Chestnut and Squash crackers

A nostalgic centerpiece with a sweet, tangy glaze and classic garnishes—perfect for Easter or any celebratory meal.
Ingredients
1 (6 to 8 lb) fully cooked boneless ham
1½ cups packed dark brown sugar
1 (20 oz) can pineapple slices, drained (reserve ¾ cup juice)
½ cup maraschino cherries, plus ¼ cup juice from the jar
2 tbsp grainy or Dijon mustard
¼ cup apple cider vinegar
1½ tsp paprika
½ tsp ground cinnamon
â…› tsp ground cloves
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ham
Let the ham rest at room temperature for 1 hour before baking.
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
Score the top and sides of the ham in a diamond pattern, about â…›-inch deep.
Line a roasting pan with foil and place a roasting rack inside. Set the ham scored-side up on the rack and pour ½ inch of water into the bottom of the pan.
Cover tightly with foil and bake for 12 minutes per pound—about 1 hr 15 min to 1 hr 35 min total.
2. Make the Glaze
In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine:
Brown sugar
Reserved pineapple and cherry juices
Mustard
Vinegar
Paprika, cinnamon, and cloves
Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle boil. Cook for 15–18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Glaze & Decorate
Remove the ham from the oven and increase oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
Brush one-third of the glaze over the ham.
Using toothpicks, attach pineapple slices all over the ham, then place a cherry in the center of each ring and secure with more toothpicks.
Return ham to the oven, uncovered, and bake for 15 minutes.
Repeat the glazing process twice more—brushing with one-third of the glaze each time, baking 15 minutes between each glaze.
Let the ham rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
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- Pro Tip
For the best presentation, trim pineapple slices to fit curved edges of the ham. This helps them lay flat and stick better during baking, giving you that beautiful, glossy, picture-perfect look every time.
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