Pineapple Honey-Glazed Ham Recipe

If you're looking for a centerpiece that delivers big flavor with classic holiday vibes, this pineapple honey-glazed ham checks every box. Juicy, smoky ham is studded with cloves (optional), then topped with pineapple rings, maraschino cherries, and a luscious glaze made with brown sugar, honey, and pineapple juice.

It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious perfect for Easter, Christmas, or any festive gathering.

Ingredients

• 1 bone-in fully-cooked smoked ham (butt or shank half), 9 to 10 pounds

• 1 tablespoon whole cloves (optional)

• 2 cans (20 ounces each) sliced pineapple, juice reserved

• 20 maraschino cherries

• 2 cups honey

• 2 cups light brown sugar

Directions

1. Prep the ham
   Let the ham sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 325°F. Trim off the skin, if present, and score the fat in a diagonal crosshatch pattern with a sharp knife (don’t cut into the meat). If using cloves, insert them at the intersections of the cuts.

2. Decorate with fruit
   Drain the pineapple, reserving the juice. Arrange the pineapple slices over the ham and secure with toothpicks. Add a cherry to the center of each ring and secure with a toothpick.

3. Start roasting
   Place the ham flat-side down on a rack in a roasting pan. Pour ¼ inch of water into the bottom of the pan and tent the ham loosely with foil. Roast for about 2½ hours, or 15 minutes per pound, until an internal thermometer reads 130°F in the thickest part of the ham (without touching bone).

4. Make the glaze
   While the ham roasts, combine the honey, brown sugar, and reserved pineapple juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reduces to about 3 cups and becomes thick and syrupy (about 25–30 minutes). Set aside.

5. Glaze and finish
   Increase oven temperature to 425°F. Uncover the ham and brush it with 1/3 of the glaze. Add more water to the pan if needed. Bake for 15 minutes, then repeat with another 1/3 of the glaze, baking another 15 minutes. Apply the final 1/3 of the glaze and roast until golden and caramelized, about 15 minutes more.

6. Rest and serve
   Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Serving Tips
Pair this ham with roasted vegetables, scalloped potatoes, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. Leftovers make amazing sandwiches or breakfast hash.

Nutritional Note
While indulgent, this recipe serves a crowd and brings balance when paired with nutrient-rich sides like roasted Brussels sprouts or citrus-dressed greens.

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