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Perfect Brown Sugar Dijon Glazed Easter Ham with Pineapple Rings

brown sugar dijon glazed ham - featured image

A simple yet festive ham recipe featuring a sweet and tangy brown sugar Dijon glaze with pineapple rings, perfect for Easter or any holiday gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Bone-in fully cooked ham (8 to 10 pounds)
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar (dark brown sugar preferred)
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 can pineapple rings (about 8 rings)
  • Optional: 8 maraschino cherries for garnish
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 cup water

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325Β°F (163Β°C).
  2. Remove any packaging and place the ham, cut side down, on the roasting rack in your pan. Score the surface in a diamond pattern about 1/8 inch deep.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey, ground cloves, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
  4. Using a basting brush, coat the ham evenly with about half the glaze. Reserve the rest for later basting.
  5. Place the pineapple rings over the ham, pressing gently so they stick. Optionally, place a maraschino cherry in the center of each ring, securing with toothpicks if needed.
  6. Cover loosely with foil to tent the ham and keep moisture in.
  7. Bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours (approximately 15-18 minutes per pound), basting every 20 minutes with the remaining glaze and pan juices. Watch the pineapple to prevent burning.
  8. Check internal temperature aiming for 140Β°F (60Β°C) using a meat thermometer.
  9. Remove foil and broil the ham for 3-5 minutes to caramelize the glaze, watching closely to avoid burning.
  10. Tent with foil again and let rest for 15 minutes before carving.

Notes

Score the ham surface to help glaze soak in. Baste frequently to keep ham juicy and encourage caramelization. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Rest ham for 15 minutes before slicing. If glaze thickens too much during baking, add a few tablespoons of water to the pan. For gluten-free, ensure mustard is gluten-free. Optional maraschino cherries add garnish. Slow cooker method possible: cook on low 4-5 hours, then broil briefly.

Nutrition

Keywords: ham, Easter ham, brown sugar glaze, Dijon mustard, pineapple rings, holiday ham, glazed ham, easy ham recipe