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Perfect Easter Ham Recipe with Easy Pineapple Brown Sugar Glaze

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A simple and crowd-pleasing Easter ham glazed with a sweet and tangy pineapple brown sugar mixture that caramelizes to a sticky, golden crust.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Bone-in spiral-cut ham (8-10 pounds), pre-cooked
  • 1 cup packed dark brown sugar
  • 1 cup 100% pure pineapple juice
  • 20–25 whole cloves (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1/4 cup water (optional, to thin glaze)
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional, to brighten glaze)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
  2. Remove packaging and plastic disk from ham. Pat dry with paper towels.
  3. Score ham surface in a diamond pattern about 1/2 inch deep.
  4. Insert whole cloves into the center of each diamond, spacing evenly (optional).
  5. Place ham cut side down on a rack in a roasting pan.
  6. In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, pineapple juice, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, ginger, and honey. Simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves and glaze thickens slightly (5-7 minutes). Remove from heat.
  7. Brush glaze generously over ham surface.
  8. Bake uncovered for 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes (about 10 minutes per pound), basting every 15-20 minutes with more glaze. Thin glaze with water if it thickens too much or starts to burn.
  9. Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer; ham should reach 140°F (60°C).
  10. Remove ham from oven, tent loosely with foil, and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Use a pre-cooked spiral ham for best results. Score ham about 1/2 inch deep to allow glaze penetration without drying meat. Baste frequently to build a sticky caramelized crust. Keep oven at 325°F to prevent glaze burning. Let ham rest before slicing to lock in juices. Glaze can be prepared a day ahead and warmed before use. Optional additions include apple cider vinegar to brighten glaze or cloves for aroma. For a dairy-free and gluten-free meal, verify mustard and ham ingredients.

Nutrition

Keywords: Easter ham, pineapple glaze, brown sugar glaze, holiday ham, spiral ham, easy ham recipe, baked ham, sweet and savory ham

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