How do I know when my ham is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F .

Can I make this recipe ahead?

Yes! Cook the ham, refrigerate it, and reheat with a fresh layer of glaze before serving.

What can I use instead of a roasting pan?

A deep baking dish works just fine.

How do I slice a ham properly?

Cut against the grain for the most tender slices.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 3 months .

What sides pair best with this ham?

Think mashed potatoes, green beans, or warm dinner rolls.

What’s the secret to getting the perfect glaze?

Patience. Baste frequently, and don’t skip the caramelization step at 425°F.

Perfect Glazed Christmas Ham with Brown Sugar and Pineapple

Name: Glazed Christmas Ham with Brown Sugar and Pineapple
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (7 to 9 pounds); 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple slices in juice, juice reserved; 1 cup packed brown sugar; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky twist); Maraschino cherries (optional)

Description

This Glazed Christmas Ham with Brown Sugar and Pineapple is a holiday showstopper. A sweet, tangy glaze made with brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and pineapple juice caramelizes perfectly over a tender, juicy ham. This recipe includes a twist: an optional sprinkle of smoked paprika in the glaze for a subtle smoky depth that balances the sweetness beautifully.

Equipment:

Ingredients

Units Scale

Ham:

1 fully cooked bone-in ham (7 to 9 pounds)

Glaze:

1 can (20 ounces) pineapple slices in juice, juice reserved
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky twist)

Garnish:

Maraschino cherries (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Ham:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Place the ham, flat side down, on a rack in a shallow roasting pan.
- Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, about 1/2 inch deep.
Decorate the Ham:
- Drain the pineapple slices, reserving the juice for the glaze.
- Arrange the pineapple slices over the scored ham, securing each slice with toothpicks.
- Optionally, place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple slice and secure with a toothpick.
Prepare the Glaze:
- In a medium bowl, mix the reserved pineapple juice, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and smoked paprika (if using) until well combined.
Bake the Ham:
- Pour half the glaze over the ham.
- Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Baste the ham with the pan juices every 30 minutes during this baking period.
Finish the Ham:
- Remove the foil and pour the remaining glaze over the ham.
- Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (218°C).
- Bake, uncovered, for an additional 15 to 30 minutes, basting every 10 minutes, until the glaze is caramelized and the internal temperature of the ham reaches 140°F (60°C).
Rest and Serve:
- Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes.
- Carefully remove the toothpicks before serving.
- Slice and serve with the caramelized pineapple slices and cherries.

Notes

Adding smoked paprika to the glaze is the unique twist in this recipe. It enhances the flavor profile with a hint of smokiness that balances the sweetness of the brown sugar and the tartness of the pineapple. This subtle addition makes the dish stand out while keeping it approachable and festive.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 8 ounces (including glaze and ham)
Calories: 380
Sugar: 25g
Sodium: 1,200mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 80mg