When it comes to effortless holiday meals or weekend family feasts, few dishes match the sweet and savory perfection of a Crock Pot brown sugar pineapple ham. With its melt-in-your-mouth texture, glossy caramelized glaze, and deep flavor, this ham recipe has earned its place as a beloved centerpiece at countless dinner tables.
Cooking it low and slow in a Crock Pot ensures tender, juicy slices every time, while the heavenly combination of brown sugar, pineapple, and warm spices creates a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why Crock Pot Ham is a Must-Try
Using a slow cooker for ham is more than just convenient—it produces a texture and flavor that's hard to replicate in the oven. The controlled heat slowly breaks down the meat's fibers, locking in moisture and allowing the glaze to seep into every slice. Plus, it frees up oven space during busy holidays.
Ingredients for Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
To achieve that perfect harmony of sweetness and spice, you’ll need:
Main Ingredients
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1 fully cooked bone-in ham (6 to 8 pounds)
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1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
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1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices in juice (reserve juice)
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1/4 cup honey
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2 tablespoons Dijon or yellow mustard
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1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
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1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for added warmth)
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Whole cloves (optional, for studding the ham)
How to Make Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
1. Prepare the Ham
Unwrap the ham and pat it dry with paper towels. If the ham has a thick rind or excess fat, trim it slightly, but leave a thin layer for moisture and flavor.
Score the surface in a diamond pattern if desired—this helps the glaze penetrate deeper and makes a beautiful presentation. Optionally, insert whole cloves into the intersections of the cuts for added aroma.
2. Arrange in the Crock Pot
Place a layer of pineapple slices on the bottom of the slow cooker. Set the ham flat-side down on top of the pineapple.
3. Make the Glaze
In a small saucepan (or mixing bowl), combine:
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Brown sugar
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Reserved pineapple juice
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Honey
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Mustard
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Ground cloves
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Cinnamon (if using)
Whisk until smooth. You can warm this mixture slightly for easier blending.
4. Pour and Layer
Pour the glaze mixture evenly over the ham, making sure it drizzles between the scored cuts. Arrange additional pineapple slices over and around the ham, securing them with toothpicks if needed.
5. Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) for a fully cooked ham. Baste occasionally with the juices from the bottom of the slow cooker for extra flavor.
Avoid overcooking—a fully cooked ham only needs reheating, not recooking.
6. Caramelize (Optional But Recommended)
For a sticky, caramelized finish, transfer the ham to a baking dish after cooking. Brush with some of the glaze and broil for 3–5 minutes until the surface bubbles and browns. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
Tips for the Perfect Crock Pot Ham
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Choose the right ham: Bone-in hams provide better flavor and moisture. Spiral-cut hams are convenient but can dry out faster—use extra glaze and baste frequently.
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Use pineapple in juice, not syrup: It offers a more natural sweetness and doesn’t overwhelm the brown sugar.
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Save the juices: The leftover glaze and juices in the Crock Pot can be thickened with cornstarch and served as a sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a range of sides:
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Creamy mashed potatoes
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Buttery green beans or asparagus
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Sweet potato casserole
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Cornbread or dinner rolls
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Macaroni and cheese
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Cranberry sauce for a tart contrast
For a lighter twist, try pairing with a citrus arugula salad or roasted Brussels sprouts.
Leftovers You'll Love
Ham is one of those rare dishes that tastes even better the next day. Use leftovers in:
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Ham and cheese breakfast casseroles
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Hearty ham and bean soup
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Ham fried rice
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Ham and Swiss sandwiches
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Quiche or omelets
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
Variations to Try
Maple Mustard Glaze
Swap honey for maple syrup and add 1 tablespoon of whole grain mustard for a rustic, tangy flavor.
Spiced Rum Ham
Add 2 tablespoons of dark rum to the glaze for a rich, island-inspired twist.
Spicy Brown Sugar Ham
Mix in 1 teaspoon of chili flakes or cayenne for a subtle heat that balances the sweetness.
Make It a Holiday Tradition
Whether it’s Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving, or a Sunday dinner, this Crock Pot brown sugar pineapple ham is a dependable showstopper. It’s low-effort, high-reward cooking at its finest—filling your home with an irresistible aroma and your table with unforgettable flavor.
From the first slice to the final bite, this recipe delivers on all fronts: ease, taste, and family approval. It’s the kind of meal that turns moments into memories and gatherings into cherished traditions.
