Baked Ham with Pineapple (Classic Baked Ham with Pineapple Christmas Recipe)

Golden, sweet, and sticky, this baked ham with pineapple fills the kitchen with a cozy holiday aroma. The tender slices glisten with caramelized glaze, perfect for a festive Christmas dinner or a family feast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked ham with pineapple recipe brings nostalgic comfort, simple prep, and that classic sweet-and-savory flavor that makes every holiday dinner memorable. You only need a few pantry staples to create a showstopping centerpiece that’s tender, juicy, and beautifully glazed. The sweet and tangy pineapple pairs perfectly with savory ham, creating that signature holiday balance everyone loves. It’s also a make-ahead-friendly recipe, meaning less time in the kitchen and more moments around the table. Whether you’re hosting Christmas dinner or bringing a dish to share, this baked ham guarantees compliments and easy leftovers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Ham

Choose a 10–12 lb fully cooked bone-in spiral-cut ham. This type reheats beautifully and slices easily for serving. Bone-in hams stay moist during baking and offer richer flavor. Let it sit at room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking. Avoid using the glaze packet that often comes with the ham—it’s usually too salty and lacks depth.

For the Glaze

You’ll need 20 oz canned pineapple slices (save the juice), ½ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup honey, ½ tsp each of cinnamon and cloves, plus 1 tbsp cornstarch and 1 tbsp water to thicken the glaze. These create a glossy, fragrant sauce that clings to the ham.
Use dark brown sugar for a deeper caramel note, or light brown for a milder sweetness. If you prefer, swap honey for maple syrup for a cozy twist. Optional maraschino cherries add a pop of color and sweetness—classic for a Christmas presentation.

Best Type of Ham for Baking

For the best flavor and texture, pick a fully cooked, bone-in spiral ham. It’s already pre-sliced, which allows the glaze to seep between layers, making each bite flavorful. Boneless hams are convenient but can dry out more easily. When shopping, check the label to confirm it’s “fully cooked” or “ready to serve.” Plan for about ½ pound per person, or more if you want leftovers. Spiral hams are ideal for family gatherings because they’re easy to carve and serve beautifully on a platter surrounded by pineapple rings.

How to Make the Perfect Baked Ham with Pineapple

Step 1 – Prepare the Ham

Remove the ham from the fridge and let it rest at room temperature for about an hour. This helps it bake evenly. Preheat your oven to 325°F. Line a roasting pan with foil to catch the glaze and make cleanup easier.

Step 2 – Make the Glaze

In a medium saucepan, combine pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey, cinnamon, and cloves. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat, stirring often until the sugar dissolves. Mix the cornstarch with water to form a slurry, then whisk it into the glaze. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly—it should coat a spoon.

Step 3 – Assemble

Place the ham cut-side down in your prepared roasting pan. Brush a generous layer of glaze over the surface, working it into the spiral cuts. Arrange pineapple slices across the ham and secure each one with a toothpick. If using cherries, place one in the center of each pineapple ring for a festive look. Tent the ham loosely with foil to prevent burning.

Step 4 – Bake

Bake the ham for 1½ hours, brushing with glaze halfway through. Then remove the foil, baste again, and bake uncovered for 30 more minutes until golden and caramelized. The edges should sizzle slightly, creating that irresistible sticky crust.

Step 5 – Rest and Serve

Once your baked ham with pineapple is golden and caramelized, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15–20 minutes before slicing.This allows the juices to redistribute. Transfer to a serving platter, spoon some glaze on top, and garnish with warm pineapple rings. Pair it with sides like cheesy scalloped potatoes Christmas dish or honey glazed carrots and green beans for a balanced holiday plate.

How Long to Bake a Ham

For a pre-cooked, spiral-sliced ham, bake at 325°F for about 10 minutes per pound. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 140°F when reheated. Overbaking can dry the meat, so tenting with foil helps retain moisture. Use this quick reference guide:

Ham Type	Weight	Temperature	Time
Spiral-cut (bone-in)	10–12 lb	325°F	2–2.5 hrs
Boneless (fully cooked)	6–8 lb	325°F	1.5–2 hrs
Fresh (uncooked)	12–14 lb	325°F	4–5 hrs (to 160°F)

Expert Tips and Recipe Notes

Skip the store-bought glaze packet—it’s too sugary and one-dimensional. The homemade pineapple glaze tastes brighter and richer. Don’t score a spiral ham since the slices already allow flavor to seep through. Cornstarch works better than flour for thickening without lumps. For decoration, insert whole cloves or arrange cherries for a vintage touch. Always let your ham reach room temperature before baking for even heat distribution. You can also customize the glaze with a splash of orange juice or Dijon mustard for extra depth. For a stunning holiday spread, serve it beside classic Christmas prime rib holiday recipe or thanksgiving turkey recipe juicy crispy.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover ham in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze it tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. When reheating, keep the ham covered with foil and add a bit of broth or leftover glaze to prevent drying. Warm in a 300°F oven until heated through, or microwave small portions in short intervals, covered with a damp paper towel. Always reheat gently so the glaze stays sticky, not burnt. Leftovers make amazing sandwiches, breakfast scrambles, or even casseroles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Recipes to Try

• cheesy scalloped potatoes Christmas dish
• garlic mashed potatoes recipe thanksgiving
• candied yams recipe sweet thanksgiving
• honey glazed carrots and green beans
• classic Christmas prime rib holiday recipe
• thanksgiving turkey recipe juicy crispy

Conclusion

This baked ham with pineapple brings all the warmth, sweetness, and nostalgia of Christmas to your table. With its golden glaze and fruity aroma, this easy baked ham with pineapple recipe is perfect for every festive celebration or family feast.Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a timeless holiday tradition that everyone will remember. For more festive ideas and visual inspiration, check out my boards on Pinterest.

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