Description
Sweet, juicy, and effortlessly tender, this Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham is a classic comfort dish made simple. Slow-cooked in a sticky glaze of brown sugar, honey, and pineapple juice, the ham absorbs layers of sweet-savory flavor while staying perfectly moist. It’s an ideal centerpiece for holidays, family dinners, or anytime you want a no-stress main dish that tastes like you worked all day.
Introduction
This recipe is proof that impressive meals don’t have to be complicated. With just a handful of ingredients and a slow cooker doing all the work, you get a beautifully caramelized ham infused with tropical sweetness and warm spice. The pineapple not only adds flavor but helps tenderize the meat, creating slices that practically melt in your mouth.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or planning leftovers for sandwiches and breakfasts, this ham delivers every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Minimal prep, maximum flavor
Perfect for holidays or special gatherings
Sweet glaze that caramelizes beautifully
Hands-off slow cooker method
Feeds a crowd with ease
Ingredients
For the Ham
1 (6–8 lb) fully cooked spiral-cut ham
1 cup brown sugar
1 (20 oz) can pineapple slices, juice reserved
½ cup honey
¼ teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Slow Cooker
Lightly spray the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Add the Ham
Place the ham flat-side down into the crock pot.
Build the Flavor
Pour the pineapple juice evenly over the ham. Arrange the pineapple slices over the top and along the sides.
Sweeten the Glaze
Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the ham, then drizzle the honey on top. If using, lightly sprinkle with ground cloves.
Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours, until the ham is heated through and the glaze becomes rich and caramelized.
Baste for Best Results
Spoon the juices over the ham every hour to deepen flavor and keep it moist.
Serve
Carefully remove the ham, slice, and serve with the sweet pineapple glaze from the slow cooker.
Tips for Best Results
Use low heat only—high heat can dry out the ham
Basting enhances both flavor and appearance
If ham is too large, gently trim or tent edges with foil
Let rest 10 minutes before slicing for juicier cuts
Variations
Add a splash of orange juice for citrus depth
Mix Dijon mustard into the honey for sweet-savory contrast
Use crushed pineapple for a thicker glaze
Add cinnamon or nutmeg for holiday warmth
Storage Tips
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freeze sliced ham with glaze for up to 2 months
Reheat gently with a splash of pineapple juice
Serving Suggestions
Serve with scalloped potatoes or mashed potatoes
Pair with green beans, roasted carrots, or glazed carrots
Use leftovers for sandwiches, omelets, or fried rice
FAQs
Is the ham already cooked?
Yes—this recipe reheats and flavors a fully cooked ham.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Reheat gently in the slow cooker with extra glaze.
Can I skip the cloves?
Yes. They’re optional and add warmth, not required.
Conclusion
Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham is the kind of recipe that earns a permanent place in your rotation. Sweet, tender, and incredibly easy, it delivers classic comfort with almost no effort—exactly the kind of dish that brings people back for seconds.