Name: The Best Pineapple Glaze Recipes: 5 Astonishing ways
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (15.25 ounce) can sliced pineapple, drained with juice reserved; 1 (4-ounce) jar maraschino cherries, drained; 1 cup brown sugar

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Introduction: A Tangy Tropical Twist

Imagine drizzling a glossy, golden pineapple glaze over your favorite dish – the way it glistens and the aroma of tangy-sweet tropical fruit fills your kitchen. Pineapple glaze is all about big flavor: it’s sweet and fruity with a zingy tartness, like a tropical vacation for your palate. A fun fact: did you know pineapples were once a symbol of hospitality? In colonial times, pineapples were so sought-after that people would rent a pineapple for a day to display at parties as a sign of welcome – talk about a special (and expensive) treat! Thankfully, today we can enjoy pineapples in countless affordable ways, and one of the most delicious is in a pineapple glaze recipe.

I remember being skeptical the first time I made pineapple glaze – could something so simple really transform my meal? It absolutely did. The ham I glazed turned out gorgeously caramelized and bursting with tangy sweetness. This glaze is special because it brings a taste of the tropics to both savory and sweet dishes. Why should you try it? Because it’s incredibly easy to make, uses everyday ingredients, and instantly elevates anything from holiday hams to simple weeknight chicken or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

If you loved our Honey-Orange Glaze on chicken wings last summer, you’ll adore this pineapple version – think of it as that recipe’s tropical cousin. Grab a pineapple (or a can of juice) and let’s dive into these astonishing pineapple glaze ideas together. Get ready to wow your taste buds and bring a little sunshine to your table!

What Is Pineapple Glaze?

So, what exactly is pineapple glaze? (Hint: we’re not talking about giving a pineapple a shiny coat of paint!) In plain terms, pineapple glaze is a sweet, sticky sauce or coating made primarily from pineapple (usually pineapple juice or crushed pineapple) and sugar, simmered until it thickens into a luscious glaze. Picture the glossy sauce you baste on a ham decorated with pineapple rings and cherries – that’s a pineapple glaze. It’s the edible love-child of a sauce and a jelly, bringing tangy-sweet tropical flavor to anything it touches.

In my kitchen, I like to call pineapple glaze my “secret weapon.” I once caught my husband sneaking spoonfuls from the pot – proof that this stuff is irresistible! They say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and I’m pretty sure a good pineapple glaze could seal the deal. (Don’t worry, it works on everyone else too, not just husbands!) This glaze has a playful personality: it can be elegant on a holiday roast or fun drizzled over ice cream. It’s versatile, a little quirky, and 100% delicious.

If you’ve never tried making it, don’t be intimidated – it’s easier than it sounds. With just a few ingredients and a bit of stirring, you’ll have liquid gold ready to pour over your next meal. Go ahead and give it a whirl. One taste, and you’ll wonder why you didn’t make pineapple glaze sooner!

Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Glaze

Wondering what makes this pineapple glaze so special? Here are a few irresistible reasons to fall in love with it:

Unforgettable Tropical Flavor: The combination of sweet pineapple and tangy notes creates a flavor punch that’s unique. It’s like sunshine in sauce form. If you’ve ever enjoyed a sweet-and-sour dish, pineapple glaze takes it to the next level with real tropical fruitiness.
Sweet & Savory Versatility: This glaze plays double-duty. Brush it on savory meats like ham, chicken, or pork chops for a caramelized, glossy finish, or drizzle it over desserts (ice cream, cheesecake, you name it) for an instant gourmet touch. One day you’re using it on Easter ham, the next you’re spooning it over pound cake – it’s that versatile.
Better Than Store-Bought (and Budget-Friendly): Sure, you could scour the stores wondering where to buy pineapple glaze, but making it at home is so much better. You control the ingredients (no mystery preservatives here!), at a fraction of the cost of premade glazes. Homemade pineapple glaze uses simple pantry staples and fresh juice, giving you more flavor for your buck.
Easy, Quick, and Foolproof: You don’t need to be a chef to whip this up. In about 15 minutes, with minimal steps, you’ll have a thick, beautiful glaze. No fancy techniques – just mix, simmer, and stir. It’s a beginner-friendly recipe that delivers pro-level results every time.
Elevates Every Dish: Pineapple glaze doesn’t just add flavor; it transforms your dishes. It locks in moisture, adds a lovely shine, and gives even ordinary weekday dinners a gourmet feel. That plain roasted chicken or simple baked cake becomes something special with a coating of this golden glaze. It’s the secret to making meals memorable.

By now, your mouth is probably watering. Once you taste this glaze, you’ll see why I keep a jar in my fridge at all times. Give it a try – you’ll be reaching for this recipe whenever you want to add a little “wow” factor to your cooking!

How to Make This Pineapple Glaze

Making pineapple glaze is straightforward and quick. Here’s how to do it:

Quick Overview

In a nutshell, you mix up pineapple juice with a few pantry staples, simmer it on the stove for about 10–15 minutes, and watch as it transforms into a thick, shiny glaze. The process is super simple (stir, simmer, thicken, done!) and the result is a sweet-tangy sauce that tastes like pure tropical bliss.

Key Ingredients

Ingredient	Purpose in the Glaze
Pineapple juice (or crushed pineapple)	The star flavor base – provides natural sweetness, tang, and moisture.
Brown sugar (or honey)	Sweetens the glaze and helps it caramelize, adding richness (molasses notes from brown sugar or floral sweetness from honey).
Dijon mustard (optional)	Adds a tangy depth and subtle savory note, balancing the sweetness (a classic addition for ham glaze).
Vinegar or lemon juice (optional)	A little acidity brightens the glaze and balances the sweetness (e.g. apple cider vinegar works great).
Warm spices (cloves, ginger, cinnamon – optional)	A pinch of spice lends warmth and complexity; cloves are traditional in ham glazes, while ginger adds zingy heat.
Cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)	The thickening agent – helps the glaze achieve that perfect, clingy consistency that coats your ham or dessert.

Step-by-Step Instructions (Classic Pineapple Glaze)

Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, pour in 1 cup of pineapple juice. Add 1/2 cup of brown sugar (packed) and 1 tablespoon honey (if using, for extra shine). If you’re making a savory glaze (like for ham), also stir in 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of ground cloves or ginger (optional, for depth of flavor).
Heat and Stir: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture as it heats up, bringing it to a gentle simmer. The sugar will dissolve – make sure to stir frequently so nothing sticks or burns. As it simmers, enjoy the amazing aroma of sweet pineapple filling your kitchen!
Thicken the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water to make a slurry. Pour this slurry into the simmering pineapple mixture while stirring constantly. You’ll see the glaze start to thicken almost immediately. Continue to simmer for about 1–2 minutes, stirring, until the glaze is glossy and coats the back of a spoon. (Tip: If it gets too thick, you can whisk in a little extra juice to loosen it up.)
Finish and Cool: Remove the pan from heat. Be careful – the glaze will be very hot and sticky. Let it cool for a few minutes; it will thicken a bit more as it cools down. You should have a beautiful, amber-gold glaze that’s syrupy but spreadable.
Use or Store: Your pineapple glaze is ready to use! Brush it over a baked ham in the last 20 minutes of cooking, or spoon it over grilled chicken before serving. If using for desserts, you can drizzle it warm over cakes or let it cool and use it as a topping. Any leftovers can be cooled completely and stored in a jar in the fridge (more on storage later).

That’s all there is to it! With this basic pineapple glaze in hand, you’re ready to add tropical flavor to all kinds of dishes. Now let’s explore five astonishing ways to use and customize pineapple glaze!

5 Astonishing Pineapple Glaze Recipes

Pineapple Glaze for Ham (Classic)

Brushing a sweet pineapple glaze over a holiday ham. This is the classic pineapple glaze most people know and love. It gives ham a gorgeous glossy finish and caramelized edges. Combining pineapple, brown sugar, and spice creates an addictive sweet-tangy crust on the ham. If you’ve ever wondered how to make pineapple glaze for ham, this easy recipe will show you how to achieve that perfect holiday ham glaze.

Ingredients:

1 cup pineapple juice (100% juice, not syrup)
1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
2 tablespoons honey (for extra sticky sweetness)
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (or 3-4 whole cloves, remove before serving)
1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)

Instructions:

Mix Base: In a saucepan, combine the pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, vinegar, and ground cloves. Whisk everything together.
Simmer: Heat the saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a gentle boil and the sugar is dissolved.
Thicken: Stir the cornstarch into water to make a slurry, then pour this into the boiling mixture while stirring constantly. Reduce heat to medium-low and continue cooking for about 1-2 minutes as the glaze thickens. It should become glossy and be able to coat the back of a spoon.
Glaze the Ham: Brush the glaze all over your baked or smoked ham. If the ham is still in the oven, apply the glaze during the last 15-20 minutes of baking, brushing it on in a couple of layers for a nicely caramelized finish. You can also serve extra glaze on the side for drizzling at the table.

Pineapple Glaze for Grilled Chicken

Grilled chicken loves a good glaze, and this pineapple-soy concoction is perfect for a backyard BBQ twist. It has a slight teriyaki vibe, blending fruity sweetness with a savory note. Use it to baste chicken on the grill or as a finishing sauce – either way, it brings boring chicken to life with tropical flair.

Ingredients:

1 cup pineapple juice
1/3 cup brown sugar (or honey)
1/4 cup soy sauce (adds saltiness and depth)
2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional but adds great flavor)
1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (to thicken)

Instructions:

Prepare the Glaze: In a small saucepan, whisk together pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until it begins to simmer.
Thicken It Up: Stir the cornstarch and water together in a cup to form a slurry. Pour the slurry into the simmering sauce while stirring. Keep stirring as the glaze simmers for another 1-2 minutes, thickening up into a shiny sauce. Remove from heat.
Glaze the Chicken: Grill your chicken (breasts, thighs, or skewers) as you normally would, seasoning with a little salt and pepper. In the last few minutes of grilling, brush the pineapple glaze onto the chicken on both sides. The heat will caramelize the glaze on the chicken, creating a sticky, flavorful coating. (Tip: Avoid applying the glaze too early on the grill, to prevent burning the sugars.)
Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and brush on one more light coat of glaze for good measure. Serve extra warm glaze on the side as a dipping sauce if desired.

Pineapple Dessert Glaze (Easy Pineapple Glaze for Desserts)

A jar of homemade pineapple dessert topping, perfect for drizzling over sweets. When it comes to desserts, this easy pineapple glaze is a game-changer. Think of a buttery pineapple sauce that you can pour over ice cream, cheesecake, pancakes, or anything that needs a burst of tropical sweetness. It’s like the syrup you never knew you needed, bringing sunshine to every dessert.

Ingredients:

1 cup crushed pineapple (with the juice) – you can use canned crushed pineapple
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice (for brightness)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (adds a lovely aroma)
1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water
1 tablespoon butter (optional, for richness)

Instructions:

Combine and Cook: In a saucepan, combine the crushed pineapple (with its juice), sugar, and lemon juice. Bring this mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for about 5 minutes to soften the pineapple and dissolve the sugar.
Thicken the Sauce: Mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the bubbling pineapple mixture. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, for another 1-2 minutes as it thickens into a shiny, spoonable glaze.
Finish with Flavor: Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and the butter until the butter melts. These add extra flavor and a silky finish to the glaze.
Serve Warm or Cool: This dessert glaze can be used warm – drizzled straight from the pan over ice cream or sponge cake – or cooled to room temperature for a thicker, spreadable topping. It will firm up slightly as it cools.

Spicy Pineapple Glaze

If you love a little heat with your sweet, this spicy pineapple glaze will be your new obsession. It combines pineapple’s candy-like sweetness with a kick of chili – perfect for wings, shrimp, or tofu. This glaze has a sweet-and-spicy vibe similar to a Thai chili sauce, but with a tropical twist.

Ingredients:

1 cup pineapple juice
1/3 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons honey (helps it get nice and sticky)
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
1-2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (adjust to your heat preference; or use 1 teaspoon chili flakes for a milder heat)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional, for extra zing)
1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water

Instructions:

Mix & Simmer: In a saucepan, combine pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey, vinegar, sriracha, garlic, and ginger. Stir and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Let it bubble gently for about 3-4 minutes, stirring to dissolve the sugar and to let those spicy flavors infuse.
Thicken the Glaze: Give the cornstarch-water mixture a stir and then pour it into the simmering sauce. Stir continuously as the glaze thickens up, which should happen in a minute or two. When it’s glossy and slightly syrupy, remove it from the heat.
Use it: This spicy pineapple glaze is dynamite on crispy chicken wings (toss the fried or baked wings in the glaze to coat them). It’s also great brushed on grilled shrimp or pork skewers in the last couple minutes of grilling. You can even use it as a stir-fry sauce for a sweet-spicy pineapple chicken. Garnish your dish with some green onions or cilantro to really make the flavors pop.

Pineapple Glaze for Cakes or Pound Cake

Cakes and pound cakes get a major upgrade with this simple pineapple glaze drizzled on top. This glaze is more of an icing – no cooking required – and it sets into a sweet, tangy coating that soaks into the cake’s surface. It’s excellent on a buttery pound cake, angel food cake, or even muffins.

Ingredients:

1 cup powdered sugar (also called confectioners’ sugar)
2-3 tablespoons pineapple juice (fresh or from canned pineapple)
1 tablespoon melted butter (cooled slightly)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions:

Mix the Glaze: In a mixing bowl, pour in the pineapple juice and melted butter. Add the vanilla extract, if using. Gradually whisk in the powdered sugar, a little at a time, until you get a smooth, pourable glaze. If it seems too thick, add a tiny bit more juice; if too thin, add more powdered sugar. You’re aiming for a consistency like thick syrup that will slowly run off a spoon.
Glaze the Cake: Place your cooled cake (for example, a pound cake loaf or bundt) on a plate or cooling rack. Slowly pour or spoon the pineapple glaze over the top of the cake, letting it drizzle down the sides. You can use the back of the spoon to spread it gently. The glaze will set as it dries, creating a light sugary crust packed with pineapple flavor.
Serving Tip: For an extra-moist cake, you can poke small holes in the cake with a skewer before glazing, so some of the pineapple goodness seeps into the crumb. Let the glaze set for about 10-15 minutes, then slice and serve.

What to Serve Pineapple Glaze With

You’ve made a jar of lovely pineapple glaze – now, what should you put it on? The answer: almost anything that you want to give a sweet, tangy, tropical kick. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Ham & Pork: The classic use! Brush pineapple glaze on a baked ham for a beautiful caramelized finish. It’s also fantastic on pork chops, pork tenderloin, or a grilled pork steak. The glaze’s sweetness is perfect against pork’s saltiness.
Chicken & Poultry: From grilled chicken breasts to chicken wings, pineapple glaze makes a delicious lacquer. Toss fried or baked wings in warm pineapple glaze for a Hawaiian-inspired twist, or glaze a roasted turkey breast to add flavor and moisture.
Seafood: It might surprise you, but pineapple glaze pairs wonderfully with seafood. Brush it on salmon fillets or shrimp skewers in the last minutes of grilling – the sweetness complements the savory, briny flavor. Even scallops or mahi-mahi can get a glossy pineapple finish for a gourmet touch.
Vegetables: Use pineapple glaze to roast or grill veggies that enjoy a bit of sweetness. Carrots, sweet potatoes, or butternut squash can be tossed with a little glaze before roasting to enhance their natural sugars. Grilled veggie skewers (bell peppers, zucchini, and onions) can be brushed with the glaze for a shiny, flavorful finish.
Desserts & Breakfast: Beyond cakes and ice cream, try it on pancakes, waffles, or French toast as an alternative to maple syrup. Stir a spoonful into plain yogurt or oatmeal for a tropical breakfast twist. You can even drizzle it over a fruit salad or use it as a dip for coconut shrimp.
Drinks: Get creative – mix a tablespoon of pineapple glaze into sparkling water for a quick pineapple soda. It also works as a simple syrup in cocktails or mocktails (imagine a pineapple mojito or a tropical rum punch!).

From main courses to sweet treats (and even drinks), pineapple glaze is your ticket to a mini tropical vacation on a plate. Enjoy experimenting with it across your menu!

Top Tips for Perfecting Pineapple Glaze

Every cook has a few tricks up their sleeve. Here are my top tips to ensure your pineapple glaze comes out perfect every time:

Use Quality Pineapple: For the best flavor, use 100% pineapple juice (not diluted or with added sugar). If you have fresh pineapple, you can puree and strain it to use the juice. Fresh will taste brighter, while canned juice is very convenient and consistent. Avoid using the heavy syrup from canned pineapple – it can make the glaze overly sweet.
Balance Sweet and Tang: Taste your glaze as it cooks. If it’s too sweet, add a small splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon to perk it up. If it’s too tart, stir in an extra spoonful of sugar or honey. A tiny pinch of salt can also enhance the overall flavor.
Consistency Control: For a thicker glaze that really sticks, add a bit more cornstarch (try another 1/2 teaspoon) or simmer a few minutes longer to reduce it. For a thinner drizzle, stir in a few extra tablespoons of pineapple juice to loosen it up. Keep in mind it thickens slightly as it cools.
No Lumps: Always mix cornstarch with cold water to make a slurry before adding it to the hot liquid. Whisk the slurry in gradually while the glaze simmers. If you do see lumps, just keep stirring over low heat (or strain the finished glaze through a sieve) for a silky-smooth result.
Customize the Flavor: Think of the base recipe as a canvas. Feel free to add a dash of your favorite spice or extra ingredient. Love ginger? Grate some fresh ginger in. Want a smoky twist for barbecue? A pinch of smoked paprika can be nice. Making a dessert glaze? Skip the mustard and maybe add a drop of coconut extract for a piña-colada vibe. The beauty of homemade glaze is you can tweak it to suit your taste.
Make Ahead: Pineapple glaze can be made ahead – in fact, it might taste even better the next day once the flavors meld. If you prepare it in advance, let it cool and store it in the fridge (see below). When ready to use, reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring, until it loosens up and shines again.

Follow these tips and you’ll be glazing like a pro. Small details – from tasting and adjusting the balance to stirring that slurry just right – make all the difference. Happy glazing!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Made more pineapple glaze than you needed? No worries – it keeps well! Here’s how to store it and bring it back to life when you’re ready to use it again, all while preserving that great texture and flavor:

Refrigerator: Allow the pineapple glaze to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a clean jar or airtight container. Keep it in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for about 1 to 2 weeks. The high sugar content acts as a preservative. You might notice it thickens or gelatinizes a bit in the fridge (especially if you used cornstarch) – that’s normal.
Freezing: Yes, you can freeze pineapple glaze! Use a freezer-safe container, leaving a little space at the top for expansion, or pour the glaze into an ice cube tray to make handy portions. It will keep for about 2-3 months frozen. When you need some, pop out a cube or thaw the container overnight in the refrigerator. (Note: Sauces thickened with cornstarch can sometimes become a little watery upon thawing, but a gentle reheat and stir will bring it back together.)
Reheating: To reheat refrigerated or thawed glaze, warm it gently. On the stovetop, use a small saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until it loosens up and is pourable. In the microwave, heat in short 15-20 second bursts, stirring in between, until warm. If the glaze seems very thick, stir in a teaspoon or two of water or pineapple juice to restore a saucy consistency. Avoid boiling it again, as that can make it too thick or change the flavor. Once warmed, it’s ready to brush, drizzle, or pour as if it were freshly made.

By storing it properly and reheating with care, you can enjoy your pineapple glaze over multiple meals. (In fact, having a jar in the fridge means quick flavor is always at your fingertips!) Just remember to keep it sealed when storing, and always use a clean spoon to scoop out what you need to prevent any contamination. Happy glazing, even days later!