Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham

Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham is an easy, delicious, and flavorful dish perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you want a sweet and savory main course. The slow cooking method ensures the ham stays moist and absorbs the sweet glaze.

Ingredients:

  • 1 (6-8 lb) fully cooked ham (bone-in or boneless)
  • 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 1 (20 oz) can pineapple slices (with juice)
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves (optional for extra flavor)
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
  • Maraschino cherries (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the ham and glaze

  1. Unwrap the ham and pat it dry with paper towels. If the ham has a thick layer of fat, you can score it in a diamond pattern (optional), which helps the glaze penetrate better.
  2. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard (if using), ground cloves, and cinnamon. This will form the sweet glaze for the ham.

Step 2: Assemble in the crock pot

  1. Place the ham in the crock pot, flat side down, and pour the pineapple juice from the can over the ham.
  2. Rub the brown sugar glaze all over the ham, making sure to coat it evenly.
  3. Arrange the pineapple slices on top of the ham, securing them with toothpicks if needed. If desired, place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple slice for extra color and flavor.

Step 3: Slow cook the ham

  1. Cover the crock pot with the lid and cook on low for 4-5 hours (or high for 2-3 hours), basting occasionally with the juices from the bottom of the crock pot. The ham is ready when it’s heated through and reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) for a precooked ham.
  2. If you like a glazed caramelized top, you can remove the ham from the crock pot during the last 30 minutes and place it on a baking sheet. Brush the top with extra glaze, then place it under a broiler for 5-7 minutes until the glaze is bubbly and slightly browned.

Step 4: Serve

  1. Once the ham is done cooking, remove it from the crock pot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
  2. Serve the ham with the pineapple slices and some of the juices from the crock pot drizzled over the top.

Serving suggestions:

  • Serve with classic sides like scalloped potatoes, green beans, or a light salad.
  • Leftovers can be used for sandwiches or in casseroles!

This Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham is a simple and stress-free way to prepare a flavorful, sweet, and savory ham for any occasion. Enjoy!