Crock Pot Brown Sugar Ham with Pineapple

This Crock Pot Brown Sugar Ham with Pineapple is a sweet and savory dish that’s perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or even a special weeknight dinner. Slow-cooked to perfection, this ham is infused with the rich flavors of brown sugar, pineapple, and a blend of warm spices, making it incredibly tender and juicy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is effortless and requires minimal prep, making it perfect for busy days. The crock pot does all the work, ensuring the ham is cooked evenly while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The combination of pineapple and brown sugar gives the ham a delightful glaze, adding a sweet, caramelized touch that complements the savory meat perfectly.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Bone-in or boneless ham
• Brown sugar
• Pineapple slices (with juice)
• Honey (optional)
• Dijon mustard
• Cloves (optional)
• Ground cinnamon (optional)
• Ground nutmeg (optional)

Directions

1. Place the ham in the crock pot.
2. Sprinkle the brown sugar over the ham.
3. Arrange the pineapple slices on top and pour the pineapple juice over the ham.
4. Add honey and Dijon mustard, if using.
5. Sprinkle with cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg for extra warmth and spice.
6. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until heated through and tender.
7. Baste the ham occasionally with the juices from the crock pot.
8. Once done, remove from the crock pot, let it rest for 10 minutes, then slice and serve.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 8-10 people.

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 4-6 hours (on low heat)
• Total time: 4 hours 10 minutes – 6 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy-sweet combination.
• Maple Flavor: Substitute honey with maple syrup for a richer glaze.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for a more savory profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave or oven at 300°F until heated through. Add a splash of water or pineapple juice to retain moisture.

FAQs

How do I know when the ham is done?

The ham should reach an internal temperature of 140°F for pre-cooked ham or 160°F for uncooked ham.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pineapple works well, but you may need to add extra liquid like pineapple juice or water.

Should I use bone-in or boneless ham?

Both work, but bone-in ham tends to be more flavorful.

Can I cook the ham on high heat?

Yes, cook on high for 2-3 hours, but low heat yields a juicier ham.

What type of mustard works best?

Dijon mustard adds a tangy depth, but yellow mustard works in a pinch.

Can I omit the brown sugar?

Yes, but the glaze will be less sweet.

How can I make the glaze thicker?

Remove the ham and simmer the juices on the stove until reduced.

Can I use this recipe for a spiral-cut ham?

Yes, but be careful not to overcook as spiral-cut hams tend to dry out faster.

Is it necessary to baste the ham?

Basting helps infuse the ham with flavor, but it’s optional.

What sides pair well with this ham?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad complement the dish nicely.

Conclusion

This Crock Pot Brown Sugar Ham with Pineapple is a foolproof recipe that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. Perfect for holidays or any special meal, it offers a sweet and savory combination that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy tender, juicy ham with minimal effort and maximum flavor!

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