Baked Sweet Ham
Tender baked ham glazed with pineapple and brown sugar, perfect for family feasts or special occasions, offering a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pierce the ham thoroughly with a large fork.
- Place the ham in a large bowl or pot and cover with Dr. Pepper. Refrigerate for 24 hours.
- Drain the ham and preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Put the ham on a rack in a baking dish.
- Cover the ham with foil.
- Bake the ham for 1 hour.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
- Insert whole cloves into the ham at intervals.
- Mix the reserved pineapple juice with brown sugar to make the glaze.
- Spread the glaze thickly over the ham, fat side up.
- Place pineapple chunks on top of the ham and hold them in place with toothpicks.
- Bake the ham with pineapple for an additional 30 minutes.
- Prepare yams, potatoes, and vegetables as desired before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider marinating the ham in the Dr. Pepper for up to 48 hours. If you don't have Wondra flour, you can substitute with all-purpose flour, but be sure to whisk it well into the glaze to avoid lumps. For a twist, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked sweet ham alongside classic sides like green beans or peas for a balanced meal. Consider pairing it with Grandma'S Sweet Chili Sauce for a spicy-sweet contrast. This dish also goes well with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a delightful spread at gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover baked sweet ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, wrap slices in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave portions on low power, covered, to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Sweet Ham contains roughly 546 calories, with 46g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (92% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (78% of the Daily Value), and iron (65% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 22g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of soda instead of Dr. Pepper?
Yes, you can substitute Dr. Pepper with other sodas like root beer or cola for a different flavor profile. Each will impart its unique taste to the ham, so feel free to experiment based on your preference.
How do I know when the ham is fully cooked?
The ham is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the ham to check the temperature. Ensure it’s heated through but not overcooked to maintain moisture.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftover baked sweet ham. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).