Now it’s time to get that lovely glaze onto the ham! Place the ham cut-side down in a roasting pan and brush it generously with your brown sugar mixture. Then, arrange those fragrant pineapple slices around and on top of the ham, securing them in place with whole cloves if desired. Cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the glaze from burning. Bake in the preheated oven for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until heated through—an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) is perfect.
Every 30 minutes, I like to baste the ham with the juices that collect in the bottom of the pan. This step is crucial for keeping the meat moist and maximizing flavor. The smell of sweet pineapple slowly caramelizing with the ham is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Once your ham is beautifully glazed and heated through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. The resting gives the juices a chance to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy.
Pro Tips for Best Results
I tested this recipe three ways—using different types of ham like spiral-cut, butt, and shoulder cuts—and they all turned out delicious. However, I found that a bone-in ham gives the most flavor and moisture. The bone adds depth to the entire dish, making it a family favorite!
Don’t skip the basting step every 30 minutes! I learned the hard way that a little extra love during cooking goes a long way. The more you baste, the more intense and flavorful your glaze will become, and it also helps to keep the ham tender.
If you have a bit of extra time, I recommend letting the ham sit with the glaze on for about an hour before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a more robust taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One mistake I made the first time I prepared this dish was not checking the internal temperature of the ham! It’s crucial to avoid overcooking or undercooking. Always use a cooking thermometer for an accurate reading and ensure it reaches 140°F (60°C) for optimal results.
Another pitfall I encountered was not securing the pineapple slices well. They can slip off during cooking if not properly placed, causing you to miss out on those sweet bites of flavor as you serve. A sprinkle of the brown sugar mixture over the top can also help keep them in place!
If you’re using a roasting pan that isn’t deep enough, be cautious about how you cover it. The juices can bubble over and create a mess, which I unfortunately learned the hard way. Always check that your pan has enough depth to catch those delicious drippings while allowing the ham room to roast beautifully. (See the next page below to continue…)