This Crockpot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Recipe is an easy way to prepare a holiday-worthy main dish without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker gently warms the ham while the brown sugar, honey, and pineapple create a rich glaze, making it an excellent choice for Easter, Christmas, Sunday dinners, or family celebrations.
The ham stays tender and juicy as it cooks, while the sweet pineapple and caramelized brown sugar blend into a glossy coating. Every slice is coated with just the right amount of sweetness, making this recipe a comforting centerpiece for any special meal.
Why You’ll Reach for This Recipe Again
This slow cooker ham is wonderfully hands-off, giving you more time to prepare side dishes or spend time with family while it cooks. With only a few ingredients, it delivers impressive results without complicated steps.
It’s also easy to serve for both small gatherings and holiday meals. Since the ham is already cooked, the crockpot simply warms it through while infusing every slice with the sweet glaze.
Ingredient Notes & Easy Substitutions
- Spiral-Cut Ham: A pre-cooked spiral ham allows the glaze to seep between the slices for better flavor. Both bone-in and boneless work well.
- Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar creates a rich caramel glaze, while dark brown sugar adds a deeper molasses flavor.
- Raw Honey: Honey adds natural sweetness and helps create a glossy finish.
- Pineapple: Use canned pineapple tidbits or chunks with the juice for extra moisture and flavor.
- Optional Spices: A pinch of ground cloves or cinnamon can add extra warmth if desired.
Crockpot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Recipe
Equipment
- Large crockpot (at least 6-quarts)
- Measuring Cups
Ingredients
- 1 Pre-cooked spiral-cut ham bone-in or boneless
- 3 1/2 cups Brown sugar
- 1/2 cup Raw natural honey
- 1 20 oz Can pineapple tidbits or chunks (do not drain)
Instructions
- Spread 2 cups of brown sugar evenly on the bottom of a large crockpot (at least 6-quarts).
- Place the ham on top of the brown sugar. Gently open the slices with your hands.
- Pour the honey evenly over the ham.
- Add the pineapple chunks (along with the juice) around the sides and some on top of the ham.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 1/2 cups of brown sugar over the top of the ham, making sure it’s evenly covered.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 3 1/2 to 4 hours.
Notes
- Make sure your ham is pre-cooked and spiral-cut for best results. Both bone-in and boneless work fine.
- The juice from the canned pineapple adds extra flavor and helps keep the ham moist.
- If your crockpot runs hot, start checking the ham at 3 hours to avoid overcooking. The ham is ready when it’s heated through and the sugar has caramelized.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 595 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 49 g |
| Protein | 41 g |
| Fat | 24 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 45 g |
| Sodium | 1,720 mg |
Small Mistakes That Affect Results
- Using a Small Slow Cooker: The ham should fit comfortably so the lid closes tightly.
- Skipping the Pineapple Juice: The juice helps create a flavorful glaze and keeps the ham moist.
- Not Separating the Slices: Opening the spiral cuts allows the glaze to reach deeper into the ham.
- Cooking on High Heat: Low heat helps warm the ham evenly without drying it out.
- Removing the Lid Often: Each time the lid is lifted, heat escapes and increases the cooking time.
- Overcooking: Since the ham is already cooked, extended cooking can make it less juicy.
Delicious Variations You Should Try
- Maple Glaze: Replace the honey with pure maple syrup.
- Cherry Version: Add a handful of maraschino cherries during the last hour of cooking.
- Spiced Ham: Sprinkle in ground cloves, cinnamon, or allspice.
- Orange Twist: Add orange zest and a splash of orange juice to the glaze.
- Brown Sugar Bourbon: Stir a small amount of bourbon into the glaze for extra depth.
- Mustard Glaze: Mix a spoonful of Dijon mustard with the honey for a sweet and tangy finish.
More Main Course Recipes You’ll Enjoy
Make-Ahead and Storage Guide
- Make Ahead: Assemble the ham in the crockpot insert the night before and refrigerate until ready to cook.
- Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover ham in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer Storage: Freeze sliced ham with some of the glaze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm gently in the microwave or covered in the oven with a little glaze to keep it moist.
- Freshness Tip: Store the ham with some of the cooking juices to help prevent it from drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a boneless ham instead of bone-in?
Yes. Both work well, though bone-in ham tends to stay slightly juicier during slow cooking. - Do I need to add any water to the crockpot?
No. The pineapple juice, honey, and natural juices from the ham provide enough moisture. - Should I rinse the ham before cooking?
No. Simply remove the packaging and place the ham directly into the slow cooker. - Can I use pineapple rings instead of chunks?
Yes. Pineapple rings work just as well and also make an attractive presentation. - How do I know when the ham is ready?
The ham should be thoroughly heated, and the glaze should be melted and lightly caramelized around the edges. - Can I baste the ham while it cooks?
Yes. Spoon some of the glaze over the top once or twice during cooking if desired, but avoid lifting the lid too often. - Can I make this recipe for a larger gathering?
Yes. Simply use a larger spiral-cut ham that fits your slow cooker and adjust the cooking time if needed. - Why is my glaze thinner than expected?
The pineapple juice naturally thins the glaze during cooking. As the ham rests for a few minutes before serving, the glaze will thicken slightly.
hi there,
The Freshman Cook started as a place to keep track of recipes I wanted to make again. Somewhere along the way, it grew into a collection of meals that friends requested, desserts that disappeared too quickly, and weeknight dinners that made life a little easier.
know more
