A Slow Cooker Masterpiece

If you’re looking for a dish that marries sweet, savory, and just the right amount of spice, this Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham is your answer. Perfect for holiday gatherings, Sunday dinners, or even a weeknight indulgence, this recipe brings out the best in a slow-cooked ham using pantry staples and tropical fruit flair. It’s a no-fuss, high-flavor dish that practically cooks itself — ideal for busy home cooks who still want to put something special on the table.

Whether you’re hosting Easter brunch, a festive Christmas dinner, or simply craving something comforting and rich, this ham delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. The combination of brown sugar and crushed pineapple, spiced gently with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, transforms a simple ham into a juicy, caramelized centerpiece that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham

This recipe is a game-changer for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices alike. It’s incredibly simple — just a few minutes of prep, then let your slow cooker work its magic. The brown sugar melts into the pineapple juice and spices, creating a sticky-sweet glaze that seeps deep into the ham, infusing it with flavor and keeping it deliciously moist.

Here’s what makes this recipe a must-try:

Minimal Prep: Only a few ingredients and five minutes of hands-on work.
Perfect for Entertaining: Feeds a crowd and looks impressive on the table.
Set It and Forget It: The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting.
Customizable: You can easily tweak the spices or even add a glaze finish in the oven for a caramelized crust.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 (8-9 pound) fully cooked ham
1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, divided
1 cup brown sugar
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground ginger

These simple ingredients work together to create a balanced, tropical-spiced flavor profile that complements the natural saltiness of the ham beautifully.

How to Make Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham in the Slow Cooker

Step 1: Prepare the Ham
Place your ham in the slow cooker and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps the sugar and spice mixture adhere better to the surface.

Step 2: Add the Pineapple
Pour half of the crushed pineapple, along with its juices, over the ham. The juice will mix with the brown sugar and create a luscious glaze.

Step 3: Mix and Add the Sugar-Spice Blend
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the ham.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on LOW for 3 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and the ham to heat gently without drying out.

Step 5: Serve with Reserved Pineapple
Before serving, spoon the remaining pineapple over the ham for added texture, sweetness, and presentation.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make this delicious Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham, you’ll need:

Large slow cooker (6-7 quart capacity)
Small mixing bowl
Measuring spoons
Measuring cup
Paper towels
Serving spoon or tongs
Carving knife or electric slicer

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Use a bone-in ham for extra flavor and better moisture retention.
Don’t overcook — since the ham is already cooked, you’re just warming it through and infusing flavor.
Craving more caramelization? Transfer the cooked ham to a baking sheet, brush with the juices from the slow cooker, and broil for 3-5 minutes.
No slow cooker? No problem. You can bake the ham covered at 325°F for 1.5–2 hours, basting occasionally.

Ingredient Swaps and Variations

Maple syrup can be used in place of brown sugar for a deeper, richer sweetness.
Add whole cloves into the scored ham before cooking for a spiced holiday feel.
Swap crushed pineapple for pineapple rings if you want a retro, decorative look.
Add a dash of orange juice for a citrus twist.
Make it spicy with a touch of chili powder or cayenne in the sugar blend.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers? Lucky you!
Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

To reheat:

In the microwave: Place slices in a microwave-safe dish with a spoonful of juices. Cover loosely and heat in 30-second intervals.
In the oven: Place slices in a baking dish, add a splash of juice or broth, cover with foil, and warm at 300°F for about 15-20 minutes.

Perfect Pairings

Here are a few side dishes and drinks that pair beautifully with this sweet and savory ham:

Sides:

Creamy mashed potatoes
Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze
Macaroni and cheese
Honey-glazed carrots
Buttery dinner rolls

Drinks:

Sparkling apple cider
Pinot noir or a lightly chilled rosé
Sweet tea or spiced apple punch

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use a spiral ham?
Absolutely! Spiral hams work beautifully in this recipe. Just be careful when removing it from the slow cooker, as the slices can separate easily.

Q: Can I cook it on high instead of low?
You can, but slow cooking on LOW is best to keep the ham tender and juicy. If you’re short on time, cook on HIGH for 1.5–2 hours.

Q: Should I cover the ham with foil inside the slow cooker?
Not necessary. The lid of the slow cooker traps enough moisture, and the pineapple juice will keep the ham moist.

Q: Can I use fresh pineapple?
Yes, fresh pineapple works too! Just make sure to include enough juice (add a splash of water or pineapple juice if needed) to keep the ham moist.

Q: Can I use pineapple chunks instead of crushed?
Yes, but crushed pineapple distributes more evenly across the ham and blends better with the sugar and spices.

Final Thoughts

This Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham is a total showstopper with just five minutes of prep and a few hours in the slow cooker. It’s proof that elegant, flavorful meals don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday or just need a new go-to for dinner, this ham is destined to become a favorite in your rotation.

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