Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham is a total breeze with just three ingredients and no oven space to lose!
If you love this yummy pineapple recipe, you’re going to love these other Dinner recipes that incorporate the flavors of citrus, like the popular Baked Orange Chicken, the mouthwatering Lemon Pepper Honey Fried Chicken, and one of the gameday favorites: Slow Cooker Meatball Pineapple Smokies.
Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham is a popular holiday season meal because it frees up oven space while you’re busy working the oven to the max! The allure of the Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham lies not just in its tantalizing flavors and ease of cooking, but in its rich historical backdrop. Hams have been central to celebrations for centuries, a symbol of prosperity and festive feasting. Combined with the tropical sweetness of pineapple and the caramel undertones of brown sugar, this dish becomes a decadent blend of tradition and innovation. Everyone loves slow cooker ham. This recipe takes it up a notch! Slow cooking not only retains the meat’s moisture but ensures that the flavors are deeply infused, making every bite a delicious experience.
In many ways, the Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham embodies the spirit of a festive celebration: traditional yet adaptable, sweet yet savory, and above all, shared with loved ones. Its simplicity ensures that even novice chefs can create a memorable dish, while its versatility allows seasoned cooks to experiment and make it their own. A similar recipe is Bourbon Glazed Ham, another delectable treat for those special occasions.
How to Make Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity and the genius use of the slow cooker to achieve a moist, flavorful ham. No fuss, just set, and forget! Check it out!
- Step One: Begin by placing the spiral-sliced ham into the Slow Cooker or crock pot. If needed, trim the base of the ham so it fits comfortably within.
- Step Two: Top the ham with crushed pineapple bits, ensuring even distribution. Sprinkle over two cups of brown sugar. Add the brown sugar in layers because the first half will melt in the slow cooker.
- Step Three: Set the slow cooker on low, and allow the ham to cook for 2-3 hours. Once done, cover the ham with the remaining brown sugar before serving. If you want a crispier ham you can finish it in the oven at 375 degrees for 20 minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
A spiral-sliced ham is recommended as it allows for even cooking and better absorption of the pineapple and brown sugar mixture.
Canned crushed pineapple bits are perfect as they contain their juices, enhancing the ham’s sweetness. If not available, fresh pineapple pulsed in a blender can be a substitute.
Brown sugar contains molasses which provides a deep, rich caramel flavor, complementing the savory ham and sweet pineapple.
Absolutely! An oven can be used, but cooking times and temperatures will vary. Always ensure the ham’s internal temperature reaches 140°F. See below for more info on how to do this.
The combined juices of the pineapple and the melted brown sugar will form a light glaze. If a thicker sauce is desired, it can be simmered separately.
Absolutely! A bone-in ham can be used in this Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham recipe. In fact, many believe that bone-in hams often result in a juicier, more flavorful end product due to the bone marrow’s contribution to the cooking process. However, be aware that a bone-in ham might require a slightly longer cooking time than a boneless ham. Make sure you adjust the ham to fit your slow cooker, and check for doneness periodically. The bone can also make carving a bit more challenging, but the flavor payoff is often worth the extra effort.
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Key Ingredients in Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
The charm of the Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham lies in its simplicity and the choice of key ingredients that complement each other perfectly. Plus, everything can be easily found in your local grocery store! Here’s a breakdown:
- Ham: Spiral sliced hams are optimal for this dish, as the slices allow for even flavor absorption. Plus, they are already fully cooked which is why it only takes 2 hours to cook it to perfection, instead of an uncooked ham which can take 6 hours or more!
- Pineapple: The tropical sweetness of Crushed Pineapple tidbits contrasts with the ham’s saltiness, providing a burst of flavor. Plus, the pineapple juice help keep the ham moist! You can use the canned pineapple chunks that come in the can no matter the size, as long as they are cut up and not pineapple rings.
- Brown Sugar: Brown sugar offers a caramel undertone, deepening the taste profile and complementing the pineapple’s acidity.
Oven Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
For those without a slow cooker, the oven is a fantastic alternative. Preheat your oven to 325°F. Follow the same preparation steps and place your ham in a roasting pan. Cover with foil and bake for about 15 minutes per pound or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F.
Can Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Be Made Ahead of Time?
Certainly! You can prepare the ham a day in advance. After the slow cooking process, allow it to cool and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, warm it in the slow cooker or oven. Add the final brown sugar glaze just before serving to retain its freshness and texture.
Substitutions in Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
- Ham: If spiral-sliced ham isn’t available, a regular bone-in ham will suffice. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Pineapple: Fresh pineapple, finely chopped or pulsed in a blender, can replace canned pineapple bits.
- Brown Sugar: You can easily substitute with white sugar. To make the molasses-heavy flavor, mix two cups of white sugar with 4 tablespoons of molasses to make your own!
- Traditional Glaze: If you wish for a more traditional glaze, you can heat brown sugar, honey, mustard, and some spices in a saucepan until it turns syrupy and brush it over the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Remember, the key is to frequently baste the ham with its juices and the glaze to get that rich, shiny finish.
Variations on Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
Looking for a twist? Here’s how you can customize the recipe:
- Spiced Variation: Introduce a touch of warmth by adding ground cinnamon or cloves.
- Tropical Delight: Mix in some shredded coconut and a half cup of orange juice with the brown sugar for an added tropical flair. Maraschino cherries are of course a fun and welcome addition!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
Hams are a festive centerpiece that pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. To complement the sweet and savory flavors of this Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham, consider the following accompaniments:
- Scalloped Potatoes: Creamy, cheesy, and delicious, scalloped potatoes are a classic pairing with ham.
- Green Bean Casserole: This light and fresh side dish with a hint of crunch is the perfect counterpoint to the richness of the ham.
- Ham and Bean Soup: You can use any extra or leftover ham for this flavorful recipe.
- Homemade Cranberry Sauce:
- Pineapple Upside Down Cake: Have some extra pineapple? This would tie in nicely with the pineapple in your ham glaze, providing a thematic consistency to your meal.
- Pecan Pie: The nutty and sweet profile of a pecan pie is a delightful way to round off a meal starring this ham.
How to Store Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
- Serve: Leave the ham at room temperature for up to 2 hours post-cooking. Refrigerate if not consumed within this time.
- Store: After cooling, wrap the ham tightly or use an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days. Reheat at 275°F in the oven for 15 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Freeze: For longer storage, wrap portions and freeze. Best used within 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating. Pineapple texture may alter slightly when frozen and reheated.
Ingredients
- 1 spiral sliced ham 8-10 pounds
- 1 can crushed pineapple bits 20 ounces (include the juice)
- 2 cups brown sugar
Instructions
- Add the ham to the slow cooker, trimming off the bottom as needed to fit it into the slow cooker. Keep the trimmed pieces around it in the slow cooker.
- Add the pineapple bits to your ham then cover with one cup of the brown sugar.
- Cook covered and on low for 2-3 hours, then you can keep warm during your party.
- Cover with remaining cup of brown sugar before serving.
Nutrition
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Photos used in a previous version of this post.
Do you cover the ham? It doesn’t say.
Yes, it needs to be covered. So the first step of trimming the ham to make it fit is super important.
Hello, I’d like to make this recipe for thanksgiving! I’ve never made a ham before.
Did you use a bone-in or boneless ham?
Your use of the brown sugar in the directions is very confusing. Put 1 cup on at the beginning, but does the second cup get any cooking time? Sabrina was told to add 1/2 cup in the second instruction. Doesn’t make sense.
Meant to say Tiffani not Sabrina.
When do you add the remaining brown sugar? After it is on plate, or at end while still in the crockpot? Looking forward to trying this but as you can tell by my question I’m no cook!?
Hi sorry, I am a little confused by your question. Its 1/2 cup brown sugar added in the 2nd instruction. You would add all of it.
Am I supposed to cover the ham with the slow cooker lid, as it warms?
Hi Sabrina,
Do you add water to the slow cooker? I was given a used slow cooker but no manual and don’t know how to use it. Please advise.
No need to add anything additional to what the recipe states. The ham will cook down and release liquid. Just a tip though, sometimes you can key into google the type of slow cooker you have and find an online manual, if you need one. I’ve done that for other products that I’ve lost the original for. Enjoy!
Hello- making this for Xmas dinner and wanted to know when to apply the glaze as most hams come with a glaze to add on… thank you
I don’t use the glaze packet that comes with the ham.
HELP When should the skin be cut off the ham?
I actually don’t cut off the skin the ham at all. It adds such great flavor and texture.
Hello! Making this for Christmas morning and wondering what to do with the glaze that comes with the ham. At what point would you think its best I add it?
This recipe has so much flavor, I wouldn’t add the glaze from the packet. Merry Christmas!
How long do you suggest for an 11 pound, precooked ham in the crock pot. I see cooking times varying from 2-3 hours to 4-5 hours.
I’d say 4, that’s what I would naturally test at first if trying a ham that size. Happy Thanksgiving!
Great….thank you so much and Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family.
My pleasure. 🙂
I would like to say this is the best “HAM” recipe that you can make. The best for Easter Sunday dinner. I had the pleasure of using this recipe to make a 9 pound “HAM” and ask me if we have any left! NOT! Just know this is the best “HAM” ever! Try It!
Hahaha, I am guessing you liked it? Also wow, you guys managed to eat 9 pounds even this year! That is impressive! Thank you so much for the positive review!
Our ham isn’t ore-sliced…can we still follow this recipe and just slice at the end?
Yes, but a lot of the flavor is in the seasoning cooking between the slices. You are going to have significantly less flavor in the unsliced ham. I would carefully slice it ahead of time.
Can you use a boneless pre-sliced ham? Sounds good.
Thanks
Yes 🙂
when and how would you add whole cloves?
Thank you.
Score the ham and add whole cloves in the crossings. Enjoy!
Only 2 hours on low? Most slow cooker recipes I’m seeing 6-8 hours, making this tomorrow and hoping not to undercook!
Your spiral cut ham is fully cooked. So the two hours is simply to warm through and cook your topping. Don’t be worried about undercooking, just look for the topping to be melted, the meat should be heated through. If you want to be safe you could do three hours, but I’ve made this several times with 2 hours on low. Hope you enjoy it!
Did you use bread crumbs?
I did not, that is the brown sugar 🙂
Where does it say to use ginger ale?
I don’t have it….could I use 7 Up?
Also…..could you use pineapple juice instead of the crushed pineapple? A few of my grandkids might not eat it if they see pineapple pieces.
Thanks
I didn’t use ginger ale or 7 up for this recipe. Just follow the ingredients in the recipe card. 🙂 Enjoy!
This soup is so delicious! It was quick, easy and turned out perfectly. The only thing I added was a little cayenne pepper. This will become a regular for us. Thank you very much!
I’m so glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for coming back to let me know!
I made this recipe twice, it came out perfect the first ham, non sprial, the second was very dry, sprial. I think that using a non spiral ham is the best way to go. The non spiral ham was so juicy. Maybe if using a spiral ham, only cook it half the time.
Is this a pre-cooked ham or not?
Yes, pre-cooked. Enjoy!
This recipe looks great and I’m excited to make it for Thanksgiving! My hubby bought the can of ring shaped pineapple slices, not crushed. I plan to crush and use, do you drain the juice??
I’m so bummed that I’m just now seeing this! This was caught in my spam filter.
You can just dump the whole can into the slow cooker. I hope you enjoyed it!
Do you place the ham on it’s side, bone side down, etc.? Just wanting to make sure I do this correctly. This recipe looks so delicious.
Thank you so much!! You’ll want the ham to be facing up in the slow cooker (as the picture shows). You may need to trim the bone so it fits. Hope this helps!
Do you put spiral ham face down?
No, you want it facing up so you may need to trim the bottom to make it fit into the slow cooker.
Your food photographer is BRILLIANT! 🙂 It all looks so wonderful; Pinning & sharing my favorites are fun here!
I’m the photographer, so thanks! 🙂
Yes!! Thank you so much for this recipe! Making this tomorrow for Easter! Can’t wait to eat it, your pictures make my mouth water!! Excuse me while I wipe the drool from my mouth!!
Haha, enjoy!
Welp, I made this yesterday for Easter and let me tell you the family RAVED and RAVED about it!! My husband declared this is the best and ONLY way ham should be made from now on!! So thank you for this super simple and easy recipe!
Yay!! This makes me so happy!! Your husband sounds like a smart man!!
I am trying this right now! Not only does it sound and look delicious but I have a broken arm and it was SO easy and quick that I made it with one arm-lol! You just can’t get any better than this! Thanks very much! ??
I didn’t mean to add those ?? Lol,
You’re welcome! I hope you have a fast recovery!
can i use a different type of ham? We’re not fans of spiral ham
Yes, of course. Enjoy!
I’ll buy my husband and me a ham just to try this recipe! It looks yumsters! After I read – I thought carefully – about the gingerale and not seeing it.I was crazy! But it sure sounded great. I cannot wait to try it…well, I can wait to try it…but it sounds tasty!
Fantastic! You’ll have to come back and let me know what you thought after trying it….don’t wait too long!! 🙂
That brown sugar….YUM! This is making my mouth water!
I made this for Easter this year and it was divine! Thank you!
Fantastic…So glad you loved it!
This looks delicious! I am going to have to grab a ham and make this soon!
Definitely!
This looks really good! I would love to try this! My family loves ham especially my kids! 😀
It’s a hit with my kids too!
Thank you for this post! I came across it searching for baked ham as I bought my pineapple, brown sugar and for got the gingerale!! as this was how my Mother always baked her Easter Hams, I got to tell you it made a hit!! never even noticed and was asked if I did something different as the Ham was delicious and juicy, I think I’ll forget the gingerale for now on as it was a step up from other hams I baked with gingerale !! Thank You again and a very Happy Easter To your Family from ours…..
How awesome! I think it was fate then and so happy to hear you received rave reviews from your guests. Thank you for taking the time to come back and let me know 🙂
Sabrina, I can haedly wait to try Brown Sugar Ham recipeyour Slow Cooker Pineapple and Brown Sugar
Ham Recipe. I am also looking forward to receiving you e-Cookbook, Thank you, Edna
You’ll have to come back and let me know what you think.
I just love how easy this is to make! 🙂
Definitely! Let your slow cooker do the work.
This is such a classic recipe. I love how you make it. Looks delish!
Thanks Michelle!