This holiday ham recipe takes a pre-cooked ham and elevates it with a homemade pineapple glaze that's the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. The multiple glazing steps ensure a beautiful caramelized exterior, while the classic pineapple and cherry decoration creates a stunning presentation worthy of your holiday table.

1. Step 1: Discard any included glaze packets - we're making our own superior glaze!

   Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove ham from packaging and discard any included glaze packets. Place ham cut-side down in a large roasting pan and cover loosely with aluminum foil.

2. Step 2: Since most hams are pre-cooked, we're just warming it through, not cooking it to a specific temperature.

   Bake the ham for 1 hour. This initial baking will warm the ham through before applying the glaze.

3. Step 3: The vinegar adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of the glaze.

   While the ham is baking, prepare the glaze. In a medium saucepan, combine pineapple juice, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, cinnamon, and apple cider vinegar.

4. Step 4: Make sure the sugar is fully dissolved for a smooth glaze.

   Bring the glaze mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has completely dissolved, about 5 minutes.

5. Step 5: The cornstarch thickens the glaze so it will adhere better to the ham.

   Once simmering, add the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water) to the glaze while whisking constantly. Continue to simmer for 2-3 minutes until the glaze has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon.

6. Step 6: The higher temperature helps caramelize the glaze.

   After the ham has baked for 1 hour, remove it from the oven and increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Carefully remove the foil and brush about 1/3 of the glaze all over the ham.

7. Step 7: Multiple layers of glaze create depth of flavor and a beautiful shine.

   Return the ham to the oven, uncovered, and bake for 15 minutes. Remove and brush with another 1/3 of the glaze. Return to the oven for another 15 minutes.

8. Step 8: This classic decoration adds both flavor and a festive appearance.

   Remove the ham once more and arrange pineapple rings around the ham, securing them with toothpicks if necessary. Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple ring. Brush the remaining glaze over the ham and pineapples.

9. Step 9: The glaze contains sugar which can burn quickly, so keep an eye on it.

   Return the ham to the oven for a final 15-20 minutes, until the glaze is caramelized and the pineapple rings are heated through. Watch carefully during this final bake to ensure the glaze doesn't burn.

10. Step 10: Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

    Remove from the oven and let the ham rest for 15 minutes before transferring to a serving platter. Remove toothpicks before serving.

11. Step 11: The ham can be served warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for buffet-style holiday meals.

    Spoon any glaze from the bottom of the roasting pan over the ham before serving. Slice thinly and serve warm or at room temperature.

Leftover ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It's delicious cold in sandwiches or reheated gently in the oven covered with foil. The ham bone can be saved to flavor soups or beans.