Easy Maple-Glazed Ham with Pineapple

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Quick Holiday Recipes

Easy Maple-Glazed Ham with Pineapple

342 Reviews

★★★★★ 4.5/5

Hello, holiday hosts! Chef ETHAN here with a show-stopping dish that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. This Easy Maple-Glazed Ham with Pineapple brings the perfect balance of sweet and savory to your table. The glaze, made with pure maple syrup and pineapple juice, adds a rich, caramelized flavor that pairs wonderfully with the smoky ham. It’s an easy recipe to prepare and a fantastic complement to turkey or other holiday staples.

Descriptions

This Easy Maple-Glazed Ham with Pineapple is a sweet-and-savory masterpiece, perfect for any festive occasion. The combination of juicy pineapple and rich maple syrup creates a mouthwatering glaze that enhances the smoky flavor of the ham. A quick and easy recipe for a crowd-pleasing holiday centerpiece!

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a roasting pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2

Place the ham in the pan, cut side down. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern.

Step 3

In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, brown sugar, pineapple juice, and Dijon mustard. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, then remove from heat.

Step 4

Brush half of the glaze over the ham, ensuring it coats all surfaces.

Step 5

Secure pineapple slices to the ham with toothpicks, and optionally place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple ring.

Step 6

Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake for 1 hour.

Step 7

Remove the foil, brush the ham with the remaining glaze, and bake uncovered for an additional 30-40 minutes, basting every 10 minutes, until the glaze is caramelized and the ham is heated through.

Step 8

Let the ham rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Pro Tips for Perfect Maple-Glazed Ham

Score the Fat: Scoring the fat helps the glaze penetrate the meat and creates a crispy, caramelized exterior.
Baste Frequently: Basting the ham with the maple glaze every 30 minutes ensures maximum flavor and a beautiful glaze.
Check the Internal Temperature: Make sure the ham reaches 140°F (60°C) to ensure it’s heated through and juicy.
Let it Rest: Allow the ham to rest after cooking to prevent the juices from running out when sliced.

FAQs

Can I use a boneless ham instead of a bone-in ham? Yes, you can use a boneless ham, but a bone-in ham will generally be juicier and more flavorful.
How do I store leftovers? Leftover ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze the leftover ham? Yes! Slice the leftover ham, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What side dishes go well with maple-glazed ham? Maple-glazed ham pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. It’s also great with classic sides like macaroni and cheese or cornbread.

Creative Variations

Add Spices: Try adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the glaze for a warm, spiced flavor.
Pineapple Variation: Instead of using pineapple rings, you can use pineapple chunks or even a pineapple-mango mixture for an exotic twist.
Maple-Bourbon Glaze: Add a splash of bourbon to the maple glaze for an extra layer of flavor. The alcohol will cook off, leaving behind a rich, smoky taste.

Advice for Gifting

A beautifully glazed ham makes for an impressive gift. Consider making a small ham for a neighbor or friend and include a jar of the maple glaze for a thoughtful homemade present!

Fun Ways to Serve

Ham and Pineapple Sliders: Use the leftover ham to make sliders with Hawaiian rolls and a bit of extra glaze for a tasty appetizer.
Maple-Glazed Ham Salad: Chop up the leftover ham and combine with greens, roasted vegetables, and a tangy dressing for a quick, delicious salad.
On a Charcuterie Board: Add slices of maple-glazed ham to a charcuterie board, paired with cheeses, crackers, and fresh fruit.

Nutritional Facts (Approximate)

Calories: 250
Learn more about calories: Calorie – Wikipedia
Protein: 20g
Learn more about protein: Protein (nutrient) – Wikipedia
Carbohydrates: 20g
Learn more about carbohydrates: Carbohydrate – Wikipedia
Fat: 10g
Learn more about dietary fat: Fat – Wikipedia
Fiber: 1g
Learn more about fiber: Dietary fiber – Wikipedia

Conclusion

This Easy Maple-Glazed Ham with Pineapple is the perfect combination of sweet and savory, making it an ideal centerpiece for any occasion. The juicy ham, caramelized with a rich maple glaze and topped with succulent pineapple, will have your guests coming back for more. Easy to prepare, full of flavor, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

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