Table of Contents: Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham

Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham

Remember the joy of a perfectly cooked ham gracing the holiday table? The aroma filling the house, the tender slices, and the delighted faces of family and friends? Now imagine achieving that same magic without spending hours in the kitchen. This Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham recipe delivers all the flavor and tradition, with a fraction of the effort.

It’s a game-changer for busy hosts and anyone who wants to savor the season, not stress over it. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy holiday ham recipes and a delicious glazed ham slow cooker option.

This isn’t just another ham recipe; it’s a shortcut to a centerpiece-worthy meal. The slow cooker works its magic, infusing the ham with a luscious, sweet, and tangy glaze. The combination of brown sugar and pineapple creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and festive.

Whether you’re hosting a large gathering, enjoying a cozy family dinner, or even looking for a surprisingly simple way to elevate a weeknight meal, this pineapple ham is the answer. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and the best part? You can set it and forget it, freeing you up to enjoy the company of your loved ones.

This recipe is especially wonderful for those who, like many of us, appreciate a little help in the kitchen during the busy holiday season. It’s a reliable, foolproof method for a beautifully glazed ham slow cooker experience, and it consistently delivers a moist, flavorful result. Forget the fuss of traditional roasting – this Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham is about to become your new go-to!

Alternate Names & Variations

This recipe goes by many names! You might also find it referred to as Slow Cooker Pineapple Glazed Ham, Crock Pot Ham with Pineapple, or simply, Ham with Brown Sugar Pineapple Glaze. For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of ground cloves or a dash of cayenne pepper to the glaze.

Some variations also include a splash of orange juice or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added depth of flavor. If you’re looking for other holiday ham recipes, consider a maple-mustard glazed ham for a different, equally delicious twist.

Ingredients: Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham

* 1 Ham pre-cooked, spiral cut – bone-in or boneless (approximately 5-7 pounds), either will work
* 3 ½ cups brown sugar, packed
* ½ cup Raw natural Honey
* 1 20 oz can pineapple tidbits or chunks – do not drain

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ham: Remove the ham from its packaging and discard any plastic or netting. If your ham has a thick rind, you can score it lightly in a diamond pattern. This helps the glaze penetrate the ham.
2. Create the Glaze: In a large bowl, combine the packed brown sugar and raw natural honey. Stir well until fully incorporated and a smooth paste forms.
3. Add the Pineapple: Gently fold in the entire can of pineapple tidbits or chunks (including the juice!) into the brown sugar and honey mixture. The pineapple juice is key to creating a beautiful, flavorful glaze.

4. Glaze the Ham (First Layer): Place the ham in your slow cooker, cut-side down. Pour about half of the pineapple-brown sugar glaze evenly over the ham, ensuring it gets into all the crevices of the spiral cut.
5. Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours, or on HIGH for 2-3 hours. How long does it take to cook a ham in a Crock Pot? It depends on your slow cooker and the size of the ham. The goal is to heat the ham through and allow the glaze to caramelize.
6. Baste and Glaze (Second Layer): After the initial cooking time, carefully remove the lid. Baste the ham with the remaining glaze from the slow cooker.

7. Final Cook: Return the lid to the slow cooker and continue cooking for another 30-60 minutes, allowing the glaze to become sticky and beautifully browned.
8. Rest and Serve: Turn off the slow cooker and let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham. Serve warm and enjoy!

Recipe Card Block (Quick Reference)

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time (Low): 4-6 hours
Cook Time (High): 2-3 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes – 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Approximate Calories: 350-450 per serving (depending on ham and serving size)

Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

This Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham recipe works because the slow cooker’s consistent, low heat gently warms the pre-cooked ham, preventing it from drying out. The brown sugar and honey create a rich, sweet base for the glaze, while the pineapple adds a delightful tang and moisture. The pineapple juice also helps to tenderize the ham further.

This is truly easy comfort food for family dinners and holiday gatherings. What kind of ham is best for slow cooking? A spiral-cut, pre-cooked ham is ideal. The spiral cut allows the glaze to penetrate deeply, and the pre-cooking ensures the ham is safe and ready to heat through. Bone-in or boneless both work well, but a bone-in ham will generally have more flavor. Don’t be afraid to experiment with adding a little bit of Dijon mustard to the glaze for a savory counterpoint to the sweetness!

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Leftover Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To prevent the ham from drying out, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.

You can also freeze leftover ham for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen ham will keep for up to 2-3 months.

When reheating, add a splash of pineapple juice or water to the ham to help retain moisture. Reheat in a 325°F (160°C) oven until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid drying it out. This pineapple ham also makes fantastic sandwiches, omelets, or additions to soups and casseroles!

People Also Ask: Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham

How do you make brown sugar pineapple ham in a Crock Pot?

Making this Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham is incredibly simple! You start by combining packed brown sugar and honey, then folding in a can of pineapple tidbits (with the juice!). This glaze is then generously applied to a pre-cooked, spiral-cut ham placed in your slow cooker.

Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, basting with the glaze during the last 30-60 minutes. The slow cooker does all the work, resulting in a tender, flavorful ham with a beautiful caramelized glaze. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious ham without the hassle of traditional roasting.

What kind of ham is best for slow cooking?

A spiral-cut, fully cooked (pre-cooked) ham is the best choice for slow cooking. The spiral cut allows the delicious glaze to seep into every slice, maximizing flavor. Because it’s already cooked, you’re simply reheating and infusing it with the sweet and tangy flavors of the brown sugar and pineapple. You can use either a bone-in or boneless ham, but a bone-in ham often provides a richer, more savory flavor. Just ensure the ham is labeled as “fully cooked” for safe and convenient slow cooking.

How do you create a good glaze for ham?

A good glaze for ham needs to balance sweetness, tanginess, and a touch of depth. This recipe achieves that perfectly with brown sugar and honey as the base. The pineapple juice adds the necessary tang and moisture, while the pineapple chunks contribute to the overall flavor and texture. You can also enhance the glaze with a pinch of ground cloves, a dash of cinnamon, or even a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for a more complex flavor profile. The key is to create a glaze that complements the natural saltiness of the ham.

How long does it take to cook a ham in a Crock Pot?

The cooking time for a Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham depends on your slow cooker and the size of the ham. Generally, you’ll want to cook it on LOW for 4-6 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours. The ham is already cooked, so you’re primarily reheating it and allowing the glaze to caramelize. Always check the internal temperature of the ham with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 140°F (60°C) before serving.

Conclusion: Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham

So there you have it – the easiest, most delicious way to enjoy a classic ham! This Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham is a true lifesaver, especially during the busy holiday season. Don’t be intimidated by the idea of cooking a ham; this recipe makes it foolproof. I encourage you to give it a try and experience the magic for yourself.

I’d love to hear how it turns out! Share your photos and comments below, and let me know if you made any fun variations. Happy cooking, and happy holidays!