There’s something special about a holiday ham glazed with tropical sweetness and warm spice.

This pineapple guava glazed ham is glossy, fragrant, and perfectly balanced with fruit, ginger, and cloves, making it ideal for festive gatherings or celebratory dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The glaze combines pineapple and guava for a bright, tropical flavor.

Using a pre-cooked spiral ham keeps prep simple and stress-free.

The ham stays juicy while developing a beautifully glossy finish.

It’s impressive enough for holidays but easy enough for home cooks.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Pineapple juice and guava nectar create the fruity base of the glaze.

Brown sugar adds richness and helps the glaze caramelize.

Fresh or ground ginger brings warmth and depth.

Whole cloves add classic holiday aroma and spice.

Guava jelly gives the final glaze a smooth, shiny finish.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Simmer the glaze until syrupy so it clings well to the ham.

Rinse the ham before baking to remove excess saltiness.

Use a rack in the roasting pan to allow even heating.

Apply extra glaze at the end for maximum shine and flavor.

How to Make Pineapple Guava Glazed Ham

Step 1 – Make the glaze

Combine pineapple juice, guava nectar, pineapple juice from the can, brown sugar, ginger, and cloves in a saucepan.

Bring to a boil, then simmer until thickened.

Step 2 – Warm the pineapple slices

Add pineapple slices to the glaze, heat briefly, then set aside.

Step 3 – Heat the ham

Wrap the ham in foil and bake until warmed through.

Step 4 – Decorate and glaze

Arrange pineapple slices on the ham and brush generously with the pineapple glaze.

Step 5 – Finish with guava jelly

Melt guava jelly and brush over the ham. Return to the oven uncovered to set the glaze.

What to Serve Them With

Serve with roasted vegetables or scalloped potatoes.

Pair with rice or mashed sweet potatoes.

Add a fresh green salad to balance the richness.

Variations / Substitutions

Use orange juice instead of pineapple juice for a citrus twist.

Swap guava jelly for apricot or mango preserves.

Add a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth.

Use fresh pineapple slices if preferred.

Storage & Leftovers

Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheat gently covered to retain moisture.

Leftovers are great for sandwiches or fried rice.

FAQs

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, the glaze can be made up to 2 days in advance.

Is fresh ginger better than ground?
Fresh ginger gives brighter flavor, but both work well.

Do I need to stud the ham with cloves?
It’s optional, but adds aroma and presentation.

Can I use a boneless ham?
Yes, adjust heating time as needed.

How do I prevent the ham from drying out?
Keep it covered while heating and glaze at the end.

Can I double the glaze?
Yes, extra glaze is great for serving on the side.

What internal temperature should the ham reach?
145°F (63°C) is ideal for pre-cooked ham.

Is this recipe very sweet?
It’s balanced, with fruit and spice offsetting the sugar.

Can I skip the pineapple slices?
Yes, the glaze works well on its own.

Is this recipe holiday-friendly?
Absolutely, it’s perfect for festive meals.

Final Thoughts

This pineapple guava glazed ham is juicy, glossy, and bursting with tropical flavor.

It’s a beautiful centerpiece that feels festive, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to prepare.

The Pantry Door