The aroma of Cranberry-Glazed Ham with Pineapple Chunks wafts through the air like a warm hug, promising a feast for the senses. Imagine tender ham bathed in a sweet-tart cranberry glaze, brightened by juicy pineapple chunks that burst with flavor. It’s like a holiday gathering in your mouth, even if you’re just indulging on a random Tuesday.

Every time I make this dish, it transports me back to family dinners where laughter filled the air and everyone eagerly awaited their slice. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or an impromptu celebration, this recipe is guaranteed to make hearts and stomachs happy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful cranberry-glazed ham is easy to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion
- Its tangy flavor profile pairs beautifully with savory ham and fresh pineapple
- The vibrant colors make your dinner table pop, captivating guests instantly
- This dish is versatile enough to serve at both casual gatherings and festive feasts effortlessly
I remember the first time I served this dish; my grandma’s eyes lit up like Christmas lights when she took her first bite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Bone-in Ham: Opt for a fully cooked bone-in ham; it adds flavor and makes carving easier.
Cranberry Sauce: Use homemade or store-bought; both work well and save you time.
Pineapple Chunks: Fresh or canned works wonders; choose juicy ones for that burst of tropical flavor.
Brown Sugar: This brings sweetness and caramelization; light or dark sugar both do the trick beautifully.
Ground Mustard: A little kick enhances the glaze’s flavor; it balances out the sweetness perfectly.
Cloves: Whole cloves add aromatic depth; they’re the secret weapon in bringing all these flavors together.
Apple Cider Vinegar: A splash helps cut through the sweetness; choose organic for a fresher taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Cranberry-Glazed Ham with Pineapple Chunks
Prepare Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) while you gather your ingredients. This ensures even cooking right from the start.
Create Your Glaze: In a medium saucepan over low heat, mix cranberry sauce, brown sugar, ground mustard, apple cider vinegar, and whole cloves until smooth and bubbly. The sweet aroma will fill your kitchen.
Score That Ham: Carefully score the surface of your ham in a diamond pattern using a sharp knife. This allows those luscious flavors to seep into every nook and cranny.
Apply The Glaze: Generously brush half of your glaze over the scored ham, ensuring it gets into those beautiful cuts. Reserve the rest for later glazing during cooking.
Insert Pineapple Chunks: Place pineapple chunks around and inside the scored areas of the ham. They’ll caramelize beautifully while adding sweetness to each slice.
Bake Away: Place your glazed ham in a roasting pan and bake uncovered for about 1 hour. Baste every 15 minutes with remaining glaze for added flavor magic!
Serve & Enjoy: Once golden brown and heated through (internal temp should reach 140°F), remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with those gorgeous pineapple chunks on each plate!
Now you have crafted an unforgettable Cranberry-Glazed Ham with Pineapple Chunks that will have everyone coming back for seconds! Enjoy every laugh-filled bite as memories are made around your table.
You Must Know
- The perfect cranberry-glazed ham with pineapple chunks is a sweet and savory delight that brings joy to any gathering
- The vibrant colors and luscious aromas fill the kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere
- This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that bonds friends and family
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by glazing the ham with cranberry sauce, then bake it while basting every 20 minutes for even flavor and moisture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with different fruits like peaches or apricots for a unique twist on the glaze.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain juiciness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve a perfect glaze, add a splash of orange juice for brightness
- Avoid overcrowding your baking dish to ensure even cooking
- Always let your ham rest before slicing for juicy pieces
There’s nothing quite like serving this beautiful cranberry-glazed ham at holiday dinners. Family members often ask for seconds, which always warms my heart!
FAQ
How can I make the cranberry glaze thicker?
Add cornstarch mixed with water while simmering the sauce on low heat.
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of canned?
Yes, fresh cranberries will yield a tart and vibrant glaze when cooked down properly.
What sides pair well with cranberry-glazed ham?
Roasted vegetables and creamy mashed potatoes complement this dish wonderfully, enhancing its flavors.

Cranberry-Glazed Ham with Pineapple Chunks
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- Author: Ann Foster
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 10 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of Cranberry-Glazed Ham with Pineapple Chunks. This festive dish features tender, juicy ham enveloped in a sweet-tart cranberry glaze, complemented by succulent pineapple. Perfect for any occasion, it brings warmth and joy to your table while evoking cherished family memories. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a spontaneous gathering, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.
Ingredients
- 1 (6-8 lb) bone-in ham, fully cooked
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp ground mustard
- 6 whole cloves
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine cranberry sauce, brown sugar, ground mustard, apple cider vinegar, and whole cloves until smooth and bubbly.
- Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern with a sharp knife.
- Generously brush half of the glaze over the scored ham; reserve the rest for later.
- Insert pineapple chunks around and inside the scored areas of the ham.
- Place the ham in a roasting pan and bake uncovered for about 1 hour, basting every 15 minutes with remaining glaze.
- Once golden brown and heated through (internal temperature should reach 140°F), let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 oz (85g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg






