If you’ve ever had the privilege of sitting down to a beautifully glazed ham at a family gathering, then you know the magic of a perfectly cooked centerpiece. Imagine a golden-brown ham, adorned with sweet pineapple rings and maraschino cherries, all glazed with a rich, tangy sauce that brings out the best in every bite. This Glazed Pineapple and Cherry Ham Recipe is the perfect dish for any special occasion, whether it’s a festive holiday, a celebratory dinner, or just a Sunday family meal.

The combination of brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves in the glaze creates a rich, sweet-and-salty flavor that pairs perfectly with the ham. The pineapple and cherries not only add a pop of color but also enhance the flavor with their juicy sweetness. If you’re ready to take your cooking skills to the next level and impress your loved ones, this recipe is the way to go.

In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about making the perfect Glazed Pineapple and Cherry Ham, from the ingredients to step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and more. Let’s dive in and create something truly special together! Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas

Ingredients for Glazed Pineapple and Cherry Ham
Step-by-Step Instructions
Tips for Perfect Glazed Pineapple and Cherry Ham
Nutritional Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion

Ingredients for Glazed Pineapple and Cherry Ham

Before you begin, it’s essential to have all the right ingredients on hand. The recipe itself is straightforward, but using the right amounts and ingredients will make sure your dish turns out beautifully every time. Here’s what you’ll need to gather for this Glazed Pineapple and Cherry Ham:

Ingredient	Amount
Brown Sugar	1 cup (packed)
Pineapple Juice	½ cup
Honey	½ cup
Dijon Mustard	1 tablespoon
Ground Cloves	½ tablespoon
Bone-In Ham	6-8 pounds
Pineapple Rings	1 can (20 ounces)
Maraschino Cherries	1 jar (10 ounces)

These ingredients will come together to create a harmonious blend of flavors that will complement the natural richness of the ham.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Glaze and Ham

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C). You want a steady, moderate temperature to ensure the ham cooks evenly.
Make the Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, pineapple juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves. Stir the mixture over medium heat for about 5 minutes, allowing the sugar to dissolve completely and the glaze to come to a simmer. You should notice the glaze thickening slightly as it heats up.
Place the Ham in the Roasting Pan: Once the glaze is ready, place your bone-in ham in a roasting pan. The pan should be large enough to accommodate the ham without crowding, allowing the heat to circulate evenly.
Pour Half of the Glaze: Pour half of the glaze over the ham, making sure it seeps into the slices, infusing the meat with flavor. This will create a base layer of sweetness and tang for the ham.

2. Bake the Ham

Cover and Bake: Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil. Bake it at 325°F for about 1.5 hours. During this time, the ham should reach an internal temperature of about 140°F. Use a meat thermometer to check, ensuring it’s fully cooked and safe to eat. This is when the ham will begin absorbing all the sweet, savory flavors of the glaze.
Remove the Ham and Increase Temperature: Once the ham reaches the correct temperature, remove it from the oven and increase the temperature to 425°F (220°C). The higher temperature will help caramelize the glaze and bring out its rich, bubbly texture.

3. Add Pineapple and Cherries

Arrange the Pineapple Rings: Take your pineapple rings from the can and arrange them on top of the ham. Use toothpicks to secure each ring so that it stays in place during baking. This not only adds a beautiful tropical look but also enhances the flavor of the ham.
Add the Maraschino Cherries: Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple ring. Again, secure with toothpicks. This step not only adds a touch of sweetness but also creates an eye-catching presentation that’s perfect for special occasions.
Drizzle Remaining Glaze: Drizzle the remaining glaze over the pineapple and cherries. This will help create a rich, caramelized finish when the ham bakes at the higher temperature.

4. Final Baking

Uncovered Baking: Return the ham to the oven and bake it uncovered for 15-20 minutes. You’ll want to watch it closely during this time as the glaze will bubble up and begin to caramelize. This is the moment where the flavors meld together and the ham reaches its ultimate deliciousness.
Rest the Ham: Once you’re happy with the caramelization, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Resting is essential as it allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and moist.

5. Carve and Serve

After the ham has rested, it’s time to carve. Slice the ham into thick, juicy pieces, ensuring each serving has a bit of pineapple and cherry for that delightful combination of flavors.
Serve it up hot and enjoy the compliments from your guests!

Tips for Perfect Glazed Pineapple and Cherry Ham

While the recipe is simple, a few tips can help ensure that your Glazed Pineapple and Cherry Ham turns out perfectly every time.

Adjust Cooking Time Based on Ham Size: If your ham is larger or smaller than the recommended 6-8 pounds, adjust the baking time accordingly. A good rule of thumb is to bake for 15 minutes per pound of ham. For instance, a 10-pound ham will take approximately 2.5 hours.
Flavor Variations: Want to add an extra layer of flavor to your glaze? Try incorporating a splash of orange juice for a citrusy twist or adding a pinch of cinnamon for warmth. These small changes can elevate the flavor profile and make your ham stand out.
Baste the Ham: To achieve an extra-moist, flavorful result, baste your ham with the glaze a few times during the initial baking process. This will ensure that the flavor soaks deep into the meat, rather than just sitting on top.
Check Internal Temperature: Make sure to monitor the internal temperature of your ham to ensure it’s cooked to perfection. The ideal temperature is 140°F (60°C), which will give you a tender and juicy result.
Rest the Ham: Don’t skip the resting time! Allowing the ham to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking ensures the juices stay locked in, giving you a more flavorful and tender dish.

Nutritional Information

This Glazed Pineapple and Cherry Ham recipe is designed to serve approximately 10 people. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional content per serving:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	400 kcal
Protein	22g
Carbohydrates	55g
Fat	10g
Sodium	700mg

This ham is a satisfying main course that provides a balanced mix of protein and carbs. However, if you’re watching your calorie intake or looking to make it a bit lighter, feel free to adjust the sugar content in the glaze or opt for a leaner cut of ham.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this Glazed Pineapple and Cherry Ham ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely make this ham ahead of time. In fact, the flavor often improves when it sits overnight. You can cook the ham and store it in the refrigerator, then reheat it in the oven with the pineapple and cherries just before serving.

2. Can I use a boneless ham for this recipe?

Absolutely! A boneless ham will work just as well. You’ll need to adjust the cooking time based on the size of the ham, but the steps for glazing and baking will be the same.

3. How do I store leftover glazed ham?

Leftover glazed ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you have a lot of leftovers, you can also freeze them for up to 3 months.

4. Can I substitute the maraschino cherries?

If you’re not a fan of maraschino cherries, you can use fresh cherries, dried cherries, or even cranberries as alternatives. Each option will provide a different flavor profile, so feel free to experiment!

5. How do I ensure the glaze is caramelized perfectly?

The key to perfect caramelization is baking the ham uncovered at a higher temperature (around 425°F) during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, but let it bubble and become golden brown.

Conclusion: A Showstopping Dish for Every Occasion

There’s no doubt that this Glazed Pineapple and Cherry Ham will become a go-to recipe for your holiday celebrations, family gatherings, or any occasion that deserves a special meal. The blend of sweet and savory flavors, coupled with the festive presentation, ensures that this dish will be the centerpiece of your meal. Whether it’s your first time cooking a ham or you’re an experienced home chef, this recipe is easy to follow and yields mouthwatering results.

Now that you know how to make this delightful ham, it’s time to get cooking and impress your guests with your culinary skills. Enjoy the compliments and the joy that comes with sharing a delicious meal with loved ones!