Every Thanksgiving, without fail, I make my famous Thanksgiving Spiral Ham with Pineapple Glaze, and let me tell you, it never fails to impress! I’ve whipped this up for family gatherings, Friendsgiving celebrations, and even holiday potlucks, and each time, the compliments come pouring in. The sweet and tangy glaze is a total game-changer, transforming a simple ham into a stunning centerpiece that steals the show. Trust me, this recipe is an absolute must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Thanksgiving Spiral Ham with Pineapple Glaze
- Easy Preparation: This recipe is straightforward and perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
- Versatile Dish: It pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it a perfect addition to any holiday feast.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet pineapple and savory ham creates an irresistible flavor profile.
- Stunning Presentation: The spiral cuts and glaze create an eye-catching dish that will wow your guests.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare elements in advance, making your holiday cooking stress-free.
The Secret to Perfect Thanksgiving Spiral Ham with Pineapple Glaze
The key to achieving the perfect Thanksgiving Spiral Ham with Pineapple Glaze lies in the glaze itself. A mix of pineapple juice, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard creates a sweet and tangy flavor that enhances the ham’s natural savoriness. One insider tip I’ve learned is to let the ham rest after glazing it. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving you that rich, mouthwatering taste. I promise, once you master this technique, you’ll feel like a culinary wizard in your kitchen!
Rave Reviews from Friends and Followers
“I brought this ham to our Thanksgiving dinner, and everyone couldn’t stop raving about it! The glaze was simply divine!” – Sarah M.
“This is my new go-to recipe for holiday gatherings. The flavors are incredible, and it looks so beautiful on the table!” – Tom R.
“I made this for my family’s Christmas dinner, and it was a massive hit! The leftovers didn’t last long!” – Emily T.
Creative Variations to Try
- Maple Mustard Glaze: Swap out pineapple for maple syrup and Dijon for a rich twist.
- Spicy Pineapple Glaze: Add a dash of cayenne pepper for a little heat that balances the sweetness.
- Herb-Infused Glaze: Mix fresh rosemary or thyme into your glaze for an aromatic touch.
- Brown Sugar and Orange Glaze: Incorporate fresh orange juice along with the pineapple for a citrusy lift.
Bonus: For a fun twist, try adding crushed pecans on top of the glaze before baking for extra crunch!
FAQs – All Your Questions Answered!
Can I use a different type of ham? Absolutely! While spiral-cut ham is ideal, you can use any pre-cooked ham. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze the ham? Yes! You can freeze leftover ham for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
What if I can’t find pineapple juice? You can substitute it with orange juice or even apple juice for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Serving Tips
- Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- The glazed ham can be refrigerated for up to 3 days before cooking, making it great for prep ahead of time.
- For serving, slice the ham in thin, even pieces to showcase the beautiful spiral cuts.
Perfect Occasions for Thanksgiving Spiral Ham with Pineapple Glaze
- Thanksgiving dinner with family and friends.
- Christmas celebrations or holiday parties.
- New Year’s Eve gatherings.
- Potlucks and community feasts.
- Birthday celebrations for loved ones who adore ham.
The Complete Recipe
Thank you for sticking with me through all the excitement! Now, let’s dive into making this fabulous Thanksgiving Spiral Ham with Pineapple Glaze.
Thanksgiving Spiral Ham with Pineapple Glaze
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked spiral ham (about 8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Tip: Use high-quality ingredients, especially the ham and pineapple juice, for the best flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some crushed pineapple to the glaze for an intensified fruity flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). A well-preheated oven ensures even cooking and a beautifully glazed finish.
Step 2: Prepare the Ham
Place the ham on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Make sure the cut side is facing down to keep it moist. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern for maximum glaze absorption.
Step 3: Make the Glaze
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine pineapple juice, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a simmer. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to thicken.
Step 4: Glaze the Ham
Brush half of the glaze generously over the ham. Make sure to get it into those scored cuts for maximum flavor! Reserve the other half for basting.
Step 5: Bake the Ham
Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Baste the ham with the reserved glaze every 30 minutes for that perfect caramelized crust.
Step 6: Carve and Serve
Once the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C), remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is tender and juicy.
Nutrition Info: This ham serves about 12-15 people and is high in protein and flavor, but keep in mind it can be high in sodium. Enjoy it as part of a balanced meal!
Final Thoughts
There you have it! The ultimate Thanksgiving Spiral Ham with Pineapple Glaze that’s sure to make your holiday celebrations unforgettable. I can’t stress enough how delicious and visually stunning this dish is. I’m practically drooling just thinking about it! I encourage you to give this recipe a try, and I promise it will become a beloved tradition in your home, just like it has in mine. Happy cooking!
