Pineapple Brown Sugar Honey Ham
Pineapple Brown Sugar Honey Ham is a medium American recipe that serves 8. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by Cooking with Kiana on YouTube.
Prep: 3 hrs 30 min | Cook: 2 hrs 5 min | Total: 5 hrs 50 min
Cost: $31.26 total, $3.91 per serving
Ingredients
- 8 lb Pre‑baked Bone‑in Ham (Fully cooked, skin removed)
- 1 Tbsp Yellow Mustard (Regular yellow mustard)
- 1 cup Brown Sugar (for glaze) (Packed)
- 1 cup Brown Sugar (for coating) (Packed)
- 1.5 tsp Allspice (Ground)
- 1 tsp Ground Cloves (Ground)
- 1 tsp Cinnamon (Ground)
- 0.25 tsp Ground Ginger (Ground)
- 1 tsp Black Pepper (Freshly ground)
- 1 Tbsp Lemon Juice (Freshly squeezed)
- 0.75 cup Orange Juice (100% juice, no pulp)
- 0.75 cup Pineapple Juice (Canned or bottled)
- 0.25 cup Cherry Juice (Canned cherry juice)
- 0.5 cup Honey (Raw or light)
- 0.5 stick Unsalted Butter (Cut into cubes)
- 1 Tbsp Cornstarch (Optional, for thicker glaze)
- 1 cup Pineapple Slices (Fresh or canned, cut into rings)
- 0.5 cup Maraschino Cherries (Pitted)
Instructions
Score the ham
Place the ham on a cutting board and, using a sharp knife, cut shallow slits about 1 inch deep in a diamond pattern across the surface, being careful not to cut through the meat.
Time: PT5M
Apply mustard and brown‑sugar coating
Brush the entire surface with 1 Tbsp yellow mustard, then sprinkle the 1 cup brown sugar mixed with 0.5 tsp allspice, 0.5 tsp ground cloves, and 1 tsp black pepper. Pat the mixture onto the ham until fully coated.
Time: PT10M
Marinate in the refrigerator
Cover the coated ham loosely with aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 3 hours (or up to overnight) to let the flavors penetrate.
Time: PT3H
Prepare pineapple and cherry garnish
Slice fresh pineapple into rings (about 1 cup) and thread a few maraschino cherries onto each ring with toothpicks. Set aside.
Time: PT5M
Make the pineapple‑brown‑sugar honey glaze
In a small saucepan melt 0.5 stick butter over medium heat. Stir in 1 cup brown sugar until dissolved. If you prefer a thicker glaze, whisk in 1 Tbsp cornstarch. Add 0.5 cup honey, 1 tsp cinnamon, 0.25 tsp ginger, 0.5 tsp allspice, 0.5 tsp ground cloves, then pour in 0.75 cup orange juice, 0.75 cup pineapple juice, 0.25 cup cherry juice, and finally 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly (about 5‑7 minutes).
Time: PT10M
Temperature: Medium heat
Preheat oven and arrange ham
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chilled ham in a roasting pan, skin side up. Arrange the pineapple‑cherry rings on top, securing with toothpicks. Pour the prepared glaze into the bottom of the pan.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 350°F
Bake and baste the ham
Bake the ham for 2 hours, basting with the pan juices every 20 minutes using a basting brush. Remove the foil after the first hour to allow caramelization.
Time: PT2H5M
Temperature: 350°F
Rest and serve
Remove the ham from the oven, tent loosely with foil and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with extra glaze on the side.
Time: PT10M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 350
- Protein
- 20g
- Carbohydrates
- 30g
- Fat
- 15g
- Fiber
- 0g
Dietary info: Contains dairy, Contains honey, Gluten‑Free, Nut‑Free
Allergens: Dairy (butter), Honey (bee product)
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Pre‑baked Bone‑in Ham: Pre‑cooked smoked ham, Fully cooked turkey leg
- Instead of Yellow Mustard: Dijon mustard, Honey mustard
- Instead of Brown Sugar (for glaze): Dark brown sugar, Turbinado sugar
- Instead of Brown Sugar (for coating): Dark brown sugar, Turbinado sugar
- Instead of Allspice: Ground nutmeg, Cinnamon
- Instead of Ground Cloves: Ground nutmeg, Allspice
- Instead of Cinnamon: Ground nutmeg, Allspice
- Instead of Ground Ginger: Fresh grated ginger, Ground allspice
- Instead of Black Pepper: White pepper
- Instead of Lemon Juice: Lime juice, Apple cider vinegar (1 tsp)
- Instead of Orange Juice: Mandarin juice, Apple juice
- Instead of Pineapple Juice: Mango juice, Apple juice
- Instead of Cherry Juice: Cranberry juice, Pomegranate juice
- Instead of Honey: Maple syrup, Agave nectar
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: Margarine, Olive oil (for glaze)
- Instead of Cornstarch: All‑purpose flour (1 tbsp)
- Instead of Pineapple Slices: Fresh mango slices, Canned peach slices
- Instead of Maraschino Cherries: Dried cranberries (re‑hydrated), Fresh cherries
Equipment Needed
- Sharp Knife
- Cutting Board
- Toothpicks
- Small Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Roasting Pan
- Aluminum Foil
- Small Saucepan
- Basting Brush
- Oven
- Tongs
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Score the ham to allow glaze penetration
- Marinate the coated ham for at least 3 hours in the refrigerator
- Baste the ham every 20 minutes during baking to keep it moist
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use a meat thermometer; the ham is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
- For extra depth, add a splash of bourbon or dark rum to the glaze.
Troubleshooting
Glaze is too runny after simmering
Add an extra ½‑1 tsp cornstarch mixed with a little cold water and simmer until thickened.
Ham skin is too dark before the end of cooking
Cover loosely with foil for the remaining time to prevent burning.
Fruit toppings fall off during baking
Secure each pineapple ring and cherry with a toothpick or small skewer.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftover ham in an airtight container for 3‑4 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
Room temperature: Do not store at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Coat and refrigerate the ham up to 24 hours before baking
- Glaze can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated; reheat gently before using
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Pineapple Brown Sugar Honey Ham in American holiday cuisine?
Pineapple Brown Sugar Honey Ham has become a popular centerpiece for American Thanksgiving and Christmas tables, blending sweet tropical flavors with traditional holiday ham. The glaze reflects the American tradition of using fruit and sugar to create caramelized, festive dishes that celebrate abundance. Over the decades, home cooks have embraced this sweet‑savory combination as a symbol of holiday indulgence.
What are the traditional regional variations of Pineapple Brown Sugar Honey Ham in the United States?
In the Southern United States, cooks often add bourbon or molasses to the glaze for a deeper, smoky sweetness, while in the Pacific Northwest, fresh local berries like huckleberries may replace cherries. Some Midwestern families incorporate a mustard‑brown sugar rub before glazing, echoing the region’s love of tangy meat preparations. These variations still honor the core concept of a sweet, fruit‑enhanced ham.
How is Pineapple Brown Sugar Honey Ham traditionally served in American Thanksgiving celebrations?
At a traditional American Thanksgiving, Pineapple Brown Sugar Honey Ham is sliced thickly and arranged on a serving platter alongside classic sides such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce. The glaze is often brushed again just before serving to keep the surface glossy and caramelized. It is typically presented as a secondary protein to complement the roasted turkey.
What occasions or celebrations is Pineapple Brown Sugar Honey Ham traditionally associated with in American culture?
Pineapple Brown Sugar Honey Ham is commonly featured at Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s gatherings, and other holiday feasts in American culture. It also appears at birthday parties, potlucks, and family reunions where a sweet, crowd‑pleasing main dish is desired. The dish’s festive glaze makes it a popular choice for any celebration that calls for a show‑stopping centerpiece.
What makes Pineapple Brown Sugar Honey Ham special or unique in American cuisine?
The combination of pineapple, brown sugar, honey, and orange creates a bright, caramelized glaze that sets this ham apart from more traditional plain glazes. The use of both mustard and allspice adds a subtle tang and warm spice depth, reflecting the American love for layered flavors. Its balance of sweet, savory, and citrus notes makes it a distinctive holiday favorite.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for Pineapple Brown Sugar Honey Ham versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic ingredients include a pre‑baked bone‑in ham, yellow mustard, brown sugar (for both coating and glaze), honey, orange juice, pineapple chunks, and maraschino cherries. Acceptable substitutes are Dijon mustard for a sharper bite, maple syrup instead of honey, or fresh mango in place of pineapple for a different tropical twist. The core of ham, brown sugar, and a citrus element should remain to preserve the dish’s character.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Pineapple Brown Sugar Honey Ham from the Cooking with Kiana recipe?
A frequent mistake is scoring the ham too shallow, which prevents the glaze from penetrating the meat. Over‑basting can also lead to burnt sugars, so brush the glaze every 15‑20 minutes instead of continuously. Finally, cooking the ham at too high a temperature can dry it out; the recipe’s 350°F setting ensures even caramelization without sacrificing juiciness.
How do I know when Pineapple Brown Sugar Honey Ham is done cooking and reaches the proper internal temperature?
Insert an instant‑read thermometer into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone; it should read 140°F (60°C) for a pre‑cooked ham. The glaze should be glossy and slightly caramelized, and the edges of the pineapple and cherries will be lightly browned. Once these signs appear, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Can I make Pineapple Brown Sugar Honey Ham ahead of time and how should I store it before serving?
Yes, you can bake the ham up to 24 hours in advance. After it cools, wrap it tightly in foil and refrigerate; reheat gently at 300°F covered with foil for about 20‑30 minutes, then brush with fresh glaze and finish uncovered for 5 minutes to re‑caramelize. This method preserves moisture while restoring the glossy finish.
What does the YouTube channel Cooking with Kiana specialize in, and how does its cooking style influence the Pineapple Brown Sugar Honey Ham recipe?
The YouTube channel Cooking with Kiana specializes in approachable American comfort food with a focus on holiday and celebration dishes. Kiana’s style emphasizes clear step‑by‑step instructions, visual cues for glaze consistency, and practical tips for home cooks, which are evident in the detailed scoring, mustard coating, and basting schedule for the Pineapple Brown Sugar Honey Ham. Her approachable presentation makes a potentially elaborate ham feel manageable for everyday cooks.
Last updated: August 20, 2026
