Melt In Your Mouth Ham
A tender, flavorful baked ham glazed with mustard and brown sugar, topped with pineapple and cherries, perfect for festive gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the ham on a large piece of aluminum foil and put it in a large baking pan.
- Trim all fat from the ham.
- Spread a layer of mustard over the entire ham.
- Follow with a heavy layer of brown sugar.
- Secure pineapple slices on the ham with toothpicks.
- Pack crushed pineapple around the slices and secure cherries with toothpicks in the center of the pineapple slices.
- Wrap up the ham with foil.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 4 to 5 hours, baking every 1 hour or so.
- Remove from oven and enjoy!
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the brown sugar. If you don't have yellow mustard, Dijon or honey mustard can work as a substitute. Make sure to use heavy-duty aluminum foil to keep the ham moist during baking. If you want a sweeter glaze, add a bit of maple syrup to the mustard before spreading it on the ham.
Serving Suggestions
This melt-in-your-mouth ham pairs beautifully with sides like roasted asparagus or Mom'S Red Rice for a complete meal. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or with rolls for sandwiches. It's also fantastic as a centerpiece for a brunch spread or holiday gathering, where it can shine alongside other American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover ham should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and can last for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing; it can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, place the ham in a baking dish with a little water, cover with foil, and warm it in a 325°F oven until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Melt In Your Mouth Ham contains roughly 68 calories, with 2g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 ham for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of ham, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary. A spiral-cut ham is a great alternative as it allows for better glaze penetration, but ensure you adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent drying out.
What if I don't have pineapple slices?
If you don't have pineapple slices, you can use fresh pineapple or even canned peaches as a substitute. Just ensure the fruit is firm enough to hold its shape during baking. You can also skip the fruit altogether and simply focus on the glaze for a delicious flavor.
How can I tell when the ham is done cooking?
The best way to check if the ham is done is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 145°F (63°C). If it's a larger ham, aim for 160°F (71°C) for optimal tenderness. Let it rest for about 15-20 minutes before slicing for the best results.
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).