Imagine the sweet aroma of Honey-Cinnamon Ham with Pineapple wafting through your kitchen, making your taste buds tingle in anticipation. The savory glaze marries perfectly with the juicy ham and pineapple, creating a mouthwatering symphony of flavors that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Every holiday gathering or family dinner deserves this showstopper. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or simply a Sunday feast, I promise you’ll be stealing the show, and maybe even some hearts, with this delightful dish.
Why You'll Love This Honey-Cinnamon Ham with Pineapple
- This incredible Honey-Cinnamon Ham with Pineapple transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly
I remember the first time I made this dish; my family’s eyes lit up like kids in a candy store when they took their first bite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Bone-in Ham: A good quality ham is essential; look for a well-marbled cut that will stay juicy.
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Pineapple Rings: Fresh or canned, they add sweetness and moisture; just make sure to drain them properly if using canned.
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Honey: Choose raw honey for a richer flavor that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
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Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth; don’t skimp on it unless you want a bland experience.
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Brown Sugar: Use light brown sugar to enhance the caramelization and provide depth to the glaze.
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Dijon Mustard: Just a hint adds tanginess that cuts through the sweetness perfectly.
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Cloves (optional): Whole cloves can give your ham an aromatic kick; just remember not to overdo it!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Honey-Cinnamon Ham with Pineapple
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This ensures an even cooking temperature for your ham, leading to tender results.
Prepare the Glaze: In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and ground cinnamon until smooth and sticky. The mixture should have a glossy sheen that beckons you closer.
Score the Ham: Use a sharp knife to score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This allows the glaze to seep in and caramelize beautifully during baking.
Add Pineapple Rings: Arrange pineapple rings on top of the scored ham and secure them with toothpicks if needed. As they roast, their juices will mingle with the glaze creating irresistible flavors.
Baste Generously: Pour half of your prepared glaze over the ham before placing it in the oven. Remember to baste every 30 minutes for maximum flavor infusion!
Bake Until Glazed Perfection: Bake for about 1 hour and 30 minutes or until heated through (about 140°F/60°C internal temperature). Once finished, let it rest before slicing – patience is key here!
Enjoy this delightful Honey-Cinnamon Ham with Pineapple at your next family gathering or celebration! You’ll find yourself smiling as you watch everyone go back for seconds (or thirds).
You Must Know About Honey-Cinnamon Ham with Pineapple
- This showstopping Honey-Cinnamon Ham with Pineapple delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). While that’s heating up, whisk together honey and cinnamon to create a glaze. Place the ham in a roasting pan, score the surface, and brush on the glaze before baking. This step ensures the flavors penetrate deep into the meat while creating a caramelized exterior. Keep basting every 20 minutes with the remaining glaze for an irresistible finish.
Add Your Touch
Don’t be shy about customizing your Honey-Cinnamon Ham with Pineapple! Consider adding cloves or even a splash of bourbon to your glaze for extra depth. Sliced oranges or cherries can also lend a sweet twist if you’re feeling adventurous. And if you prefer less sweetness, simply reduce the honey or substitute with maple syrup for a unique flavor profile that’ll still wow your guests.
Storing & Reheating
After cooking, allow your ham to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to five days this way. When reheating, slice individual portions and warm them gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through. Avoid reheating it too quickly to prevent drying out; nobody wants a tough piece of ham!
Chef's Helpful Tips for Honey-Cinnamon Ham with Pineapple
- This professional-quality Honey-Cinnamon Ham with Pineapple relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth
- Tip let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly
Cooking ham doesn’t have to be daunting; just remember that patience is key when it comes to achieving that perfect glaze.
FAQ
What is the best type of ham to use for Honey-Cinnamon Ham with Pineapple?
The best type of ham for this recipe is a bone-in, fully cooked ham because it adds flavor and moisture during baking. Look for one labeled “spiral-cut” as it makes slicing easier post-cooking while allowing more glaze to seep into each slice.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple will add a lovely brightness and texture compared to canned options. Just ensure they are sliced evenly so they caramelize nicely alongside your glazed ham.
How long should I bake my ham?
Generally, bake your ham for about 10-15 minutes per pound at 325°F (165°C), basting every 20 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). This time may vary based on thickness, so always check with a meat thermometer.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare everything except baking a day ahead – coat your ham and store it covered in the fridge overnight. When ready, simply pop it into the oven for that freshly baked taste without all the fuss on serving day.
Conclusion for Honey-Cinnamon Ham with Pineapple
In summary, making Honey-Cinnamon Ham with Pineapple is straightforward yet impressive enough for any gathering. With simple tips like proper glazing techniques and thoughtful ingredient choices, you’ll elevate your dish effortlessly. Remember to enjoy every moment—cooking should be fun! Treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful recipe that will surely become a cherished favorite at every table gathering.
Honey-Cinnamon Ham with Pineapple
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the sweet and savory delight of Honey-Cinnamon Ham with Pineapple, a showstopper for any gathering. This dish features a juicy, bone-in ham glazed with a luscious mix of honey, cinnamon, and brown sugar, topped with vibrant pineapple rings. Each bite offers a perfect balance of flavors that will elevate your holiday celebrations or family dinners. Impress your guests and create lasting memories with this deliciously easy recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 bone-in ham (5–7 lbs)
- 1 cup pineapple rings (fresh or canned, drained)
- 3/4 cup raw honey
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp whole cloves (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and ground cinnamon until smooth.
- Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern to allow the glaze to seep in.
- Arrange pineapple rings on top and secure them with toothpicks if needed.
- Pour half the glaze over the ham and place it in a roasting pan.
- Bake for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, basting every 30 minutes with remaining glaze until internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
- Allow to rest before slicing and serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 3 oz)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For an added flavor twist, consider mixing in cloves or a splash of bourbon into your glaze. Fresh pineapple can bring additional brightness compared to canned varieties. To store leftovers, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to five days.
