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Golden hot honey–glazed ham scored in a diamond pattern, coated in a shiny caramelized glaze, and topped with thick charred pineapple rings with grill marks. The ham sits on a festive serving platter with warm lighting, surrounded by subtle garnishes like herbs and roasted vegetables.

Hot Honey Glazed Ham with Charred Pineapple

A sweet, spicy, caramelized glazed ham topped with smoky charred pineapple — the perfect show-stopping centerpiece for holidays or special dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Cuisine American, Comfort Food, Holiday
Servings 8
Calories 340 kcal

Ingredients
  

Ham

  • 1 fully cooked turkey ham beef ham, or chicken ham (3–4 lb)
  • Whole cloves optional, for studding

Hot Honey Glaze

  • ½ cup honey
  • 3 tbsp hot sauce adjust to preference
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp melted butter
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • Pinch of salt

Charred Pineapple

  • 1 fresh pineapple cut into rings or 1 can thick pineapple slices
  • 1 tbsp butter or oil
  • 1 tbsp honey optional

Instructions
 

Prepare the Ham

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern to help the glaze soak in.
  • If using whole cloves, stud the intersections for aromatic depth.

Make the Hot Honey Glaze

  • In a saucepan, combine honey, hot sauce, brown sugar, mustard, vinegar, garlic powder, paprika, melted butter, and salt.
  • Simmer on low for 3–5 minutes until glossy and slightly thickened.

Brush and Bake

  • Place ham in a baking dish lined with foil.
  • Brush generously with glaze.
  • Bake for 45 minutes, basting every 10–15 minutes for maximum flavor.

Char the Pineapple

  • While ham bakes, heat a skillet or grill pan over high heat.
  • Brush pineapple rings with butter or oil.
  • Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until deep grill marks appear.
  • Drizzle lightly with honey for caramelization (optional).

Final Glaze & Broil

  • After 45 minutes, add pineapple rings on top of the ham.
  • Brush everything with another coat of glaze.
  • Broil for 3–5 minutes until the glaze bubbles and caramelizes.

Rest & Serve

  • Let the ham rest 10 minutes before slicing.
  • Serve warm with charred pineapple on top or on the side.

Notes

Tips & Variations

Tips

  • Baste often — every 10–15 minutes ensures a lacquered, shiny crust.
  • Don’t rush the broil — the glaze can burn quickly, so keep a close eye.
  • Use fresh pineapple for deeper char and natural sweetness.
  • If glaze becomes too thick, whisk in 1 tsp water at a time.

Variations

  • Orange Hot Honey Ham: Add orange zest + juice to the glaze.
  • BBQ Hot Honey: Mix 2 tbsp BBQ sauce into the glaze for smoky depth.
  • Extra Spicy Version: Increase hot sauce or add chili flakes.
  • Brown Butter Glaze: Brown the butter first for a nutty aroma.
  • Ginger-Pineapple Fusion: Add grated ginger and pineapple juice to glaze.

Storage

  • Fridge: Up to 4 days in airtight containers
  • Freezer: Up to 2 months (slice and freeze in portions)
  • Reheat: Oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10–12 minutes, or pan-sizzle slices
Keyword charred pineapple ham, Christmas ham alternative, easy festive dinner, holiday ham recipe, hot honey glazed ham, spicy honey ham, sweet and spicy glazed ham, Thanksgiving main course