There’s a certain joy that fills my kitchen when the aroma of sweet maple and zesty pineapple wafts through the air. I often find myself reminiscing about family gatherings, where everyone would gather around a beautifully glazed ham, laughter mingling with the enticing scent of caramelization. That’s why I’m excited to share with you my recipe for Crockpot Sticky Pineapple Maple Ham—a dish that transforms an ordinary weeknight into an extraordinary feast with minimal effort!
This slow-cooked masterpiece not only mesmerizes your taste buds with its fantastic flavor profile, but it also frees up your time so you can focus on what matters most—your loved ones. Whether it’s a holiday celebration or simply a cozy dinner at home, this ham truly steals the show. Imagine succulent slices of ham, drizzled with a luscious maple glaze, complemented by juicy pineapple rings and vibrant maraschino cherries. It’s a delightful crowd-pleaser that pairs well with any side dish, making it perfect for the dinner table or a potluck.
Let’s dive into this easy recipe so you can bring that unforgettable taste right into your home!
Why is Crockpot Sticky Pineapple Maple Ham a Must-Try?
Effortless Preparation: This recipe requires minimal hands-on work, letting your crockpot do the magic while you sit back and relax.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet maple syrup, savory ham, and zesty pineapple creates an explosion of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Perfect for Gatherings: Impress family and friends with a dish that looks stunning and tastes even better, making it an ideal centerpiece for holidays or special occasions.
Versatile Pairing: This ham pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from creamy mashed potatoes to vibrant salads, ensuring it fits seamlessly into any meal.
Time-Saving Cooking: With slow-cooking, you can prepare ahead and spend less time in the kitchen, freeing you up to create cherished memories with your loved ones.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Its standout flavor and gorgeous presentation make this dish a guaranteed hit, ensuring you’ll be the star of the dinner table!
Ingredients for Crockpot Sticky Pineapple Maple Ham
Get ready for a flavorful feast with these simple ingredients!
For the Ham
• Spiral-sliced ham – A fully cooked ham (5–6 lb) is the star of this dish, providing tenderness and flavor.
For the Glaze
• Pure maple syrup – This sweetener adds depth and richness to the glaze, enhancing the ham’s flavor.
• Brown sugar – Packed brown sugar adds caramel notes that help create a sticky coating.
• Pineapple juice – This juice provides acidity, balancing the sweetness and brightening the dish.
• Dijon mustard – A little mustard gives a subtle zing that complements the overall sweetness beautifully.
• Unsalted butter – Melted butter enriches the glaze and adds a luxurious texture.
• Apple cider vinegar – This ingredient introduces a tangy note that elevates the flavor profile.
• Ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and a comforting aroma that is perfect for holiday gatherings.
• Ground cloves – Just a pinch adds a hint of spice that complements the sweet profile.
For the Topping
• Canned pineapple rings – These juicy rings (8, drained) are not only a delicious garnish but also infuse the ham with flavor.
• Maraschino cherries – These vibrant cherries (8, drained) add a pop of color and a touch of nostalgia.
For the Thickening Mixture
• Cornstarch – Use 1 tablespoon to help thicken the cooking liquid into a glossy sauce.
• Cold water – Mixing with cornstarch ensures a smooth consistency when incorporated into the sauce.
With these delightful ingredients, you’re just moments away from creating a sensational Crockpot Sticky Pineapple Maple Ham that everyone will love!
How to Make Crockpot Sticky Pineapple Maple Ham
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Prepare the Cooker: Lightly grease the ceramic insert of a 7–8-quart oval slow cooker. Arrange 4 pineapple rings on the bottom to infuse flavor into the ham.
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Position the Ham: Remove all packaging and any plastic bone guard from the ham. Place the fully cooked ham cut-side down over the pineapple rings for a juicy finish.
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Make the Glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine maple syrup, brown sugar, ½ cup pineapple juice, Dijon mustard, melted butter, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and cloves. Stir for 3–4 minutes until the sugar dissolves and everything melds beautifully.
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Glaze the Ham: Pour approximately two-thirds of the warm glaze over the ham, ensuring some flows between the slices for maximum flavor. Reserve the remaining glaze in the refrigerator and arrange the other 4 pineapple rings over and around the ham.
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Slow Cook the Ham: Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the ham reaches 140°F (60°C) in the thickest portion for perfectly heated slices.
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Thicken the Sauce: Carefully transfer 1 cup of cooking liquid to a small saucepan. In a separate bowl, stir together 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 2 tablespoons cold water, then whisk this mixture into the liquid. Simmer on the stovetop for 2–3 minutes until it thickens to a glossy consistency.
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Finish the Ham: Brush the ham with the thickened sauce and reserved glaze. For a lovely caramelized surface, transfer the ham to an oven-safe roasting pan and broil for 3–5 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
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Garnish and Serve: Place the pineapple rings attractively around and on top of the ham, and add the 8 maraschino cherries for that nostalgic touch. Spoon a little glossy sauce over the ham and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to lock in those delicious juices.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Crockpot Sticky Pineapple Maple Ham?
Elevate your family dinner with delightful accompaniments that beautifully complement the sweet and savory notes of this ham masterpiece.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture balances the sticky glaze of the ham, making each bite a comforting experience. There’s nothing quite like a scoop of buttery mashed potatoes alongside those succulent slices!
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their sweetness offers a fresh, vibrant contrast to the savory ham. These tender carrots not only taste divine but also give your plate a lovely pop of color.
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Coleslaw: This crunchy side adds a refreshing bite, cutting through the richness of the ham. The tangy dressing brings a zesty note, making it a perfect partner for this slow-cooked delight.
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Garlic Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed in garlic butter bring a delightful crunch. Their earthy flavor beautifully complements the savory notes of the ham, while the garlic elevates the dish even further.
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Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts with a hint of balsamic glaze make for an elegant side that echoes the flavors of the ham. Their crispy edges provide a satisfying texture that’s utterly irresistible.
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Tropical Fruit Salad: A medley of fresh fruits like pineapple, mango, and kiwi introduces a bright, sweet contrast to the ham. This refreshing salad is the perfect palate cleanser to round out your meal.
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Classic Dinner Rolls: Soft, buttery rolls are ideal for soaking up the luscious glaze from the ham. They add a delightful touch of warmth, perfect for sharing around the dinner table.
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Sparkling Apple Cider: A sparkling drink adds a festive flair, its crispness enhancing the meal’s rich flavors. Serve it chilled for a delightful toast at any gathering.
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Chocolate Cake: For dessert, a slice of rich chocolate cake balances the savory main course beautifully. Its decadence rounds out the meal while leaving everyone satisfied and smiling.
Crockpot Sticky Pineapple Maple Ham Variations
Feel free to put your own twist on this delightful dish and make it uniquely yours!
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Ginger Infusion: Add 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger to the glaze for a zesty kick that brightens the overall flavor.
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Maple-Bourbon Glaze: Incorporate 2 tablespoons of bourbon into the glaze for a rich depth that adds sophistication to your meal.
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Herb-Seasoned Ham: Sprinkle fresh rosemary or thyme in the slow cooker to infuse aromatic goodness throughout the ham; it’s a fantastic herbal complement!
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Citrus Burst: Mix in the zest of an orange or lemon for a refreshing citrus note that elevates the flavor profile beautifully.
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Hot and Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a spoonful of your favorite hot sauce to the glaze for a surprising heat that will excite your taste buds.
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Pineapple Variations: Swap canned pineapple for fresh pineapple in the rings and juice for a brighter flavor, capturing that fresh fruit essence.
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Peachy Keen: Replace pineapple juice with peach nectar for a sweeter, fruit-forward twist that adds a lively flavor to your glaze.
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Cherry Delight: Fold in ½ cup of cherry preserves to the glaze for an even richer cherry flavor that pairs wonderfully with the ham’s sweetness.
Let your creativity flow and enjoy the delicious results!
Expert Tips for Crockpot Sticky Pineapple Maple Ham
Choose the Right Ham: A fully cooked spiral-sliced ham is ideal; it ensures tenderness and saves time. Avoid raw or uncooked versions to keep it hassle-free.
Mind the Glaze: Make sure to pour the warm glaze over the ham, especially between the slices. This infuses flavor while cooking, ensuring every bite is deliciously sticky.
Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that the thickest part of the ham reaches 140°F (60°C). This ensures it’s thoroughly heated without drying out.
Broil for Caramelization: Broiling after cooking gives your ham a gorgeous caramelized finish, but watch it closely—broiling can go from perfect to burnt quickly!
Rest Before Slicing: Allow the ham to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This lets the juices redistribute, resulting in moist, flavorful pieces.
Serve with Sides: Crockpot Sticky Pineapple Maple Ham pairs beautifully with sides like creamy mashed potatoes or fresh salads, making for a well-rounded meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Crockpot Sticky Pineapple Maple Ham preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can mix the glaze ingredients and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. Additionally, you can arrange the pineapple rings and position the ham in the slow cooker, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days ahead of time. To maintain quality, wrap the ham tightly to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, simply take the prepared ham out of the fridge, pour the glaze over it, and follow the cooking instructions as usual—it’ll be just as delicious and an effortless centerpiece for your meal!
Storage Tips for Crockpot Sticky Pineapple Maple Ham
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to separate the ham from the glaze to maintain its flavor and texture.
Freezer: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months for quick meals later.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in a low oven (250°F or 120°C) until heated through. Drizzle with leftover glaze for extra flavor.
Avoid Room Temperature: Keep the ham refrigerated to avoid bacterial growth. It should not stay out for more than 2 hours after cooking.
Crockpot Sticky Pineapple Maple Ham Recipe FAQs
What kind of ham should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! A fully cooked spiral-sliced ham (5–6 lb) is what you want. This type of ham is tender, easy to serve, and perfect for slow cooking, ensuring maximum flavor without the hassle of preparation.
How should I store leftover ham?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. I recommend separating the ham from any glaze to maintain the flavor and texture. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Can I freeze the ham? How?
Very! To freeze, ensure that the ham is cool. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag. This keeps the ham fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What ingredients should I be careful with for allergies?
If you’re serving guests, keep an eye on potential allergens like Dijon mustard and pineapple, as some people may be allergic to these ingredients. You might consider using a gluten-free mustard for those who might have gluten sensitivities or substitute the pineapple juice with apple juice for an alternative flavor.
What if the glaze isn’t thickening?
No worries! If your glaze isn’t thickening as expected after adding cornstarch, make sure you’ve simmered it for at least 2-3 minutes, whisking continuously. If it still seems thin, you can create a little more cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water, then adding it to the simmering glaze. Stir continuously for another couple of minutes until it reaches that desired glossy thickness.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze and even arrange the ham with pineapple rings in the slow cooker a day in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate. On the day you plan to serve, simply pour the glaze over it and let your crockpot do the work for you. This will make your meal prep even easier and more enjoyable!
Crockpot Sticky Pineapple Maple Ham for Effortless Feasts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Lightly grease the ceramic insert of a 7–8-quart oval slow cooker. Arrange 4 pineapple rings on the bottom to infuse flavor into the ham.
- Remove all packaging and any plastic bone guard from the ham. Place the fully cooked ham cut-side down over the pineapple rings for a juicy finish.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine maple syrup, brown sugar, ½ cup pineapple juice, Dijon mustard, melted butter, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and cloves. Stir for 3–4 minutes until the sugar dissolves and everything melds beautifully.
- Pour approximately two-thirds of the warm glaze over the ham, ensuring some flows between the slices for maximum flavor. Reserve the remaining glaze in the refrigerator and arrange the other 4 pineapple rings over and around the ham.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the ham reaches 140°F (60°C) in the thickest portion for perfectly heated slices.
- Carefully transfer 1 cup of cooking liquid to a small saucepan. In a separate bowl, stir together 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 2 tablespoons cold water, then whisk this mixture into the liquid. Simmer on the stovetop for 2–3 minutes until it thickens to a glossy consistency.
- Brush the ham with the thickened sauce and reserved glaze. For a lovely caramelized surface, transfer the ham to an oven-safe roasting pan and broil for 3–5 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Place the pineapple rings attractively around and on top of the ham, and add the 8 maraschino cherries for that nostalgic touch. Spoon a little glossy sauce over the ham and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to lock in those delicious juices.
