By blending honey, pineapple, and a dash of grainy mustard, this updated take on a holiday classic transforms an already impressive cut of meat into something truly memorable. With each slice, the sumptuous glaze seeps into the tender ham, creating a richly flavored crust that tastes as good as it looks. This dish isn’t just about presentation; it’s about bringing everyone together around the table, sharing laughter and savoring a meal that feels both comforting and extraordinary.
This method elevates a holiday staple by cutting down on cooking time and maximizing flavor. A pineapple, honey, and brown sugar blend seeps into every seam of the ham, resulting in a moist, savory-sweet finish. The pineapple slices not only add color and character but also help maintain moisture, ensuring each serving is juicy and satisfying. Serve this spectacular ham as the star of your festive spread, and watch as guests reach for seconds—each bite carries the warmth and tradition of a cherished holiday feast.
Ingredients For honey pineapple infused baked ham
- 7 lb ham butt portion (about 3.2 kg)
- 1 can pineapple slices, unsweetened (about 20 oz [about 600 g])
- 1/2 c honey (about 120 ml)
- 1/2 c light brown sugar (about 100 g)
- 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard, grainy type (about 15 ml)
How To Make honey pineapple infused baked ham
Test Kitchen Tips: If you’d like a fancier presentation, place cherries in the pineapple rings after cooking. Adjust the garlic or other flavors as desired to make it truly your own.
- Place the ham in a large, shallow roasting pan.
- With a sharp knife, score the top of the ham in a diamond pattern about 1/2 inch (about 1.5 centimeters) deep. If using a spiral ham, scoring is optional.
- In a saucepan, combine about 1/2 cup (about 120 ml) pineapple juice from the can with honey, brown sugar, and mustard. Whisk and simmer for a few minutes until well blended.
- Remove the glaze from heat and set aside.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (about 180°C). Bake the ham uncovered for about two hours until nicely browned on top.
- Adjust cooking time based on the ham’s size.
- Using a brush, generously coat the ham with the prepared glaze, making sure to work it into the scored cuts and along the sides.
- Arrange the pineapple slices over the top of the ham, pressing them gently so they adhere to the glazed surface.
- Continue baking for another 40-50 minutes or until the ham is richly browned. Let the ham rest about 20 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute. If your ham is not pre-sliced, consider using an electric knife for even, thin slices.
As you carve into this luscious ham, notice how the pineapple slices have retained moisture, ensuring each forkful remains tender and flavorful. The sweet-savory harmony created by honey, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard melds together in every bite, an invitation to savor both the comfort of tradition and the excitement of something fresh. Perfect for holidays or special gatherings, this dish turns an ordinary meal into a lasting memory. Enjoy the warm smiles, the lively chatter, and the satisfied sighs that follow when you serve this show-stopping centerpiece.
