If there is one dish that truly captures the warmth and celebration of a family gathering, it is this stunning Pineapple Glazed Ham Roast. Tender on the inside, sweet and caramelized on the outside, and beautifully surrounded by golden pineapple rings soaked in glaze… this dish is the definition of festive comfort food. Whether it's for a holiday dinner, a weekend gathering, or a special occasion, this ham roast is guaranteed to steal the show.

Let’s create this masterpiece step by step.

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⭐ Ingredients

For the Ham Roast

• 1 whole smoked or cooked ham (2–3 kg)

• Whole cloves (optional for extra aroma)

• Pineapple rings (fresh or canned)

• 2 tbsp butter

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pineapple Glaze

• 1 cup pineapple juice

• ½ cup brown sugar

• ¼ cup honey

• 3 tbsp soy sauce

• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 2 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp ginger powder

• ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)

For Garnish

• Pineapple rings from the baking pan

• Fresh herbs (parsley or thyme)

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👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

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1. Prepare the Ham

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Place your ham on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a crisscross pattern. This helps the glaze penetrate deeper and creates that iconic caramelized crust. If you enjoy a hint of warm spice, stud some of the diamond-shaped cuts with whole cloves.

Place the ham onto a roasting pan or a deep baking tray. Arrange pineapple rings around and under the ham. The juices from the pineapple will flavor the meat as it cooks.

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2. Make the Pineapple Glaze

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine:

• Pineapple juice

• Brown sugar

• Honey

• Soy sauce

• Apple cider vinegar

• Dijon mustard

• Garlic powder

• Ginger powder

• Cinnamon (if using)

Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 7–10 minutes until the glaze thickens into a syrupy consistency. The smell alone will fill your kitchen with sweetness and warmth.

Remove from heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter. This gives the glaze a glossy finish.

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3. Glaze and Bake the Ham

Brush a generous amount of glaze all over the ham, making sure it enters the scored cuts. Pour a little around the ham so it cooks in the sauce.

Bake the ham uncovered for 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on the size. Every 15–20 minutes, pull the ham out and brush on more glaze. This layering is what creates that irresistible sticky shine.

As the glaze caramelizes, the edges of the pineapple will turn golden, and the ham will develop a deep, beautiful color — like the one in your photo.

If the ham darkens too fast, cover loosely with foil.

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4. Final Caramelization

For an extra sticky finish, turn your oven to broil/grill for the last 3–5 minutes. Keep a close eye — it caramelizes very quickly.

Remove from the oven and allow the ham to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This keeps the meat juicy and tender.

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5. Serve and Garnish

Transfer the ham to a serving dish. Arrange the caramelized pineapple slices around it, spooning extra glaze from the pan over the top.

Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for color and aroma.

Slice the ham into thick pieces, making sure every serving gets some pineapple and glaze.

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🌟 Tips for the Best Pineapple Ham

• Use canned pineapple if you want extra sweetness — the syrup caramelizes beautifully.

• Don’t skip the scoring — it allows deeper flavor.

• The more glaze you brush, the better — keep layering during baking.

• Leftovers are amazing in sandwiches, wraps, salads, fried rice, or omelets.

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✨ Final Thought

This Pineapple Glazed Ham Roast is more than just a main course — it’s a centerpiece that brings warmth, sweetness, and celebration to any table. The juicy ham pairs perfectly with the bright acidity of pineapple and the deep caramel notes of the glaze. Every slice is flavorful, tender, and glazed to perfection. Prepare it once, and it may become your signature showstopper dish for years to come.

Bon appétit! 🍍🍽️✨