a sharp knife in a diamond pattern.

2. Create the Glaze

• In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine:
  • 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup champagne vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp unsulphured molasses
  • 1 tsp ground allspice
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp hickory liquid smoke
• Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly.

3. Add Pineapple

• Drain the can of pineapple, reserving the juice.
• Chop half the pineapple into small pieces and add it to the glaze mixture. Save the remaining slices for garnish.

4. Glaze the Ham

• Place the ham in a roasting pan lined with aluminum foil or a rack.
• Brush a generous amount of glaze over the ham, ensuring it seeps into the scored lines.

5. Roast the Ham

• Cover the ham loosely with foil to retain moisture.
• Roast in the preheated oven for 1 hour.

6. Baste and Finish

• After 1 hour, remove the foil and baste the ham with more glaze.
• Increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
• Roast for an additional 20-30 minutes, basting every 10 minutes, until the glaze is caramelized and sticky.

7. Garnish and Serve

• Arrange the reserved pineapple slices on top of the ham and secure them with toothpicks if needed.
• Let the ham rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

Cooking Tips for the Perfect Glazed Ham

1. Use High-Quality Ham: Opt for boneless ham for easy slicing and even cooking.
2. Don’t Skip the Scoring: This allows the glaze to penetrate the meat, enhancing flavor.
3. Keep Basting: Regular basting creates a glossy, caramelized finish.
4. Monitor the Glaze: Avoid burning by keeping an eye on the glaze during the final roasting stages.

Creative Variations for Your Sticky Pineapple Ham

• Add Spice: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
• Citrus Twist: Swap pineapple juice for orange or apple juice for a different flavor profile.
• Honey Glaze: Replace molasses with honey for a lighter, sweeter glaze.
• Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika along with liquid smoke for a deeper aroma.

FAQs About Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

1. Can I use a bone-in ham for this recipe?
Yes, bone-in ham works perfectly. Just adjust the cooking time to accommodate the larger size.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Wrap leftover ham tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

3. Can I freeze glazed ham?
Absolutely! Slice and freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

4. What can I do with leftover glaze?
Drizzle it over roasted vegetables or use it as a dipping sauce for bread or rolls.

5. Is it possible to prepare this ham in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook the ham on low for 4-5 hours, basting occasionally, and finish in the oven to caramelize the glaze.

6. What side dishes pair well with this ham?
Mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, and dinner rolls complement this dish beautifully.

Why You Should Try This Recipe Today

Sticky pineapple brown sugar glazed ham is more than a dish—it’s a centerpiece that brings people together. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or enjoying a casual dinner, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors. With its stunning presentation and unbeatable taste, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Gather your ingredients and make this ham the star of your next meal—you won’t be disappointed!

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