Secretly Easy Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham (Always Perfect!)

The Quiet Holiday Morning: Making the Best Slow Cooker Pineapple Brown Sugar Spiral Ham

The sky outside Bend, Oregon, was the color of scraped pewter this morning, hinting at the snow we know is coming soon. The air inside our house holds that specific chill that makes you instinctively reach for the warmest fuzzy socks and a hot mug of coffee. It’s these quiet moments, usually reserved for the holidays or a cool Sunday, that call for a dish that feels grand but demands absolutely nothing of your time. I’m talking about the legendary Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham. If you are searching for the secret to the best holiday ham, I promise you, it lives here, simmering softly and releasing the scent of caramelized brown sugar and tangy pineapple, turning your kitchen into the warmest spot on the West Coast.

Ethan, my husband and forever photographer, often jokes that the Crock Pot is the appliance that saves our sanity during big family gatherings. While I adore the ritual of a blazing oven, the truth is, when Olivia is asking for help with a science project and James needs a quick soccer transport, the idea of an easy crockpot meal that looks like a masterpiece is precisely what I reach for. This recipe is exactly that: zero stress, maximum flavor, proving that the best slow cooker ham for holidays doesn’t require slaving over a hot oven.

This method for slow cooker brown sugar pineapple spiral ham is derived from my grandmother’s iconic, yet laborious, oven glaze, simplified for the modern kitchen. We take a fully cooked ham, generally a 6-8 pound spiral cut ham pineapple glaze is best, coat it in a sticky, sweet mixture of dark brown sugar, butter, and that unmistakable canned pineapple juice. The long, low heat of the slow cooker does something magical. It doesn’t just reheat the ham, it actively infuses every glorious, pre-sliced layer with the sweet and sour glaze, turning the meat impossibly tender and keeping it moist, which can be a real struggle with traditional oven roasting.

If you’re planning a Sunday dinner, Easter brunch, or even just need a spectacular weeknight meal with minimal fuss (ham leftovers are the best for quick meals, trust me!), using the slow cooker for your ham is the ultimate culinary kindness. No basting necessary, no oven space taken up (a lifesaver when you have seven side dishes going!). Whether you call it crock pot brown sugar pineapple ham recipe or simply ‘The Good Ham,’ this is the keeper recipe you’ve been looking for. It takes hardly any time to get this easy crockpot ham with pineapple and brown sugar started, leaving you free to enjoy the cozy Oregon afternoons.

Table of Contents

• Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
• Ingredients for Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
• How to Make Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
• Pro Tips & Variations of Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
• Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Serving Suggestions
• Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Storage & Reheating
• FAQ about Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
• Final Thoughts

Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham

As an American Food Writer, my focus is always on simplifying complex flavors without sacrificing that deep, nourishing satisfaction. This slow cooker ham epitomizes that philosophy. It’s perfect for the busy home cook who still wants a show-stopping result.

• Effortlessly Moist: The high moisture environment of the slow cooker prevents the ham from drying out, delivering fork-tender results every time. Forget those tough, charred oven hams.
• The Perfect Glaze: By using a mixture of brown sugar ham and pineapples, you create a self-basting, sticky glaze that perfectly penetrates the layers of the pre-cooked spiral ham.
• Hands-Free Cooking: This is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it recipe. You just need 10 minutes of prep, allowing you to focus on peeling potatoes or pouring yourself a second cup of coffee.
• Huge Flavor Punch: The combination of sweet brown sugar, tangy pineapple, and optional hints of spice creates a complex, irresistible flavor profile that is classic for any holiday ham.
• Oven Space Saver: Free up your main oven for casseroles, roasted vegetables, or the Crock Pot Creamy Chicken recipes that also need time.
  

  Ingredients for Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham

  The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You likely have most of the glaze ingredients in your pantry right now. I always opt for the pre-cooked, spiral cut ham, as it allows the glaze to seep deeply into the meat while it cooks. This recipe is perfectly adapted from high-performing versions seen on sites like Dinner Then Dessert, ensuring peak holiday flavor.

  • Pre-Cooked Spiral Ham: 6 to 8 pounds. Bone-in works best for flavor, but boneless is fine if preferred.
  • Brown Sugar: 1 1/2 cups packed. Dark brown sugar provides a deeper molasses note, but light works too. This is the heart of the brown sugar ham glaze.
  • Pineapple: One 20 oz can of pineapple tidbits or chunks, undrained. The juice is vital for the liquid base of the glaze.
  • Maple Syrup: 1/4 cup. Pure maple syrup adds a depth of warmth that granulated sugar can’t touch.
  • Dijon Mustard: 2 tablespoons. This tiny addition provides the crucial savory balance against all the sweetness. Don’t skip it, it keeps the flavor complex!
  • Spices (Optional but Recommended): 1 teaspoon ground cloves and 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger. These add to the traditional niche keyword holiday profile.

  

  How to Make Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham

  Setting up this slow cooker brown sugar pineapple ham is so fast, you’ll spend more time choosing the right sized crock pot than you will prepping the meal. Remember, the goal is always maximum flavor for minimal labor.

  Step-by-Step Instructions for Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham

  1. Prepare the Crock Pot: If your ham is large (7+ lbs), you may need to slice a small wedge off the bottom or sides so it fits. For a smaller crockpot ham (4-6 lbs), it should fit easily. Use a slow cooker liner for painless cleanup, especially with sticky glazes.
  2. Mix the Glaze: In a medium bowl, combine the packed brown sugar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and the ground spices (if using). Add the entire can of pineapple chunks (or tidbits), including all the juice, stirring until the mixture is thick and sticky, like wet sand.
  3. Apply the Glaze: Place the spiral ham cut-side down into the well of the slow cooker. This position helps keep the ham moist. Generously spoon about 1/3 of the glaze mixture evenly over the top of the ham, making sure it seeps down into the pre-cut slices. Pour the remaining glaze around the base of the ham, allowing it to pool beneath.
  4. Slow Cook: Cover the crock pot and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours. The ham is already fully cooked, so we are essentially just heating it through and ensuring the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) while marrying those glorious flavors. For an easy crockpot ham with pineapple and brown sugar that needs to be done faster, you can cook on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours, but LOW is always preferred for tenderness.
  5. Baste and Rest: During the last 30 minutes of cooking, carefully open the lid (watch out for steam!). Spoon the glaze mixture from the bottom of the pot over the top of the ham again. Once ready, remove the ham from the slow cooker and let it rest on a cutting board, covered with foil, for 10-15 minutes before serving.
  6. Make the Sauce (Optional but Recommended): While the ham rests, you can thicken the pot liquid into a gorgeous serving sauce. Transfer the liquid into a small saucepan and bring it to a simmer. Whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) until the sauce thickens slightly into a glossy, sweet finish. Serve alongside large slices of your perfect Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham.

  Pro Tips & Variations of Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham

  Over the years of making this recipe in Bend, I’ve learned a few tricks to make it even easier and more flavorful. Remember, the goal is to create the best slow cooker ham for holidays with minimum fuss!

  • Choose the Right Size: A 6 to 8-pound ham is ideal for a standard 6-quart crock pot. If your ham is larger than 10 pounds, you may need a turkey roasting bag inside the cooker to help lift it, or you may need to cut it into halves to ensure slow cooking success, especially if aiming for the ideal temperature of 140°F.
  • Using Dry Spices: If you don’t have ground cloves or ginger, you can stud the ham with whole cloves before glazing. The steam from the slow cooker ham will infuse them beautifully. Ethan loves the look of the cloves embedded in the ham, says it makes the photography easier.
  • The Maple Syrup Swap: For a deeper, more robust flavor, try substituting the maple syrup with 1/4 cup of dark honey. This creates a spectacular honey brown sugar crockpot ham variation that is particularly popular in my family.
  • Caramelization Cheat: If you like that crispy, caramelized, crusty edge typically associated with oven-baked hams (like on this version from My Incredible Recipes), simply place the cooked ham under the broiler for 3-5 minutes before serving. Be sure to glaze it heavily one last time before broiling. Watch it closely, as the sugar burns fast!
  • Alternative Juices: Instead of the pineapple juice, try using 1/2 cup of apple cider or orange juice for a slightly different, equally delicious citrus note. This keeps the ham incredibly moist while achieving a sweeter profile.

  Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Serving Suggestions

  This sweet, savory main dish is incredibly versatile, fitting perfectly on a holiday table or as the centerpiece of a Sunday dinner. For balance, think creamy, cheesy, and green.

  • Creamy Potato Dishes: Nothing pairs better with the salty-sweetness of pineapple ham than something rich. Creamy mashed potatoes, scalloped potatoes, or even baked sweet potatoes with butter and a little cinnamon are perfect companions.
  • Green Veggies: Keep it simple with steamed asparagus, green beans almonds, or a crispy, cold side salad to cut through the richness of the ham.
  • Breads: A crusty artisan loaf for sopping up any extra pineapple glaze is non-negotiable.
  • Family Favorites: We always serve this alongside a classic Crock Pot Chuck Roast when we need a second main protein for a crowd.

  Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Storage & Reheating

  One of the best reasons to prepare a large pineapple ham is the glorious abundance of leftovers. Ethan loves slicing the cold ham thin for sandwiches, and James insists on making ham and cheese sliders with the remainder.

  • Storage (Fridge): Store leftover ham (cut into manageable slices) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Store any leftover glaze mixture separately.
  • Storage (Freezer): Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible. Frozen ham is best used within 2-3 months.
  • Reheating: The best way to reheat ham is low and slow to maintain moisture. Wrap slices in foil and bake at 300°F (150°C) until warm, or add a splash of the reserved sauce and gently heat in a skillet on the stovetop. Avoid microwaving, as it can quickly dry out the edges.

  FAQ about Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham

  Can I use a bone-in ham or is a boneless ham better for the crock pot?

  I highly recommend using a bone-in spiral ham. While boneless is fine, the bone adds incredible moisture and depth of flavor throughout the long cooking process, which is essential for the best slow cooker ham for holidays. The spiral cut allows the delicious brown sugar pineapple glaze to sink deep between the slices.

  Do I need to score the ham before placing it in the slow cooker?

  If you are using a pre-sliced spiral cut ham, no. The slices serve as your scoring, letting the glaze permeate the meat easily. If you are using a whole, unsliced ham, you should definitely score the fat layer in a diamond pattern before applying the glaze to ensure maximum flavor absorption and a spectacular presentation.

  My glaze looks very thin, should I add more cornstarch?

  It’s normal for the glaze to be thin while cooking in the crock pot because the ham releases moisture. The glaze needs liquid to baste the ham during the slow cook process. If you want a thick, sticky glaze for serving, follow the optional step (Step 6) in the instructions to thicken the sauce on the stovetop afterwards with a cornstarch slurry. This is the secret to getting that gorgeous, sticky finish on your crock pot brown sugar pineapple ham recipe.

  What should the internal temperature of the ham be when it’s done heating?

  Since most hams are pre-cooked, you are simply reheating it to a safe serving temperature. The ham is ready when the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Overcooking will dry it out, so relying on a meat thermometer is critical for perfect results.

  Final Thoughts

  The culinary journey is often about finding that perfect balance of tradition and ease. This Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham gives us that, gifting us back precious time with our family while smelling utterly divine. When I look at those golden, glazed slices, I don’t see hours of labor, I just see the table set and the kids laughing. That, to me, is the real flavor of home cooking here in Bend, Oregon. If you love using your slow cooker as much as I do, check out more fantastic options, like my famous easy creamy keto crockpot chicken recipe. Happy cooking, friends.

  

  katya bou

  Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham

  A tender, flavorful spiral ham infused with sweet brown sugar and tangy pineapple glaze, cooked effortlessly in the slow cooker for the perfect holiday or weeknight meal.

  Print Recipe Pin Recipe

  Prep Time 10 minutes mins

  Cook Time 5 hours hrs

  Total Time 5 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

  Servings: 12 servings

  Course: Main Course

  Cuisine: American

  Calories: 450

  Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

  Ingredients

    

  1x2x3x?

  For the Glaze

  • 6-8 lbs Pre-Cooked Spiral Ham bone-in preferred for flavor
  • 1 1/2 cups Brown Sugar packed, dark brown preferred
  • 20 oz Pineapple canned tidbits or chunks, undrained
  • 1/4 cup Maple Syrup pure maple syrup
  • 2 tbsp Dijon Mustard for savory balance
  • 1 tsp Ground Cloves optional
  • 1/2 tsp Ground Ginger optional
  • 1 tbsp Cornstarch for optional sauce thickening

  Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Mixing bowl
  • small saucepan,

  Method

   

  Prepare the Crock Pot

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the packed brown sugar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and the ground spices (if using). Add the entire can of pineapple chunks (or tidbits), including all the juice, stirring until the mixture is thick and sticky, like wet sand.
  2. Place the spiral ham cut-side down into the well of the slow cooker. Generously spoon about 1/3 of the glaze mixture evenly over the top of the ham, making sure it seeps down into the pre-cut slices. Pour the remaining glaze around the base of the ham, allowing it to pool beneath.
  3. Cover the crock pot and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours. The ham is already fully cooked, so we are essentially just heating it through and ensuring the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) while marrying those glorious flavors.
  4. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, carefully open the lid (watch out for steam!). Spoon the glaze mixture from the bottom of the pot over the top of the ham again. Once ready, remove the ham from the slow cooker and let it rest on a cutting board, covered with foil, for 10-15 minutes before serving.
  5. While the ham rests, transfer the liquid into a small saucepan and bring it to a simmer. Whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) until the sauce thickens slightly into a glossy, sweet finish. Serve alongside large slices of ham.

  Nutrition

  Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 35gFat: 25g

  Notes

  For best results, use a 6-quart slow cooker. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 2-3 months. Reheat gently to maintain moisture. If ham is too large, trim to fit or use a roasting bag.

  Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!