Perfect Pineapple Baked Ham with Cloves Easy Festive Recipe Guide

Let me tell you, the aroma of a perfectly baked ham, glazed with sweet pineapple and studded with fragrant cloves, wafting through the kitchen is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. The first time I baked this pineapple baked ham with cloves, I was instantly hooked—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, my grandma used to make this for our holiday gatherings, and honestly, it feels like a warm hug in every bite.

You know what’s funny? I stumbled upon this recipe while trying to recreate that nostalgic flavor on a rainy weekend, and I wish I’d found it years ago. My family couldn’t stop sneaking slices off the cooling rack (and I can’t really blame them). This perfect pineapple baked ham with cloves recipe quickly became a staple for festive gatherings and gift-worthy treats. It’s dangerously easy to make, and it brings pure, nostalgic comfort to any table.

Whether you’re looking to brighten up your holiday spread, impress at potlucks, or just want a sweet treat for your family, this recipe fits the bill. Tested multiple times in the name of research, of course, this ham promises juicy tenderness with a caramelized crust that sings with every bite. You’re going to want to bookmark this one for all your festive occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Honestly, this pineapple baked ham with cloves isn’t just another ham recipe—it’s the best version you’ll find around. Here’s why you’re going to fall head over heels for it:

• Quick & Easy: Comes together in under 2 hours, perfect for busy holiday prep or last-minute guests.
• Simple Ingredients: No need for fancy or hard-to-find items; your pantry probably already has everything you need.
• Perfect for Festive Gatherings: Ideal for Christmas dinners, Easter brunch, or any celebratory meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike rave about the balance of sweet pineapple and warm cloves.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The juicy ham pairs perfectly with the caramelized glaze, making it irresistibly flavorful.

What sets this recipe apart? It’s the special touch of piercing whole cloves into the ham before baking, which infuse subtle warmth and spice throughout. Plus, the pineapple rings and their juice create a tangy-sweet glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. This isn’t just a ham—it’s comfort food reimagined with soul-soothing satisfaction and a little tropical flair.

When you take a bite, it’s like closing your eyes and savoring a festive celebration on your palate. It’s the kind of recipe that makes holiday stress melt away and turns simple moments into memorable feasts.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Most are pantry staples or easy to find in any grocery store, making it a breeze to prepare.

• Bone-in ham (about 8-10 lbs / 3.6-4.5 kg): Pre-cooked, spiral-cut preferred for easy slicing.
• Pineapple rings (canned or fresh, about 8 rings): Fresh adds brightness, canned is perfectly sweet and tender.
• Whole cloves (about 20-30): For studding the ham and adding warm spice.
• Brown sugar (1 cup / 200g): Adds rich sweetness and caramelizes beautifully.
• Honey (1/2 cup / 120 ml): For sticky, golden glaze.
• Dijon mustard (2 tablespoons / 30 ml): Balances sweetness with tangy depth.
• Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon / 2g): Subtle warmth to complement the cloves.
• Ground ginger (1/2 teaspoon / 1g): Adds a hint of zing.
• Apple cider vinegar (2 tablespoons / 30 ml): Brightens the glaze, cuts richness.
• Water or pineapple juice (1/2 cup / 120 ml): For basting and moisture during baking.
• Optional: Maraschino cherries (for garnish, adds color and a little extra sweetness).

I recommend using a quality bone-in ham from trusted brands like Smithfield or Hormel for best texture and flavor. When selecting pineapple, fresh is wonderful in summer, but canned pineapple rings work perfectly year-round. Whole cloves are tiny powerhouses of flavor—don’t skip them! If you prefer a slightly less sweet glaze, you can adjust the brown sugar down a bit without losing that signature caramel touch.

Equipment Needed

• Roasting pan with rack: Allows even heat circulation and keeps the ham elevated to prevent sogginess.
• Basting brush: For applying the glaze evenly—honestly, a silicone brush works wonders here.
• Sharp knife: To score the ham and pierce the cloves.
• Meat thermometer: Optional, but highly recommended to check internal temperature for perfect doneness.
• Aluminum foil: For tenting the ham to avoid over-browning.

If you don’t have a roasting rack, you can improvise with a bed of sturdy vegetables like carrots or onions to lift the ham. For budget-friendly options, a heavy-duty disposable roasting pan works just fine and saves cleanup hassle. Keep your knives sharp to make scoring easy; dull blades make the cloves harder to insert and the glaze less able to penetrate.

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This moderate temperature ensures the ham warms through without drying out. Get your roasting pan ready with the rack inside.
2. Prepare the ham: Remove the ham from packaging and pat dry with paper towels. Use a sharp knife to score a diamond pattern across the surface; make cuts about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) deep. This helps the glaze soak in and gives those signature caramelized edges.
3. Stud with cloves: Insert whole cloves into the center of each diamond. Don’t be shy—this adds incredible aroma and a subtle spicy note to every bite.
4. Arrange pineapple rings: Place pineapple rings over the ham, securing them with toothpicks if needed. This keeps the pineapple in place and lets the juices mingle with the ham during baking.
5. Mix the glaze: In a bowl, whisk together brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, ground ginger, apple cider vinegar, and pineapple juice. This blend creates a sticky, flavorful glaze that’s sweet, tangy, and slightly spiced.
6. Place ham in the roasting pan: Position the ham on the rack, fat side up, and brush generously with the prepared glaze. Reserve some glaze for basting later.
7. Bake uncovered for 1 hour. After 30 minutes, baste the ham with the remaining glaze every 10 minutes. This keeps it moist and builds that beautiful caramelized crust.
8. Check internal temperature: Aim for 140°F (60°C) for warm, juicy ham. Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part without touching bone.
9. Rest before slicing: Remove the ham from oven and tent loosely with foil. Let it rest for 15 minutes—this locks in juices and makes slicing easier.
10. Optional garnish: Add maraschino cherries to the pineapple rings for a festive pop of color.

Pro tip: If the glaze begins to burn or brown too quickly, tent the ham loosely with foil to protect it while finishing the cooking. You’ll know it’s ready when the glaze is sticky and caramelized, and the ham smells like holiday magic.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Let’s face it, getting the perfect pineapple baked ham with cloves isn’t rocket science, but a few tips make all the difference. First, scoring the ham properly is crucial—not too shallow, or the glaze won’t penetrate; not too deep, or you risk drying out the meat. Use a sharp knife and steady hands.

Don’t skip the basting! Reapplying the glaze every 10 minutes during baking layers flavor and keeps the ham moist. I learned the hard way that neglecting this step leads to a dull ham with a dry crust (been there, burned that).

Timing matters, but so does patience. The internal temperature is your best guide. Overcooking dries the ham, undercooking leaves it cold inside. Using a reliable meat thermometer is a game-changer.

When inserting cloves, spacing them evenly ensures balanced flavor and a pretty presentation. And trust me, the aroma filling your kitchen as the cloves release their warmth is worth every effort.

Lastly, resting the ham after baking is key. Tent with foil and let those juices redistribute—you’ll get cleaner slices and a juicier bite. Multitasking is your friend here: prep sides or set the table while the ham rests.

Variations & Adaptations

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few ideas I’ve tried or recommend:

• Gluten-Free Version: The recipe is naturally gluten-free, but double-check your mustard and any canned ingredients to avoid additives.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the glaze for a subtle kick that balances the sweet pineapple.
• Maple Glaze Swap: Replace honey with pure maple syrup for deeper, earthy sweetness and a different flavor profile.
• Slow Cooker Ham: If oven space is tight, you can cook the ham on low in a slow cooker for 4-5 hours, glazing during the last hour. Just be sure to brown it under the broiler for that caramelized finish.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs to the roasting pan to infuse herbal notes into the ham juices.

I personally love adding a sprinkle of ground allspice to the glaze for an extra layer of warm flavor—makes it feel extra festive without complicating the prep.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This pineapple baked ham with cloves is best served warm or at room temperature. Slice it thinly for sandwiches or thick for a hearty main. It pairs beautifully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a crisp green salad.

For a festive touch, arrange the slices on a platter with fresh herbs and leftover pineapple rings. A glass of sparkling cider or dry white wine complements the sweet-savory flavors perfectly.

Leftovers? No worries! Wrap slices tightly in foil or airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze sliced ham for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the oven at 275°F (135°C) covered with foil to keep it moist; avoid microwaving as it can dry the meat out.

Flavors often deepen after a day, so if you can wait, the ham tastes even better the next day. Just bring it to room temperature before serving to enjoy its full juicy goodness.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Per serving (approx. 4 oz / 113g):

Calories	280
Protein	22g
Fat	12g
Carbohydrates	16g
Sugar	14g

This ham provides a good source of protein and is moderately low in carbs, thanks to the natural sweetness of pineapple and honey. The cloves add antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, while the vinegar helps balance blood sugar levels. For those watching sodium intake, opt for a low-sodium ham variety and use glaze sparingly.

From a wellness perspective, this recipe offers a comforting yet relatively balanced holiday option that doesn’t stray into overly processed territory. Plus, the natural fruit sugars and spices bring a touch of festivity without relying on artificial flavors.

Conclusion

So there you have it—the perfect pineapple baked ham with cloves that’s easy, flavorful, and guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re cooking for a big holiday feast or a cozy gathering, this recipe brings warmth and joy to the table.

Feel free to tweak the glaze sweetness, spice levels, or cooking method to suit your taste. I love this recipe because it reminds me of family traditions and those special moments that food creates. Now it’s your turn to make some memories.

Go ahead, give it a try and share your experience! I’d love to hear your variations or tips in the comments below. Happy cooking and may your festive gatherings be filled with laughter, love, and, of course, delicious ham.

FAQs

How long should I bake the ham?

Bake the ham at 325°F (163°C) for about 15 minutes per pound (about 2 hours for an 8-10 lb ham), until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh pineapple adds brightness and texture. Use ripe, sliced rings and adjust glaze sweetness if needed.

Do I have to use cloves?

Cloves add a unique warm spice that defines the flavor, but if you’re not a fan, you can skip them or substitute with a pinch of ground cloves in the glaze.

How do I store leftover ham?

Wrap leftover ham tightly in foil or airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze slices for up to 2 months.

Can I prepare the ham the day before?

Yes! Prepare and glaze the ham a day ahead, then cover and refrigerate. Bring it to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.

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