Jack Daniel’s Glazed Ham With Pineapple

When you think about holiday meals, Jack Daniel's Glazed Ham with Pineapple might not be the first dish that comes to mind, yet it's a remarkable combination of flavors that deserves your attention. The rich undertones of whiskey blend seamlessly with the sweetness of pineapple, creating a unique taste profile that can elevate any gathering. By scoring the ham and generously applying the glaze, you'll guarantee a succulent result that's hard to resist. But before you get started, there are a few essential tips and techniques that can make all the difference in achieving that perfect caramelized crust.

Key Takeaways

• The Jack Daniel's Glazed Ham features a sweet and savory glaze made from brown sugar, pineapple juice, and Jack Daniel's whiskey.
• Scoring the ham in a diamond pattern allows the glaze to penetrate, enhancing flavor and presentation.
• Basting the ham every 30 minutes while baking creates a caramelized crust, adding depth to the dish.
• Garnish with pineapple rings and maraschino cherries for an attractive, festive presentation at holiday gatherings.
• Allow the ham to rest for 15 minutes after baking to ensure juicy and flavorful slices when served.

Tennessee Whiskey Heritage

Tennessee whiskey has carved out a unique niche in the world of spirits, standing out for its distinct production process and rich history. This beloved beverage isn't just a drink; it's a part of Tennessee's culture and heritage.

You're probably familiar with Jack Daniel's, one of the most famous brands, but it's just one piece of a larger story. In Tennessee, whiskey makers follow a process called the Lincoln County Process, which involves filtering the spirit through charcoal before aging it in barrels.

This step gives the whiskey a smooth and mellow flavor, setting it apart from other types. The state's lush environment, with its pristine water sources and abundant grains, also contributes to the whiskey's quality.

Since the 1800s, distillers have been crafting whiskey with care and passion, creating a deep-rooted tradition. Today, Tennessee whiskey is celebrated worldwide, and you can find it in cocktails, or even as an ingredient in delicious recipes, like the Jack Daniel's Glazed Ham.

Recipe

Jack Daniel's Glazed Ham

Jack Daniel's whiskey, a beloved American spirit, is known for its smooth and rich flavor profile, which makes it a perfect ingredient in a variety of culinary dishes. Established in 1866 in Lynchburg, Tennessee, Jack Daniel's has become synonymous with quality and craftsmanship, embodying the spirit of Southern hospitality.

The Tennessee whiskey is crafted using a unique charcoal mellowing process, giving it a distinctive taste that enhances both savory and sweet recipes. This whiskey also pairs beautifully with spices, much like the Spicy Gingerbread Rum Infusion that utilizes warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to create a festive flavor.

In this delightful ham recipe, Jack Daniel's whiskey adds depth and warmth to the glaze, transforming a traditional dish into a gourmet experience. The combination of the whiskey with brown sugar and pineapple juice creates a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors that will leave your guests raving.

Whether it's for a holiday gathering or a special occasion, this glazed ham will become a favorite centerpiece at your table.

Ingredients

• 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup Jack Daniel's whiskey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pineapple rings (for garnish)
• Maraschino cherries (for garnish)

To prepare this delectable Jack Daniel's Glazed Ham with Pineapple, you'll need a large roasting pan, a mixing bowl, and basic kitchen tools such as a whisk and a basting brush. A meat thermometer is also recommended to guarantee the ham is heated to the perfect temperature.

When preparing this recipe, it's important to baste the ham regularly with the glaze to enhance the flavor and achieve a beautiful, caramelized exterior. For added depth of flavor, you can let the glaze simmer for a few minutes longer to thicken before applying it to the ham.

If you want to make a stunning presentation, arrange the pineapple rings and maraschino cherries on the ham before baking, allowing them to caramelize and create an eye-catching feast. Remember, letting the ham rest for about 15 minutes after baking will help the juices redistribute, guaranteeing each slice is juicy and flavorful!

For a delightful pairing, consider serving this glazed ham with sides such as creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. A good bottle of Jack Daniel's whiskey on the side can also enhance the meal, allowing guests to enjoy a classic cocktail or sip it neat.

This dish not only brings people together but also creates lasting memories around the dinner table.

Step 1. Preheat Oven to 325°F

Before you plunge into preparing your Jack Daniel's Glazed Ham, you'll want to preheat your oven to 325°F. This step is essential because a properly heated oven guarantees that your ham cooks evenly and thoroughly.

Start by turning on your oven and adjusting the temperature dial to 325°F. As the oven warms up, you can gather your ingredients and tools, making the most of this waiting time.

While the oven preheats, it's a good idea to double-check that you have everything you need. You'll want to have your fully cooked bone-in ham ready, along with the mouthwatering glaze ingredients like brown sugar, pineapple juice, and Jack Daniel's whiskey.

Make certain your roasting pan is large enough to hold the ham comfortably, allowing the glaze to surround it as it bakes.

Once the oven reaches the desired temperature, you'll be ready to move on to scoring the ham surface, which helps the glaze penetrate and flavor the meat.

Step 2. Score the Ham Surface

Scoring the ham surface is a key step that not only enhances the flavor but also allows the glaze to seep into the meat, creating a deliciously caramelized exterior.

To start, place the ham on a sturdy cutting board, fat side up. Using a sharp knife, make shallow cuts in a diamond pattern across the surface, about one inch apart. Be careful not to cut too deep; you just want to score the fat, not the meat underneath. This will help the glaze penetrate better during cooking.

Once you've scored the entire surface, take a moment to admire your handiwork. The diamond shapes won't only give the ham a beautiful appearance but also provide more surface area for that sweet glaze.

If you'd like, you can sprinkle a little brown sugar on top of the scored areas for extra sweetness before the glaze is applied. This little touch can make a big difference in the final flavor.

Scoring is a simple yet effective technique that elevates your holiday ham from ordinary to extraordinary, ensuring a festive centerpiece that everyone will love.

Step 3. Apply Glaze Generously

Now it's time to apply the glaze generously to your beautifully scored ham. Start by giving the glaze a good stir to combine all those delicious flavors. Using a basting brush, coat the entire surface of the ham, making certain to get into those lovely score marks. This is where the flavor really seeps in, creating a mouthwatering crust.

Don't be shy—make certain every inch is covered in that rich, sticky glaze.

Next, take a moment to enjoy the aroma wafting through your kitchen; it's a sign of the good times ahead. If you have extra glaze left in the bowl, don't let it go to waste! You can reserve it for basting during the cooking process to keep the flavors vibrant and intense.

For an added touch, arrange pineapple rings and maraschino cherries on top of the ham, securing them with toothpicks if needed. This not only looks beautiful but also adds an extra layer of sweetness.

Step 4. Bake for 2 Hours

With the glaze beautifully applied, it's time to bake the ham for about 2 hours. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) if you haven't done so already.

Place the ham in a large roasting pan, making sure it sits flat for even cooking. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out while it bakes.

Every 30 minutes, take a moment to baste the ham with the glaze. This not only keeps it moist but also helps develop that shiny, caramelized exterior you're looking for.

As the ham bakes, the sweet aroma will fill your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere for everyone.

After 2 hours, check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. You want it to reach at least 140°F (60°C) for ideal warmth and flavor. If it's not there yet, give it a little more time.

Once it's done, carefully remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes. This resting period is essential as it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is juicy and delicious.

Enjoy the anticipation of serving this mouthwatering dish!

Step 5. Glaze and Rest Before Serving

Once you've baked the ham to perfection, it's time to brush on that luscious glaze. Start by mixing together your brown sugar, pineapple juice, Jack Daniel's whiskey, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and cinnamon in a bowl. This sweet and tangy mixture will elevate your ham to new heights.

Using a basting brush, generously apply the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get into any nooks and crannies. You'll want to reserve some glaze for later basting.

Pop the ham back in the oven for an additional 20-30 minutes, basting every 10 minutes. This will create a beautiful caramelized crust that's simply irresistible.

Once the ham is out of the oven, let it rest for about 15 minutes. This step is vital as it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is juicy and flavorful.

When you're ready to serve, slice the ham and arrange it on a platter. Don't forget to garnish with pineapple rings and maraschino cherries for that festive touch. Your guests will be thrilled, and you'll have a stunning centerpiece for your holiday feast! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making This Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Jack Daniel's Glazed Ham, focus on maintaining the right temperature and timing throughout the cooking process. Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. This moderate temperature guarantees that your ham heats evenly, preventing any dry spots.

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 140°F for perfect warmth.

Don't forget to baste your ham every 20-30 minutes with the glaze. This not only enriches the flavor but also helps create that mouth-watering caramelized exterior. For an extra kick, simmer the glaze a bit longer before applying it; this thickens the sauce and enhances its taste.

Presentation matters too! Arrange pineapple rings and maraschino cherries on top of the ham before baking. They'll caramelize beautifully, making your dish look even more inviting.

Lastly, after taking the ham out of the oven, let it rest for about 15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, guaranteeing every slice remains juicy and flavorful.

Follow these tips, and you'll impress everyone at your gathering with a delicious, beautifully glazed ham!