Perfect Honey Glazed Spiral Ham Recipe with Pineapple for Easy Holiday Meals

Let me tell you, the scent of honey and warm pineapple wafting through the kitchen as this perfect honey glazed spiral ham bakes is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. The sticky-sweet aroma curls into every corner, promising a rich, tender bite that’s both juicy and flavorful. The first time I baked this ham, I was instantly hooked—there’s something about that golden glaze catching the light, the caramelized edges, and the bursts of pineapple sweetness that create the kind of moment where you pause, take a deep breath, and just smile because you know you’re onto something truly special.

Years ago, when I was knee-high to a grasshopper, holiday meals always meant a big ham on the table, but none quite like this one. I stumbled on this recipe during a rainy weekend quest to recreate a memorable dish from a family friend’s gathering. Honestly, I wish I’d found it sooner. My family couldn’t stop sneaking slices off the cooling platter (and I can’t really blame them). It’s dangerously easy but delivers pure, nostalgic comfort that brightens up any holiday or special occasion.

You know what? This honey glazed spiral ham with pineapple is perfect for potlucks, festive dinners, or just a sweet treat for your loved ones. After testing this recipe multiple times in the name of research, of course, it’s become a staple for family gatherings, gifting, and even last-minute celebrations. If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug and tastes like a celebration, you’re going to want to bookmark this one.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This perfect honey glazed spiral ham delivers on every level—trust me, it’s not your average ham recipe.

• Quick & Easy: Comes together in under 90 minutes, perfect for busy holiday afternoons or last-minute feasts.
• Simple Ingredients: No fancy grocery trips needed; you likely already have everything in your kitchen pantry.
• Perfect for Every Occasion: Great for holiday dinners, family reunions, or even a cozy Sunday supper.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Always gets rave reviews from kids and adults alike—there’s just something about that honey-pineapple combo that hits all the right notes.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The texture is tender and juicy, the glaze is sticky-sweet with just the right tang from pineapple, creating next-level comfort food.

What sets this recipe apart? It’s the perfect balance of sweetness and savory, with a technique that lets the flavors soak through without drying the ham out. The spiral cut means every slice is beautifully tender and easy to serve. I like to use a slow brush-on of the honey glaze during baking which caramelizes to a shiny, mouthwatering crust. Plus, the pineapple rings aren’t just decoration—they infuse the ham with a bright, tropical note that complements the smoky meat perfectly.

This recipe isn’t just good—it’s the kind that makes you close your eyes after the first bite. It takes classic comfort food and makes it effortless, suitable for impressing guests without the stress or turning a simple meal into something memorable.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Most of these are pantry staples or easy to find, with plenty of room for substitutions if needed.

• Spiral Ham: 8 to 10-pound pre-cooked spiral ham (bone-in recommended for best flavor)
• Honey: ½ cup (raw or wildflower honey preferred for rich flavor)
• Brown Sugar: ½ cup (packed, adds depth and caramelization)
• Mustard: 2 tablespoons (Dijon or yellow mustard works well to balance sweetness)
• Pineapple Rings: 1 can (about 8 rings, in juice, not syrup for less sweetness)
• Maraschino Cherries: 8-10 (optional, for garnish and color pop)
• Ground Cloves: 1 teaspoon (adds warm, subtle spice)
• Apple Cider Vinegar: 1 tablespoon (brightens the glaze)
• Water or Pineapple Juice: ½ cup (to keep the ham moist during baking)

Ingredient tips: For the ham, I recommend brands like Smithfield or HoneyBaked for consistent quality. Look for a spiral-cut ham that’s not too salty; less processed if possible. If you want a gluten-free version, double-check the ham label for any additives containing gluten.

Substitution ideas: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a different sweetness profile. If you want a lower sugar glaze, reduce brown sugar to ¼ cup and swap pineapple rings with fresh grilled pineapple slices for a smoky touch. For a dairy-free and paleo-friendly glaze, all ingredients here work great as is!

Equipment Needed

• Roasting Pan: A large, sturdy pan with a rack to hold the ham above the juices.
• Basting Brush: Essential for applying the glaze evenly without messing up the spiral slices.
• Meat Thermometer: Helpful to check the ham’s internal temperature to prevent overcooking.
• Aluminum Foil: For tenting the ham to keep it moist during baking.
• Sharp Knife: Useful for trimming if needed and serving.

If you don’t have a roasting rack, crumple up some foil to lift the ham off the pan bottom—this helps with even cooking. For basting brushes, silicone ones clean easily and don’t shed bristles. I’ve tried disposable brushes but honestly, a good silicone one is worth the investment and easier to maintain.

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Make sure the rack is in the middle position for even baking.
2. Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup honey, ½ cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons mustard, 1 teaspoon ground cloves, and 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar until smooth. Set aside.
3. Place the spiral ham cut-side down on a rack in the roasting pan. Pour ½ cup water or pineapple juice into the bottom of the pan to keep the ham moist during baking.
4. Cover the ham loosely with foil (shiny side down) to trap moisture and prevent the glaze from burning early. Pop it in the oven.
5. Bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes (roughly 10 minutes per pound), basting every 20 minutes with the honey glaze using a silicone brush. This slow layering builds a sticky, caramelized crust without burning.
6. About 15 minutes before baking is done, remove the foil and arrange pineapple rings over the ham’s surface. Secure each ring with a toothpick if needed.
7. Continue baking uncovered for the last 15 minutes to let the glaze thicken and pineapple caramelize—watch carefully to avoid burning.
8. Add maraschino cherries in the center of each pineapple ring as a festive touch, if desired.
9. Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 140°F (60°C) for fully heated pre-cooked ham.
10. Remove from oven and tent loosely with foil. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing to let juices redistribute.

Pro tip: If your ham is extra salty, soak it in cold water for a couple of hours before cooking, changing the water once. I learned that the hard way after a first overly salty attempt!

When basting, be gentle so you don’t separate the spiral slices. The glaze should be thick and sticky, not runny. If it looks watery, reduce the vinegar slightly.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

When it comes to perfecting your honey glazed spiral ham, timing and technique are key. One common mistake is rushing the glaze application—honestly, layering it slowly during baking is what makes that beautiful, sticky crust. I’ve learned that starting with a room temperature ham helps the glaze absorb better rather than sliding off cold meat.

Don’t skip the water or pineapple juice in the bottom of the roasting pan—it’s a simple trick that keeps the ham juicy during the relatively long bake time. Tent with foil until the last 15 minutes to avoid burning the sugars in the glaze.

Another tip: Use a meat thermometer to avoid drying out your ham. Spiral hams are pre-cooked, but if you leave it too long, it can become tough and rubbery. I like to pull mine right at 140°F (60°C) internal temperature, then rest it before serving.

Multitasking tip: While the ham is baking, you can prepare side dishes or set the table—just remember to baste every 20 minutes. I keep a timer handy so I don’t forget.

If you want a deeper flavor, brush some of the glaze on the ham immediately after removing it from the oven, then let it sit for a few minutes before slicing. It gives that extra glossy finish that’s hard to resist.

Variations & Adaptations

Here are some tasty ways to switch things up with this honey glazed spiral ham recipe:

• Spicy Kick: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne or chopped chipotle in adobo to the glaze for a smoky heat that cuts through the sweetness.
• Maple Twist: Swap honey with pure maple syrup and add a splash of bourbon or whiskey for a richer, boozy flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free mustard and double-check the ham label. This recipe is naturally gluten-free otherwise.
• Slow Cooker Adaptation: Place ham with pineapple rings in a slow cooker, pour glaze on top, and cook on low for 3-4 hours, basting once if possible.
• Tropical Flair: Mix diced mango or papaya with pineapple chunks and spoon over the sliced ham before serving for a fresh fruit contrast.

One personal favorite variation involves brushing the ham with a mix of honey and orange marmalade for a citrusy brightness. It’s a bit unexpected but makes the glaze sparkle with flavor.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve this honey glazed spiral ham warm or at room temperature, sliced thin for easy plating. It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. For a festive touch, garnish with extra pineapple rings and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme.

Leftovers? No worries. Wrap tightly in foil or store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so it’s great for next-day sandwiches or salads.

To reheat, gently warm slices in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 275°F (135°C) covered with foil to prevent drying. Microwave reheating works too, but watch carefully to keep slices tender.

If you want to freeze leftovers, slice the ham and store in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This honey glazed spiral ham is not just delicious but also a good source of protein, providing about 20-25 grams per serving (3 oz/85g). Using pineapple adds vitamin C and natural enzymes that can aid digestion. Honey offers antioxidants and natural sweetness without refined sugars.

While ham contains sodium, choosing a low-sodium spiral ham and balancing your meal with fresh veggies helps keep it healthy. This recipe fits nicely into gluten-free and low-carb diets, especially if paired with nutrient-rich sides.

Personally, I appreciate this recipe for its ability to bring people together around a wholesome, satisfying meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or comfort. It’s a reminder that good food can be both nourishing and joyful.

Conclusion

If you’re hunting for a show-stopping centerpiece that’s both easy and packed with flavor, this perfect honey glazed spiral ham with pineapple is your new go-to. It’s sweet, tangy, tender, and downright irresistible—the kind of dish that turns any meal into a celebration.

Feel free to tweak the glaze or fruit to match your taste buds or holiday mood. I love how adaptable it is, yet always delivers those familiar, comforting vibes. This recipe has a special place in my heart and kitchen, and I hope it finds one in yours too.

Give it a try, share your thoughts, or tell me your own spin on it in the comments below. Happy cooking and cheers to delicious moments with loved ones!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a frozen spiral ham for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure it’s fully thawed before baking. Follow package instructions for thawing safely in the fridge to keep the texture perfect.

Do I need to baste the ham during cooking?

It’s highly recommended to baste every 20 minutes to build a sticky, caramelized glaze and keep the ham moist.

Can I make this recipe without pineapple?

Absolutely! The glaze stands well on its own, but pineapple adds a nice brightness. You can substitute with apple slices or leave it out entirely.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, just double-check that your ham and mustard don’t contain gluten. Most spiral hams and mustard are naturally gluten-free.

How long can I keep leftovers in the fridge?

Store leftovers in an airtight container and consume within 4 days. Reheat gently to maintain tenderness.

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