As I flipped through an old cookbook, a recipe tucked between pages caught my eye—the kind of holiday ham that brings the family together. That’s how I stumbled upon a vision of Easy Chipotle Pineapple Jerk Glazed Ham, a delightful blend of smoky chipotle heat and the sweet sunshine of pineapple. Not only does this dish transform a traditional holiday centerpiece into a tropical delight, but its sweet and spicy glaze makes it a surefire crowd-pleaser for any festive gathering. What’s more, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare, leaving you more time to create lasting memories with loved ones around the table. Ready to spice up your holiday feast? Let’s dive into crafting this mouthwatering ham that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why is this ham so special?

Simplicity: With just a few easy steps, you can have a stunning centerpiece that dazzles both the eyes and taste buds.

Tropical Fusion: The vibrant combination of smoky chipotle and sweet pineapple brings a unique twist to the classic holiday ham.

Flavor Explosion: Each bite melds savory spice and sweetness, ensuring you’ll have guests raving about the meal long after it’s gone.

Versatile Pairing: Serve it with classic sides like creamy mac and cheese or fresh coleslaw to create a memorable feast.

Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is perfect for gatherings, offering something for everyone to enjoy—whether they prefer sweet or spicy! For more festive ideas, check out my Hamburger Stroganoff Discover.

Chipotle Pineapple Jerk Glazed Ham Ingredients

For the Ham
• Cooked Ham – Bone-in, shank or butt end (9 to 11 lb) is best for a juicy finish; ensure it’s fully cooked.

For the Spice Rub
• Black Pepper – 2 tsp, freshly ground enhances overall flavor.
• Cayenne Pepper – 2 to 3 tsp, adjust for your preferred heat level.
• Allspice – 1 tsp, key for that authentic jerk flavor.
• Onion Powder – 2 tsp, a must for enhanced taste.
• Kosher Salt – 1/2 tsp, brings out all the flavors beautifully.
• Dried Thyme – 2 tsp, adds earthy notes to the mix.
• Brown Sugar – 2 tsp (for rub), plus 1/2 cup (for glaze); use dark for richer flavor.
• Chipotle Chili Powder – 2 tsp, gives that signature smokiness; substitute with paprika if desired.
• Garlic Powder – 1 tbsp, amplifies the savory character.
• Smoked Paprika – 1 tsp, further intensifies the smoky goodness.
• Ground Cinnamon – 1/2 tsp, a warm touch to the spice blend.

For the Glaze
• Maple Syrup – 1/2 cup, preferred for its deep flavor; enhances the sweetness.
• Bourbon or Rum – 1/4 cup, optional for an extra layer of flavor.
• Pineapple Juice – 3/4 cup, the sweet liquid your ham craves.
• Diced Pineapple – 2 cups, fresh is best; it adds not just sweetness but also texture.

This Chipotle Pineapple Jerk Glazed Ham is sure to become a holiday favorite within your family, merging the zest of tropical flavors with cherished traditions. Happy cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chipotle Pineapple Jerk Glazed Ham

Step 1: Prep the Ham
Start by removing your cooked ham from the refrigerator and keeping it wrapped. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 2 hours to achieve an even temperature, which ensures a juicy result when you bake your Chipotle Pineapple Jerk Glazed Ham.

Step 2: Oven Preheat
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This moderate heat allows the ham to warm through while caramelizing the flavors beautifully. Consider placing the oven rack in the center for even cooking, ensuring your ham gets all-around delicious warmth.

Step 3: Spice Rub
In a small bowl, mix together the black pepper, cayenne, allspice, onion powder, kosher salt, thyme, brown sugar, chipotle chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cinnamon. Rub this fragrant mixture generously over your ham, ensuring every crevice is coated to infuse those delightful spicy and sweet notes throughout the Chipotle Pineapple Jerk Glazed Ham.

Step 4: Bake
Cover your seasoned ham tightly with aluminum foil to lock in moisture as it bakes. Place it in the preheated oven and let it cook for 1 1/2 hours. You’ll know it’s time to check when the aroma fills your kitchen; this ensures the ham stays juicy and flavorful without drying out.

Step 5: Prepare Glaze
While the ham bakes, create the delectable glaze by combining brown sugar, maple syrup, bourbon (if using), chopped chipotles, and pineapple juice in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally, and then reduce to a simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing it to thicken and intensify in flavor.

Step 6: Glaze the Ham
Once the baking time is up, increase the oven temperature to 400°F (204°C). Remove the foil and brush a generous layer of the prepared glaze over the ham. Then, scatter or securely pin diced pineapple around the ham for an extra burst of tropical sweetness, enhancing the finished look of your Chipotle Pineapple Jerk Glazed Ham.

Step 7: Final Bake
Return the ham to the oven, uncovered, for an additional 25-30 minutes. This step allows the glaze to caramelize and creates a beautiful, glossy finish on your ham. Keep an eye on it to prevent excessive burning while the edges turn golden brown.

Step 8: Rest and Serve
After baking, let the Chipotle Pineapple Jerk Glazed Ham sit for about 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice tender and full of flavor. Serve with the remaining glaze on the side, and watch your guests swoon over the sweet and spicy combination!

Storage Tips for Chipotle Pineapple Jerk Glazed Ham

Refrigerate: Wrap tightly or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days, ensuring it’s well-protected from air and odors.

Freeze: Sliced portions can be frozen for up to 2 months, perfect for enjoying this delightful Chipotle Pineapple Jerk Glazed Ham at a later time.

Reheat: Cover slices with foil in a 325°F oven for about 10 minutes per pound, or use the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

Chipotle Pineapple Jerk Glazed Ham Variations

Customize your ham with these delightful twists that will tantalize your taste buds and fit your dietary needs.

Smoked Turkey Breast: Substitute ham with a smoked turkey breast for a lighter, equally flavorful option that’s perfect for any occasion.
Rum-Infused Glaze: Swap bourbon for dark rum to create a richer, warm note that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of pineapple.
Citrus Twist: Replace pineapple juice with fresh orange juice for a zesty citrus kick that brightens the glaze’s flavor profile.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the glaze for a fresh finish that brings a burst of color and brightness.
Spicy Kick: If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes into the spice rub for an extra layer of heat. Each bite will surprise and delight!
Tropical Medley: Amp up the fruitiness by mixing in diced mango or papaya with the pineapple for a vibrant fruit medley on your ham. The resulting sweetness will be heavenly.
Maple Alternative: Consider using agave syrup instead of maple syrup for a lighter sweetener that still delivers a delicate sweetness and depth.
Vegetarian Option: Instead of a traditional ham, try using a hearty roasted vegetable centerpiece with the same chipotle glaze for a flavorful and filling vegetarian alternative.

These options will add a new dimension to your holiday meals and keep everyone excited for during your festive spread. For more flavorful ideas, consider pairing your ham with my Bbq Pineapple Chicken or a refreshing Pineapple Cucumber Salad. Happy cooking!

What to Serve with Easy Chipotle Pineapple Jerk Glazed Ham

Dive into a deliciously vibrant feast that will leave your guests raving long after the last bite!

Creamy Mac and Cheese: The rich, cheesy comfort balances the smoky ham, making for a crowd-pleasing side that everyone loves.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the spicy glaze while providing a hearty texture that brightens up the plate.
Tangy Coleslaw: A refreshingly crunchy addition, coleslaw adds a burst of crispness that perfectly offsets the ham’s rich flavors.
Coconut Rice: Sweet and subtly fragrant, this tropical side mirrors the ham’s jerk-inspired glaze, creating a cohesive island theme.
Scalloped Potatoes: With their creamy layers, scalloped potatoes offer indulgence and pair wonderfully with the sweet and spicy elements of the ham.
Grilled Pineapple Skewers: Enhance the tropical vibe by serving grilled pineapple, its caramelized sweetness accentuating the fruity glaze beautifully.
Sparkling Citrus Punch: This bright, refreshing drink elevates the meal with its tartness, balancing the richness of the ham while adding festive flair.
Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, the warm, gooey chocolate contrasts with the savory ham, leaving everyone feeling satisfied and ready for more.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Chipotle Pineapple Jerk Glazed Ham preparations are ideal for busy cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the spice rub and apply it to the ham up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate the rubbed ham in a tightly sealed container. Additionally, the glaze can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the fridge to keep it fresh and flavorful. When ready to bake, just allow the ham to come to room temperature for about 2 hours, preheat your oven, and follow the final baking steps as indicated. This way, you will enjoy a mouthwatering, tropical-style ham that’s just as delicious with less last-minute stress!

Expert Tips for Chipotle Pineapple Jerk Glazed Ham

Timing is Key: Apply the glaze during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking to prevent it from burning while ensuring a lovely caramelized finish.
Use a Thermometer: For perfectly cooked ham, use a meat thermometer; aim for an internal temperature of 140°F to ensure it’s juicy without overcooking.
Scoring the Ham: Lightly score the surface of your ham before applying the spice rub to enhance flavor absorption and create a beautiful finish.
Resting Matters: Don’t skip the resting time after baking. Allow your Chipotle Pineapple Jerk Glazed Ham to rest for 15-20 minutes for better slicing and flavor.
Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your heat preference, ensuring it’s just right for you and your guests.

Chipotle Pineapple Jerk Glazed Ham Recipe FAQs

What type of ham should I use?
For the best results, opt for a bone-in, shank or butt end (9 to 11 lb) ham that is labeled “ready-to-eat” or “fully cooked.” This ensures that your Chipotle Pineapple Jerk Glazed Ham is juicy and flavorful with minimal effort.

How should I store leftovers from the Chipotle Pineapple Jerk Glazed Ham?
After enjoying your delicious ham, wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or foil, or store them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This will allow you to relish those sweet and spicy flavors for days to come!

Can I freeze the Chipotle Pineapple Jerk Glazed Ham?
Absolutely! If you have any leftover slices, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. To do this, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can easily pull them out for a future quick meal.

What if my glaze burns while baking?
No worries! To prevent burning, ensure you apply the glaze during the last 30-45 minutes of baking. If you find the glaze is getting too dark towards the end, you can tent the ham loosely with foil to shield it while still allowing the heat to caramelize it.

Are there any dietary considerations for the Chipotle Pineapple Jerk Glazed Ham?
This recipe contains ingredients that may pose issues for those with specific allergies, such as the presence of gluten in some spice mixes or bourbon. Always check ingredient labels carefully. If you’re serving someone with dietary restrictions, consider using a gluten-free bourbon or preparing the glaze without alcohol.