Crockpot Ham with Brown Sugar Pineapple Glaze – A Sweet and Savory Holiday Classic
There’s something magical about a slow-cooked ham that fills your home with the scent of caramelized sugar, juicy pineapple, and savory perfection. This Crockpot Ham with Brown Sugar Pineapple Glaze is not only a showstopper centerpiece for your holiday table but also one of the easiest recipes you’ll ever make. No fuss, no constant checking—just set it in your slow cooker and let the magic happen.
The sweet glaze made of brown sugar, pineapple juice, and Dijon mustard seeps into every slice, creating the perfect balance of flavor. Whether it’s Easter Sunday, Christmas dinner, or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe brings warmth and nostalgia straight to your plate.
Ingredients:
- 1 fully cooked spiral-sliced ham (6–8 lbs)
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Optional: maraschino cherries for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the ham: Unwrap the ham and place it cut-side down in your slow cooker. Trim it slightly if necessary to make it fit.
- Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, pineapple juice, Dijon mustard, cloves, honey, and melted butter until smooth.
- Add pineapples: Arrange pineapple slices over and around the ham, tucking some between slices. Pour the glaze evenly over the top.
- Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours, basting once or twice if possible, until heated through and tender.
- Caramelize the glaze (optional): For a sticky, restaurant-style finish, transfer the ham to a baking sheet and broil it for 3–5 minutes until the glaze bubbles and turns golden.
- Serve: Spoon extra glaze and pineapple pieces over the ham before serving.
Tips & Tricks
- For deeper flavor, add a splash of orange juice or maple syrup to the glaze.
- Spiral-cut hams absorb glaze better, but if you’re using a non-sliced ham, score the surface in a diamond pattern.
- You can prep the glaze a day in advance and refrigerate it.
Variations
- Honey Maple Glaze: Swap pineapple juice for apple cider and add ¼ cup maple syrup.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Citrus Twist: Add zest from one orange for a bright, tangy note.
Crockpot Ham with Brown Sugar Pineapple Glaze
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place ham cut-side down in slow cooker.
- Whisk together brown sugar, pineapple juice, mustard, cloves, honey, and butter.
- Arrange pineapple slices around ham and pour glaze on top.
- Cook on LOW for 4–6 hours until heated through.
- Optional: Broil for 3–5 minutes for caramelized glaze.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Crockpot Ham with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted green beans, or a fresh spinach salad. The sweetness of the glaze complements savory sides perfectly. It’s also fantastic served cold in sandwiches or diced into omelets the next day.
Storage Information
Let leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven with a drizzle of glaze to keep it moist. You can also freeze slices for up to 2 months—wrap them tightly in foil and place in freezer bags.
FAQ
- Can I use a boneless ham? Yes, but bone-in adds richer flavor.
- Can I cook it on HIGH? You can, but LOW ensures tender, juicy results.
- Do I need to add water? No—pineapple juice provides enough liquid for steaming and flavor.
History / Fun Facts
Glazed hams became popular in the U.S. during the 1920s, often symbolizing prosperity and celebration. Pineapple and brown sugar were common ingredients used in early holiday dishes, thanks to their exotic appeal and tropical sweetness. The pairing remains timeless, blending sweet island flavor with savory tradition.
