Picture this: You enter your home after a long day, feeling the weight of the world lift as the sweet scent of pineapple and maple drifts through the air. This isn’t just dinner; it’s my beloved Crockpot Sticky Pineapple Maple Ham, an effortless star that fills your space with warmth and nostalgia. It all began when I discovered how wonderfully a spiral-sliced ham transforms in a slow cooker, becoming tender and infused with a sticky glaze that melds sweet and savory flavors perfectly.
After hosting several gatherings where this dish stole the show, I thought—why not share this easy-to-master recipe? It’s a crowd-pleaser, beautiful enough for any occasion, yet simple enough for weeknight dinners. Plus, there’s something delightfully effortless about letting the crockpot do all the hard work. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress family and friends with a ham that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!
Why is Crockpot Sticky Pineapple Maple Ham a Must-Try?
Deliciously Sweet: The harmonious blend of pineapple and maple syrup creates a sticky glaze that perfectly complements the savory ham.
Effortless Cooking: Just toss all the ingredients in your crockpot and let it do all the work, leaving you free to enjoy the day.
Perfectly Tender: With slow cooking, the ham becomes delectably tender, melting in your mouth with every bite.
Family Favorite: This dish has received rave reviews from friends and family alike, ensuring it will be a showstopper at your next gathering.
Versatile Meal: Whether for holiday feasts or casual dinners, this ham adapts beautifully to any occasion, making every meal special.
Make this delectable dish and see why it’s loved by many—don’t forget to check out my other quick and easy slow cooker recipes!
Crockpot Sticky Pineapple Maple Ham Ingredients
• Prepare for a delicious potluck favorite with these simple ingredients!
For the Ham
• Spiral-sliced ham (5–6 lb) – A fully cooked ham saves time and ensures tenderness.
For the Pineapple Glaze
• Canned pineapple rings (20 oz) – The juice adds natural sweetness and moisture to the ham.
• Pure maple syrup (1/2 cup) – This brings depth of flavor and a rich sweetness to the glaze.
• Brown sugar (1/2 cup) – Adds a dark, caramelized sweetness that balances the flavors.
• Honey (1/4 cup) – Extra sweetness helps enhance the sticky texture of the glaze.
• Dijon mustard (2 tbsp) – Provides a hint of tanginess that complements the sweetness.
• Unsalted butter (2 tbsp, melted) – Adds richness and enhances the glaze’s silkiness.
• Ground cinnamon (1/2 tsp) – A warm spice that elevates the flavor profile richly.
• Ground cloves (1/4 tsp) – Contributes a warm, aromatic depth to the glaze.
For Thickening the Glaze
• Cornstarch (1 tbsp) – Use this to thicken the sauce for a perfect glossy finish.
• Cold water (2 tbsp) – Helps dissolve the cornstarch for a smooth texture.
For Garnishing
• Maraschino cherries (6, drained) – Adds a pop of color and sweet-tart flavor on top.
• Fresh parsley (1 tbsp, chopped) – Optional, but it brings a burst of freshness for presentation.
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this Crockpot Sticky Pineapple Maple Ham recipe that’s sure to impress!
How to Make Crockpot Sticky Pineapple Maple Ham
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Grease the crockpot: Start by lightly greasing the ceramic insert of your 7–8-quart slow cooker to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup later.
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Prepare the ham: Carefully remove the packaging and any plastic bone guard from the fully cooked ham. Place the ham cut-side down in the crockpot and arrange 5–6 pineapple rings over and around it, saving a few for later.
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Combine ingredients: In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, mix together 1/2 cup reserved pineapple juice, maple syrup, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, melted butter, cinnamon, and cloves. Stir for 3–4 minutes until everything is dissolved and well-blended.
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Pour the glaze: Drizzle the warm pineapple-maple mixture evenly over the ham, encouraging some of the glaze to seep between the spiral slices for extra flavor.
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Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook the ham on LOW for 4–6 hours or on HIGH for 2–3 hours. During cooking, remember to spoon the glaze over the ham once or twice for maximum flavor.
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Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham reaches 140°F (60°C) for fully cooked ham or 165°F (74°C) for repackaged or leftover ham.
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Thicken the glaze: Carefully transfer 1 cup of cooking juices to a saucepan. Mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, whisk it into the juices, and simmer for 2–4 minutes until it becomes glossy and thickened.
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Finish the ham: Spoon the thickened glaze over the ham, add the reserved pineapple rings, and place maraschino cherries on top. For a caramelized finish, consider transferring to an oven-safe pan and broiling for 2–4 minutes.
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Garnish: If you’re feeling fancy, garnish the ham with 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley and serve it warm, drizzling extra pineapple-maple sauce over each slice for added delight.
Optional: For extra texture, sprinkle some toasted coconut on top before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Crockpot Sticky Pineapple Maple Ham?
Creating a complete and satisfying meal to complement this delightful ham is a joyous endeavor filled with flavor and texture.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these potatoes create a comforting side that pairs perfectly with the sweet glaze of the ham.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their nutty, crispy edges contrast beautifully with the sticky sweetness of the ham. A sprinkle of balsamic glaze can enhance their earthy flavor.
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Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and vibrant, these tender carrots bring a hint of natural sugar that mirrors the ham’s glaze, making each bite a delightful symphony of flavors.
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Apple Walnut Salad: Crisp greens with tart apples and crunchy walnuts provide a fresh, vibrant counterpoint to the richness of the ham. Toss in a tangy vinaigrette for an extra zing.
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Dinner Rolls: Soft and pillowy, these rolls are perfect for sopping up the delicious glaze. They add a comforting element that’s always a hit at the table.
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Sparkling Cider: A refreshing drink that combines effervescence with a fruity kick, making it a delightful pairing with the maple and pineapple flavors of the ham.
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Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: For dessert, this classic cake echoes the flavors of the ham, with juicy pineapple and a sweet, caramelized topping that’s simply irresistible.
Serve these enticing options alongside your Crockpot Sticky Pineapple Maple Ham for a truly memorable meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Make Ahead Options
These Crockpot Sticky Pineapple Maple Ham components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the glaze by mixing the pineapple juice, maple syrup, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, melted butter, cinnamon, and cloves up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can slice the ham and arrange the pineapple rings in the crockpot a day ahead, saving precious time on a busy day. When you’re ready to cook, simply pour the prepared glaze over the ham and proceed with the cooking instructions. This way, your dish will still turn out just as delicious while maximizing your time in the kitchen!
Crockpot Sticky Pineapple Maple Ham Variations
Feel free to explore your creativity and enhance this delightful dish with these fun twists!
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Brown Sugar Substitute: Use coconut sugar for a lower Glycemic Index option that still caramelizes beautifully.
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Maple Syrup Alternative: Swap in agave nectar for a vegan-friendly alternative that maintains sweetness without the maple flavor.
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Pineapple Twist: Use fresh pineapple instead of canned for a bright, more vibrant flavor that enhances the glaze’s freshness.
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze for a delightful heat that balances the sweetness perfectly.
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Fruit Add-in: Toss in thinly sliced apples or pears with the ham for added fruitiness and texture that pairs wonderfully with the glaze.
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Herb Infusion: Sneak in a few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary while cooking for an aromatic depth that juxtaposes the sweetness.
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Toasty Coconut: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top before serving to add a crunchy texture that contrasts deliciously with the sticky glaze.
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Mustard Variety: Try whole grain mustard for a hearty twist that adds character and slight crunch to the glaze.
Expert Tips for Crockpot Sticky Pineapple Maple Ham
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Ham Selection: Choose a fully cooked spiral-sliced ham for maximum ease. This ensures your Crockpot Sticky Pineapple Maple Ham is tender and flavorful without fuss.
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Glaze Distribution: Don’t skip pouring the warm glaze between the slices! This ensures every part of the ham soaks up that delicious pineapple-maple flavor.
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Cooking Temperature: Always double-check the doneness with a meat thermometer. Aim for 140°F (60°C) for fully cooked ham or 165°F (74°C) for leftovers to ensure safety and flavor.
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Thickening Tricky: If your glaze is too runny, make sure to mix the cornstarch with cold water thoroughly before adding it to the cooking juices. This avoids lumps and creates a smooth sauce.
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Caramelized Finish: For an appealing touch, consider broiling the ham for a few minutes before serving. This caramelizes the glaze and adds a lovely, crispy exterior.
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Garnishing: A sprinkle of chopped parsley not only adds color but offers a fresh flavor contrast to the sweet ham—don’t forget to include it when serving!
How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Sticky Pineapple Maple Ham
Fridge: Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For long-term storage, slice the ham and wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat slices in the microwave, or place in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, drizzling with any reserved glaze for extra moisture.
Leftover Ideas: Use thawed ham in sandwiches, salads, or casseroles to avoid waste and enjoy the rich flavor of your Crockpot Sticky Pineapple Maple Ham in new ways.
Crockpot Sticky Pineapple Maple Ham Recipe FAQs
How do I select a ripe pineapple for the glaze?
Opt for canned pineapple rings in juice for convenience and consistent flavor, but if you prefer fresh pineapples, look for a ripe one that gives slightly when pressed and has a sweet aroma at the stem end. Avoid pineapples with dark spots or signs of fermentation.
What is the best way to store leftover ham?
Absolutely! Store leftover ham in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Make sure to keep it covered to prevent it from drying out while retaining that sweet, sticky flavor. If needed, add a bit of the reserved glaze to keep it moist.
Can I freeze Crockpot Sticky Pineapple Maple Ham?
Yes, you can! First, slice the ham into portions and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap. Then wrap it in aluminum foil or place it into an airtight freezer bag. This locks in freshness, and you can freeze it for up to 2 months.
How do I reheat the frozen ham?
When you’re ready to enjoy that delightful flavor again, thaw the slices overnight in your fridge. For reheating, you can microwave them or place them in a covered dish in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). Drizzle with any reserved pineapple glaze before warming for extra moisture and flavor.
Can I use this recipe for pets?
While humans can savor the rich flavors of the ham, it’s best not to share with pets. The glaze contains ingredients like honey and mustard that aren’t ideal for them. If you’d like to treat your furry friends, consider offering plain, cooked ham without any seasoning.
What should I do if the glaze is too thin?
If you find your glaze isn’t thickening as you’d like, it’s often because the cornstarch wasn’t mixed thoroughly. To remedy this, ensure you whisk 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Then, slowly add it to your cooking juices on the stove, stirring constantly for 2–4 minutes until it becomes glossy and thickened.
Crockpot Sticky Pineapple Maple Ham That Steals the Show
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Grease the crockpot: Start by lightly greasing the ceramic insert of your 7–8-quart slow cooker to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup later.
- Prepare the ham: Carefully remove the packaging and any plastic bone guard from the fully cooked ham. Place the ham cut-side down in the crockpot and arrange 5–6 pineapple rings over and around it, saving a few for later.
- Combine ingredients: In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, mix together 1/2 cup reserved pineapple juice, maple syrup, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, melted butter, cinnamon, and cloves. Stir for 3–4 minutes until everything is dissolved and well-blended.
- Pour the glaze: Drizzle the warm pineapple-maple mixture evenly over the ham, encouraging some of the glaze to seep between the spiral slices for extra flavor.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook the ham on LOW for 4–6 hours or on HIGH for 2–3 hours. During cooking, remember to spoon the glaze over the ham once or twice for maximum flavor.
- Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham reaches 140°F (60°C) for fully cooked ham or 165°F (74°C) for repackaged or leftover ham.
- Thicken the glaze: Carefully transfer 1 cup of cooking juices to a saucepan. Mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, whisk it into the juices, and simmer for 2–4 minutes until it becomes glossy and thickened.
- Finish the ham: Spoon the thickened glaze over the ham, add the reserved pineapple rings, and place maraschino cherries on top. For a caramelized finish, consider transferring to an oven-safe pan and broiling for 2–4 minutes.
- Garnish: If you're feeling fancy, garnish the ham with 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley and serve it warm, drizzling extra pineapple-maple sauce over each slice for added delight.
