Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham is a classic dish that beautifully combines sweet and savory flavors, making it a standout centerpiece for any special occasion or family meal. This slow cooker recipe transforms ordinary ham into a tender, juicy, and flavorful masterpiece with very little hands-on effort.
The origins of pairing ham with pineapple date back to the early 20th century, when canned pineapple became widely available in American households. Adding brown sugar enhances the glaze, creating a caramelized coating that is both aromatic and visually stunning.
Preparing ham in a Crock Pot or any slow cooker is a modern twist that suits today's busy lifestyles, allowing you to focus on entertaining your guests or preparing other dishes.
Using a slow cooker ensures the ham stays moist and tender as all the flavors from the brown sugar and pineapple seep into each slice. Whether you are hosting a holiday dinner, Sunday brunch, or simply craving a comforting meal, Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham is guaranteed to please.
This recipe is easy, foolproof, and perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. With minimal prep and hours of slow cooking, you'll reduce stress in the kitchen while delivering a dish that will bring everyone together at the table.
You'll also love how the aroma of sweet pineapple and caramelized glaze fills your home as the ham cooks to perfection.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to making the best Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham, including detailed steps, nutritional facts, variations, and expert tips for achieving mouthwatering results every time.
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (6 to 8 pounds)
- 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple slices in juice, undrained
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh parsley or rosemary (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Remove ham from packaging and discard any plastic disk covering the bone. Pat ham dry with paper towels.
- Place a layer of pineapple slices in the bottom of the Crock Pot, reserving the juice.
- In a medium bowl, mix the reserved pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and black pepper until well combined.
- If desired, score the surface of the ham in a criss-cross pattern using a sharp knife, about ¼ inch deep.
- Place the ham cut side down on top of the pineapple slices in the slow cooker.
- Pour the brown sugar-pineapple mixture evenly over the ham, making sure to cover all surfaces.
- Arrange remaining pineapple slices on top and around the ham. If desired, secure pineapple slices with toothpicks and dot the centers with maraschino cherries.
- Cover the Crock Pot and cook on LOW heat for 4 to 5 hours, or until heated through and the glaze is sticky. Baste the ham with juices every hour if possible.
- Carefully remove the ham from the slow cooker and transfer to a serving platter. Let rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing.
- Spoon additional glaze from the slow cooker over the sliced ham before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs and additional pineapple if desired.
Nutritional Information
Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham is not only delicious but also provides several essential nutrients. A typical 4-ounce serving of this ham contains approximately 250-310 calories, depending on the specific cut and ingredients used. Most of the caloric content comes from protein and the natural sugars in the glaze.
The ham offers about 22-25 grams of high-quality protein per serving, making it an excellent choice for muscle maintenance and energy. The brown sugar and honey or maple syrup contribute approximately 18-25 grams of sugar per serving.
While this adds sweetness and flavor, it's important to be moderate if you are watching your sugar intake. The dish is relatively low in carbohydrates except for the added sugars, as pork itself contains virtually no carbs.
Sodium content can be significant, with estimates around 900-1200mg per serving, mainly from the cured ham. By selecting a lower sodium ham or rinsing the surface of the ham before cooking, you can reduce the salt content.
The pineapple adds a boost of vitamin C and minor amounts of fiber and potassium, enhancing both flavor and nutritional value. While the recipe is rich and indulgent, it can fit comfortably into a balanced diet when paired with healthy sides such as steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
If you have dietary restrictions, consider using a sugar substitute or opting for a leaner cut of ham to further lighten the dish.
Wine and Beverage Pairings
Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages. If you enjoy wine, a lightly sweet Riesling or a fruity Pinot Noir will complement the pineapple and brown sugar glaze without overwhelming the palate.
Sparkling wines like Prosecco or Champagne also match well, bringing a refreshing effervescence that contrasts the rich flavors. For non-alcoholic options, consider a cold glass of sparkling apple cider, pineapple juice, or even an iced herbal tea with hints of citrus.
These drinks balance the sweetness of the ham and cleanse the palate between bites.
Cooking Tips and Variations
For best results with Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham, start by choosing a high-quality, fully cooked bone-in ham, as it offers more flavor and remains moist during slow cooking. Spiral-cut hams are especially convenient because they absorb more glaze between slices and are easier to serve.
If you prefer a richer glaze, use dark brown sugar and a touch of molasses for extra depth. To intensify the pineapple flavor, add a bit of grated fresh ginger to the glaze mixture or replace some of the pineapple juice with orange juice.
For a touch of heat, sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes. If you're short on time, you can cook the ham on HIGH for 2.5 to 3 hours instead of LOW, but for optimal tenderness, slow and low is best.
Always ensure the ham fits comfortably in your slow cooker-cut off a portion if needed, or use a larger oval-shaped Crock Pot. If you have leftovers, the ham can be used in sandwiches, salads, omelets, or soups. For a festive look, garnish with cherries and fresh herbs before serving.
This recipe is incredibly adaptable; feel free to experiment with flavors such as apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, rosemary, or even a splash of bourbon for a dramatic glaze variation.
Serving Suggestions
Serving Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham turns any meal into a festive occasion. For holidays such as Easter, Christmas, or Thanksgiving, arrange the ham slices decoratively on a large platter, surrounded by roasted or steamed vegetables, scalloped potatoes, or a medley of fresh fruits.
Garnish the platter with pineapple rings, maraschino cherries, and sprigs of fresh parsley or rosemary for a beautiful presentation. This dish also works wonderfully as the main course for Sunday brunch, paired with scrambled eggs, biscuits, and a fruit salad.
To complete your meal, offer classic sides such as creamy mashed potatoes, honey-glazed carrots, green bean almondine, or a crisp and vibrant salad. For a lighter option, serve the ham alongside grilled asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts.
Leftover slices are ideal in sandwiches made with crusty bread, tangy mustard, and crisp lettuce, or diced in breakfast hash with sweet potatoes and bell peppers. Encourage your guests to drizzle extra glaze on their slices for an added burst of flavor.
Whether served family-style or as part of a buffet, this ham recipe brings people together and creates lasting memories around the table.
Health Benefits
Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, offering both protein and essential vitamins. Ham is a prime source of lean protein, which supports muscle health and keeps you feeling full.
The addition of pineapple contributes valuable vitamin C, an antioxidant important for immune function and skin health. While the recipe does contain added sugars from brown sugar and honey or maple syrup, you can easily reduce the quantity to meet your dietary needs.
Some individuals may need to be mindful of the sodium content in cured ham; look for lower-sodium options or rinse the ham before cooking to reduce salt. The dish is naturally gluten-free, making it a suitable choice for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
For an even healthier version, choose a ham labeled as "uncured" and free of added nitrates or nitrites. To balance the meal, serve the ham with a variety of colorful vegetables and grains. Moderation is key, as with any indulgent holiday meal.
Savoring Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham alongside wholesome sides can help you meet your nutritional goals without sacrificing flavor or tradition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, boneless ham can be used in the Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham recipe. Adjust the cooking time as boneless hams may cook a bit faster, and be sure the ham fits comfortably in your slow cooker.
Absolutely. You can prepare the glaze and assemble everything in the Crock Pot insert the night before. Store it in the refrigerator, and start cooking the next day for added convenience.
For hams larger than 8 pounds, increase the cooking time slightly, checking for doneness as needed. Generally, 5 to 6 hours on LOW should suffice for a 10-pound ham.
Yes, you can omit the pineapple and substitute with apple juice or orange juice for a different sweet citrusy glaze. The flavor will change but still be delicious.
Leftover Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham is versatile. Use it for sandwiches, salads, breakfast casseroles, or dice it up in soups and quiches.
Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham is the ultimate dish for home cooks who crave simplicity, flavor, and crowd-pleasing results. With minimal preparation and versatile serving possibilities, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite for holidays and everyday meals alike. The sweet, tangy glaze and tender, juicy ham deliver a memorable dining experience every time. Equipped with tips, variations, and serving ideas, you can easily make this classic recipe your own. Impress your guests, reduce kitchen stress, and savor every delicious bite with this foolproof slow cooker ham recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (6 to 8 pounds)
- 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple slices in juice, undrained
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh parsley or rosemary (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
-
1Remove ham from packaging and discard any plastic disk covering the bone. Pat ham dry with paper towels.
-
2Place a layer of pineapple slices in the bottom of the Crock Pot, reserving the juice.
-
3In a medium bowl, mix the reserved pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and black pepper until well combined.
-
4If desired, score the surface of the ham in a criss-cross pattern using a sharp knife, about ¼ inch deep.
-
5Place the ham cut side down on top of the pineapple slices in the slow cooker.
-
6Pour the brown sugar-pineapple mixture evenly over the ham, making sure to cover all surfaces.
-
7Arrange remaining pineapple slices on top and around the ham. If desired, secure pineapple slices with toothpicks and dot the centers with maraschino cherries.
-
8Cover the Crock Pot and cook on LOW heat for 4 to 5 hours, or until heated through and the glaze is sticky. Baste the ham with juices every hour if possible.
-
9Carefully remove the ham from the slow cooker and transfer to a serving platter. Let rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing.
-
10Spoon additional glaze from the slow cooker over the sliced ham before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs and additional pineapple if desired.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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