Gathering around the table with family and friends always calls for something special, and nothing brings smiles quite like a Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Pineapple. The moment my slow cooker starts bubbling, I can already picture the joy on everyone’s faces, and I’m transported to those festive dinners from my childhood, where the sweet aroma of ham filled the air.
This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories wrapped in a tender, juicy ham, kissed with the rich sweetness of brown sugar and honey, and brightened by tangy pineapple. The best part? You can effortlessly prepare it in your slow cooker, giving you more time to enjoy being with your loved ones instead of slaving over a hot stove.
Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this recipe will soon become a cherished favorite in your home. Ready to impress your guests with a dish that’s simple yet stunning? Let’s dive in!
Why will you love this Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Pineapple?
Delightfully Easy: This recipe transforms a beautiful ham into a feast with minimal effort.
Flavors that Wow: The harmony of sweet brown sugar, honey, and tangy pineapple makes every bite memorable.
Effortless Preparation: Simply set your slow cooker and allow the aromas to elevate your gathering!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday or a family dinner, this dish shines at the table.
Impressive Presentation: The golden glaze and pineapple rings create a stunning centerpiece that’s sure to impress.
For more tips on enhancing your ham recipes, check out our section on cooking tips for juicy meats.
Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Glazed Ham Ingredients
• To create this irresistible Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Pineapple, gather these flavorful ingredients:
For the Ham
- Spiral-cut bone-in ham – A fully cooked ham (6–7 lb) ensures tender and juicy results without extra cooking time.
For the Glaze
- Brown sugar – Provides a rich sweetness that caramelizes beautifully during cooking.
- Honey – Adds depth and enhances the glaze’s stickiness.
- Pineapple juice – Brightens up the flavors and complements the ham’s sweetness.
- Dijon mustard – Offers a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of the glaze.
- Unsalted butter – Aids in achieving a luscious consistency while enriching the flavor.
- Ground cinnamon – Infuses warmth, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
- Ground cloves – Just a pinch adds a delightful aromatic note.
For the Pineapple
- Pineapple rings – Not only serve as decoration but also infuse the ham with tropical sweetness as they cook.
- Whole cloves (optional) – Great for decorating the pineapple and adding an extra touch of flavor.
For the Sauce
- Cornstarch – Helps to thicken the cooking liquid into a glossy glaze.
- Cold water – Is mixed with cornstarch to create a smooth thickening agent.
Gather these ingredients for your fabulous Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Pineapple, and get ready to create a memorable meal!
How to Make Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Pineapple
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Prepare the crockpot: Lightly grease the ceramic insert of your 7–8-quart oval slow cooker with nonstick spray. Ensure the ham fits snugly so the lid can close properly.
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Position the ham: Remove any packaging and plastic bone guard from your fully cooked ham. Place it into the crockpot with the cut side facing down for even heating.
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Make the glaze: In a bowl, whisk together packed brown sugar, honey, pineapple juice, Dijon mustard, melted butter, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves until well-combined and smooth.
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Glaze the ham: Pour about two-thirds of the glaze over the ham, gently separating the spiral slices. This helps the glaze seep between them. Arrange pineapple rings both around and on top of the ham, adding whole cloves into a few if desired for a festive touch.
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Slow cook: Cover the slow cooker and set to cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the ham is thoroughly heated (140°F for fully cooked ham; 165°F for other leftovers). Be sure to check early to prevent drying out.
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Add remaining glaze: In the last 30 minutes, drizzle the remaining glaze over the ham, cover it again, and allow it to finish warming up.
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Thicken the sauce: Carefully pour 1 cup of the cooking liquid into a small saucepan. Bring it to a simmer, then mix cornstarch with cold water, stir it in, and simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens and becomes glossy.
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Finish and serve: Spoon the thickened glaze over the ham, then artfully arrange the pineapple rings on top. Allow the dish to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving, making every piece flavorful.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Pineapple are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the glaze (combining brown sugar, honey, pineapple juice, Dijon mustard, melted butter, cinnamon, and cloves) up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. You can also place the ham in the slow cooker with the glaze poured over it and cover it tightly to store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. When you’re ready to serve, just set the slow cooker to LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, and your show-stopping ham will be just as delicious as if freshly made! This preparation lets you enjoy the moments that truly matter, without any last-minute stress.
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Glazed Ham
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Glaze Evenly: Always pour the glaze slowly while separating the ham slices. This ensures every part of the meat is infused with that sweet, sticky goodness.
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Monitor Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking by checking the ham’s temperature during the final hour, especially using the LOW setting for the best results.
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Thickening Sauce: If the sauce seems too thin after cooking, simmer longer for a thicker texture. This enhances the glaze’s richness for your Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Pineapple.
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Rest Before Slicing: Let the ham rest for 10 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is moist and flavorful.
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Using Leftovers: If you have leftover ham, try adding it to soups or salads for a quick meal that doesn’t compromise on taste!
How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Pineapple
Fridge: Store any leftover ham in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and delicious for your next meal!
Freezer: You can freeze the glazed ham, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil, for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place the ham in a baking dish with a splash of pineapple juice. Cover with foil and heat in a 325°F oven until warmed through—around 20-30 minutes.
Glaze Storage: Any leftover glaze can be stored in the fridge for up to a week in a sealed container. Use it to enhance future meals or as a dipping sauce!
Glazed Ham Variations
Feel free to make this recipe your own by adding exciting twists and substitutions that suit your taste!
- Dairy-Free: Replace unsalted butter with coconut oil for a delightful, lactose-free glaze. It brings a subtle tropical touch that pairs beautifully!
- Spicy Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a warming heat that beautifully complements the sweetness. This offers an unexpected flavor thrill!
- Maple Glaze: Swap honey for maple syrup to create a uniquely rich flavor profile, enhancing the sweetness with a slightly nutty undertone.
- Brown Sugar Options: Use coconut sugar or brown rice syrup instead of brown sugar for a richer, deeper flavor experience that still caramelizes like a dream!
- Additional Fruits: Incorporate sliced peaches or apples along with or instead of pineapple for an exciting flavor explosion that adds a lovely fruity twist.
- Citrus Zing: Squeeze in the juice of an orange or add lime zest to the glaze for a refreshing citrus brightness that awakens your palate.
- Southern Style: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of bourbon into the glaze for a wonderfully rich depth of flavor. It’s perfect for impromptu southern-inspired gatherings!
- Savory Herb Twist: Mix in chopped fresh rosemary or thyme for an earthy aroma that wonderfully contrasts with the sweet glaze, making each bite memorable.
Experiment with these variations to discover new flavors and textures that you— and your loved ones— will adore!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Pineapple?
Imagine the laughter and joy around your table as you discover perfect pairings for this delightful dish!
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and buttery, they provide a comforting contrast to the sweet and savory ham.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness beautifully balances the glaze’s sweetness while adding a crunchy texture.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: The natural sugars in the carrots enhance the overall sweetness of the meal, offering a vibrant pop of color and flavor.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they are perfect for mopping up any extra glaze.
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Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy slaw adds a refreshing crunch. Its zesty notes will brighten your plate without overwhelming the main event.
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Cranberry Sauce: The tartness cuts through the rich flavors of the ham, providing an unexpected but delightful complement.
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Sweet Potato Casserole: Its creamy, sweet blend pairs wonderfully with ham, offering a comforting familiarity with each bite.
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Sparkling Cider: Celebrate the meal with this bubbly drink that echoes the sweet notes of the ham while refreshing the palate.
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Apple Crisp: A warm, cinnamon-spiced dessert will end your meal on a sweet note, echoing the flavors of the ham.
Elevate your dining experience with these pairings and create a memorable feast around your Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Pineapple!
Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Pineapple Recipe FAQs
What type of ham should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, use a fully cooked spiral-cut bone-in ham, weighing between 6–7 lbs. The spiral-cut design allows for even heating and easier serving, making it ideal for family gatherings.
How should I store leftover ham?
Leftover ham can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s tightly sealed to keep all that delicious flavor intact for your next meal.
Can I freeze the glazed ham?
Yes! You can freeze the glazed ham tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 2 months. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight before reheating it. It’s an easy way to preserve leftovers for later enjoyment!
Why is my ham drying out while cooking?
To prevent your ham from drying out, make sure to check the internal temperature during the cooking process—ideally aiming for 140°F for fully cooked ham. Using the LOW setting is also a gentler method, ensuring it stays juicy. If it starts looking dry, you can spoon some of the cooking juices back onto it to keep it moist.
Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
Very! However, be mindful of the ingredients. This recipe contains common allergens like honey and mustard. For those with dietary restrictions, consider using alternatives, such as maple syrup instead of honey, and omit the mustard or substitute with a non-allergen option. Always check the labels of your ingredients for any potential allergens.
How do I reheat leftover ham properly?
To reheat leftover ham and keep it moist, place it in a baking dish and add a splash of pineapple juice to create steam. Cover the dish with foil to retain moisture and heat in a 325°F oven for 20-30 minutes or until warmed through. This method will enhance the flavors while ensuring it doesn’t dry out!
Sweet & Savory Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Pineapple
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Lightly grease the ceramic insert of your slow cooker with nonstick spray.
- Remove any packaging from the ham and place it in the crockpot with the cut side facing down.
- Mix together brown sugar, honey, pineapple juice, Dijon mustard, melted butter, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves in a bowl until smooth.
- Pour two-thirds of the glaze over the ham, adding pineapple rings around and on top of the ham with whole cloves if desired.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, checking early to prevent drying out.
- In the last 30 minutes, drizzle the remaining glaze over the ham.
- Pour 1 cup of cooking liquid into a saucepan, mix cornstarch with cold water, and simmer until thickened.
- Spoon the thickened glaze over the ham, arrange pineapple rings, and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
