Sweet & Tangy Crock Pot Brown Sugar Ham with Pineapple Recipe

My grandmother’s secret technique for a mouthwatering brown sugar ham with pineapple revolutionizes traditional holiday cooking.

Weeknight dinners demand simple yet spectacular solutions that impress everyone around the table.

Sweet and savory flavors merge perfectly in this slow cooker masterpiece.

No complicated steps stand between you and an incredible meal that practically prepares itself.

Juicy ham layers combine with caramelized pineapple for a stunning centerpiece that looks professional but feels wonderfully homemade.

Tender meat practically falls apart with each delicious bite, promising a memorable dining experience.

Grab your crock pot and let’s make magic happen with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness.

Why Crock Pot Brown Sugar Ham With Pineapple Recipe Is Sweet And Savory

• Simplify Holiday Cooking: This crock pot ham recipe transforms complex holiday meal preparation into an effortless process, letting you spend more time with family instead of being stuck in the kitchen.
• Maximize Flavor Infusion: Layering brown sugar and pineapple directly in the slow cooker creates a natural caramelization that deeply penetrates the ham, delivering a sweet and tangy taste sensation in every bite.
• Zero-Stress Entertaining Hack: By using a crock pot, you eliminate the need for constant monitoring, making this recipe perfect for busy hosts who want to serve a delicious main course without added stress.
• Minimal Ingredient Magic: With just a few simple ingredients like brown sugar and pineapple, this recipe proves that delectable meals don't require complicated techniques or hard-to-find components.

What You’ll Need For Crock Pot Brown Sugar Ham With Pineapple Recipe

• Ham: A classic holiday centerpiece with rich, savory flavor, best when bone-in for maximum juiciness and traditional taste.

• Brown Sugar, Pineapple Slices: Natural sweeteners that create a caramelized glaze, adding depth and tropical brightness to the ham. Fresh or canned pineapple works well, with canned being more convenient.

• Pineapple Juice: Helps tenderize the meat and provides additional sweet, tangy moisture for slow cooking. Ensures the ham stays succulent throughout the cooking process.

How To Make Crock Pot Brown Sugar Ham With Pineapple Recipe With Ease

Step 1: Prepare the Crock Pot Base

Sprinkle a generous layer of brown sugar across the bottom of your slow cooker, creating a sweet foundation for the ham. The sugar will caramelize and create a mouthwatering glaze as the ham cooks.

Step 2: Create the First Pineapple Layer

Carefully arrange a layer of pineapple slices over the brown sugar. These juicy fruit rings will infuse the ham with tropical sweetness and help tenderize the meat during cooking.

Step 3: Position the Ham

Gently place the ham in the slow cooker, centering it on top of the pineapple slices. Make sure the ham fits comfortably without being squished.

Step 4: Add Remaining Pineapple Topping

Distribute the remaining pineapple slices across the top and sides of the ham. This will ensure maximum flavor coverage and create a beautiful presentation.

Step 5: Sprinkle the Final Sugar Layer

Shower the remaining brown sugar over the ham and pineapple slices. The sugar will melt and create a gorgeous, sticky glaze that caramelizes during cooking.

Step 6: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Let the ham cook slowly, allowing the flavors to meld together and the meat to become incredibly tender and juicy.

Step 7: Check for Doneness

After several hours, check that the ham is heated through and has reached a rich, golden-brown color. The pineapple and brown sugar will have created a irresistible glaze.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Remove the ham from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful. Plate the ham with the caramelized pineapple slices for a stunning presentation.

Tips That Help With Crock Pot Brown Sugar Ham With Pineapple Recipe

• Enhance Sweetness: Spread brown sugar generously to create a delightful caramelized coating that infuses the ham with rich, deep flavor.
• Maximize Moisture: Layer pineapple slices strategically to keep the ham juicy and tender throughout slow cooking.
• Prevent Burning: Use slow cooker liner or lightly grease the pot to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
• Boost Flavor Profile: Consider adding whole cloves or cinnamon sticks between pineapple slices for an extra aromatic dimension.
• Customize Serving: Let ham rest for 15-20 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is perfectly succulent.

How To Store Crock Pot Brown Sugar Ham With Pineapple Recipe

• Refrigerate leftover ham within two hours of cooking to maintain its freshness and quality.
• Store sliced ham in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
• Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days, ensuring the meat stays moist and delicious.
• Freeze extra portions in sealed freezer bags for longer storage, where the ham will remain good for up to 2 months.
• When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to restore moisture and prevent the meat from becoming tough or stringy.

Pairing Ideas For Crock Pot Brown Sugar Ham With Pineapple Recipe

• Complement the Ham's Sweetness: Pair this tender ham with a crisp Riesling that balances the brown sugar's caramelized notes, cutting through the richness while enhancing the pineapple's tropical brightness.
• Elevate with Contrasting Sides: Serve roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon bits to add a savory, slightly bitter element that creates delightful contrast against the ham's sweet glaze.
• Match with Hearty Starches: Whip up creamy mashed potatoes or a buttery potato gratin to provide a smooth, rich accompaniment that absorbs the ham's delicious juices and brown sugar sauce.
• Refresh with Zesty Salad: Create a light mixed green salad with mandarin oranges and a citrus vinaigrette to bring a fresh, tangy counterpoint to the ham's decadent flavor profile.

Fun Twists On Crock Pot Brown Sugar Ham With Pineapple Recipe

• Maple Glazed Version: Swap brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a rich, woodsy flavor that caramelizes beautifully during slow cooking. This variation adds a Canadian-inspired sweetness to the traditional ham.
• Citrus Infusion: Replace pineapple slices with fresh orange segments and zest, creating a bright, tangy profile that cuts through the ham's richness. The citrus elements bring a Mediterranean-style brightness to the dish.
• Spicy Honey Approach: Mix honey with a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika before layering in the crock pot. This combination introduces a gentle heat that complements the ham's natural smokiness, offering a more complex taste experience.
• Herb-Infused Technique: Sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary between sugar and fruit layers to add an aromatic depth. Dried herbs work equally well, providing a subtle earthy undertone that elevates the ham's traditional flavor profile.

FAQs On Crock Pot Brown Sugar Ham With Pineapple Recipe

• Can I use a different type of ham for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in or boneless ham. Just ensure it fits comfortably in your crock pot and adjust cooking time based on the ham’s weight.

• Do I need to add water to the crock pot?

No, the ham will release its own juices, and the pineapple adds moisture. This helps create a delicious, self-basting environment for the ham.

• Is it okay to use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh pineapple works great and can add a brighter, more vibrant flavor to the dish. Just slice it evenly so it covers the ham well.

• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ham in the morning and let it cook on low for several hours, making it perfect for holiday meals or busy days when you want a hassle-free dinner.

Crock Pot Brown Sugar Ham With Pineapple Recipe

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4.6 from 16 reviews

• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Succulent Crock Pot Brown Sugar Ham with Pineapple delivers holiday magic straight from Southern kitchens. Glazed perfection meets tender meat, guaranteeing delicious memories for family gatherings with minimal effort.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 1 (6-8 lb / 2.7-3.6 kg) fully cooked spiral-cut ham

Sweeteners and Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 cup (200 g) brown sugar (light or dark)
• ½ cup (120 ml) honey (or maple syrup)
• 1 can (20 oz / 567 g) pineapple slices, with juice reserved
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional for a slight tang)

Spices and Garnish:

• 1 teaspoon ground cloves (optional for added warmth)
• Fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Create a foundational layer of brown sugar across the bottom of the slow cooker, ensuring even distribution.
2. Arrange a delicate carpet of pineapple slices directly atop the sugar, overlapping gently to maximize coverage.
3. Carefully position the ham in the center of the crock pot, allowing the sugary pineapple base to cradle the meat.
4. Generously sprinkle the remaining brown sugar over the entire surface of the ham, creating a rich, caramelizing coating.
5. Strategically place the remaining pineapple slices around and on top of the ham, allowing the fruit’s natural juices to infuse and tenderize the meat.
6. Drizzle the reserved pineapple juice evenly across the ham, enhancing moisture and deepening the flavor profile.
7. Cover the crock pot and set to low heat, allowing the ham to slow-cook and absorb the sweet, tropical essence for several hours.
8. Periodically baste the ham with its own developing sauce, encouraging a glossy, caramelized exterior.
9. Once the ham reaches the desired internal temperature and develops a rich, golden-brown glaze, carefully transfer to a serving platter.
10. Let the ham rest briefly before slicing, allowing the juices to redistribute and ensure maximum tenderness.

Notes

• Enhance the ham’s sweetness by selecting a high-quality, bone-in ham for maximum flavor and tenderness.
• Create a perfect caramelized exterior by gently patting the ham dry before adding brown sugar to ensure better sugar adherence.
• Optimize moisture retention by placing pineapple slices strategically, allowing natural juices to infuse the meat while preventing dryness during slow cooking.
• Adapt for dietary restrictions by using a low-sugar alternative like monk fruit sweetener or coconut sugar for a diabetic-friendly version of the recipe.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 36 g
• Sodium: 920 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 12 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg