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Ham in a Cherry, Cola, and Pineapple Glaze: A Sweet and Savory Delight

The scent always takes me back. It’s Christmas Eve, and the whole house hums with anticipation. While the sugar cookies and gingerbread men held their charm, it was the aroma of my grandmother’s glazed ham that truly signified the holiday’s arrival. The sweet and tangy glaze, bubbling around the edges of a perfectly cooked ham, promised a feast unlike any other. It wasn’t just a meal; it was a warm hug from the past, a reminder of family, laughter, and traditions passed down through generations. Now, I’ve put my own spin on that timeless classic, adding a little pizzazz and a tropical twist to grandma’s classic recipe.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Yield: 1 ham
Dietary Type: Not Specified

Ingredients

4-6 lbs ham
15 cloves
10 maraschino cherries, halved
1/4 cup cherry juice
1/4 – 1/2 cup cola
1 teaspoon prepared mustard
6 slices pineapple, chunked
1/4 cup apple juice
1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon jalapeño ground pepper
2 tablespoons brown sugar

Equipment Needed

Crock pot
Medium bowl
Toothpicks
Spoon or brush

Instructions

Begin by thoroughly washing the ham under cold water. This removes any excess salt that may be clinging to the surface, ensuring a more balanced flavor in the final dish.
Place the ham in your crock pot with the cut side facing down. This position helps to keep the ham moist as it cooks and allows the flavorful juices to circulate more evenly.
Take the cloves and gently insert them all over the surface of the ham. The cloves provide a warm, aromatic spice that infuses the meat with a rich depth of flavor.
Cut the maraschino cherries and pineapple slices in half. This makes them easier to attach to the ham and helps them release their flavors more effectively. Then, using toothpicks, secure the cherry and pineapple pieces onto the ham. Space them evenly to create a visually appealing and flavorful coating.
Set your crock pot to the “warm” setting and cook the ham for 4 hours. This initial slow cooking process will gently release the water content within the ham, creating a moist and tender base for the glaze.
After 4 hours, carefully drain and discard the water that has accumulated in the crock pot. This step removes any excess saltiness and allows the glaze to penetrate the ham more effectively.
In a medium bowl, prepare the glaze by combining the cherry juice, cola, prepared mustard, apple juice, brown sugar, and ground jalapeño pepper. Whisk all the ingredients together until the brown sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
Place the glaze in the refrigerator to chill. Cooling the sauce down will allow it to slightly thicken to help adhere to the ham during cooking.
Once chilled, pour the glaze over the ham in the crock pot, ensuring that it coats the entire surface evenly. Use a spoon or brush to spread the glaze around, reaching into all the crevices and ensuring a generous coating.
Turn the crock pot to the “low” setting and continue cooking the ham for another 4 hours.
Keep in mind that crock pots can vary in temperature, so you might need to adjust the setting to “high” to maintain a steady cooking temperature. Regularly baste the ham with the glaze every 30-45 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful throughout the cooking process.
Once the cooking time is complete, your Ham in Cherry, Cola, and Pineapple Glaze is ready to serve. It should be warmed to a minimum of 145°F.

Expert Tips & Tricks

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of bourbon or rum to the glaze. The alcohol will cook off during the process, leaving behind a subtle warmth and complexity.
If you prefer a thicker glaze, you can simmer it in a saucepan on the stove for a few minutes before pouring it over the ham. This will reduce the sauce and concentrate the flavors.
To prevent the ham from drying out, consider placing a few slices of apple or onion in the bottom of the crock pot before adding the ham. These will release moisture as they cook, keeping the ham nice and juicy.
If you want a more intense smoky flavor, use a smoked ham instead of a regular one. This will add a whole new dimension to the dish.
Make the glaze up to 2 days in advance and store, covered, in the refrigerator.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Ham in Cherry, Cola, and Pineapple Glaze is a show-stopping centerpiece for any meal. Serve it hot, carved into thin slices, and accompanied by your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 2-3 months.

To reheat, thaw the ham in the refrigerator overnight and then bake it in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	853.3 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	237 g	28%
Total Fat	26.4 g	40%
Saturated Fat	8.8 g	43%
Cholesterol	236.3 mg	78%
Sodium	6909.1 mg	287%
Total Carbohydrate	48.3 g	16%
Dietary Fiber	4 g	15%
Sugars	39 g	155%
Protein	102.9 g	205%

Variations & Substitutions

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce to the glaze.
If you don’t have cola on hand, you can substitute it with root beer or Dr. Pepper for a similar flavor profile.
For a more tropical twist, use mango or papaya chunks instead of pineapple.
If you are watching your sugar intake, you can use a sugar substitute in the glaze, but be aware that this may alter the taste and texture slightly.
Add a dash of liquid smoke for a campfire touch.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a bone-in ham for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use a bone-in ham, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure that the ham is heated through.

Q: Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of a crock pot?
A: Yes, you can bake the ham in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C). Cover it with foil for the first half of the cooking time, then remove the foil and baste with the glaze every 30 minutes until done.

Q: How do I know when the ham is fully cooked?
A: The ham is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone.

Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
A: Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but you may need to add a little extra sugar to the glaze to compensate for the lack of sweetness in the fresh cherries.

Q: What side dishes go well with this glazed ham?
A: Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green bean casserole, and a fresh salad are all excellent choices to serve alongside this glazed ham.

Final Thoughts

This Ham in a Cherry, Cola, and Pineapple Glaze is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create lasting memories around the table. The combination of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors is sure to delight your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the process, and prepare to enjoy a truly unforgettable meal. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations and substitutions to make it your own. And most importantly, don’t forget to share your culinary creations with the world. Bon appétit!

Ham…. Ham in a Cherry, Cola and Pineapple Glaze Recipe