Irresistible Crock Pot Brown Sugar Ham with Pineapple Recipe

Intro and Brief Recap

Imagine walking into your home on a chilly evening, where the rich aroma of sweet and savory ham mingling with the warmth of pineapple fills the air. This is the magic of Crock Pot Brown Sugar Ham with Pineapple, a dish that combines tender, succulent ham with a luscious glaze that is both sweet and tangy. You can practically taste the harmony of flavors just by thinking about it, making this meal a perfect centerpiece for family dinners or holiday gatherings.

Growing up, my family always made this dish for special occasions, turning every gathering into a celebration. The anticipation built as we waited for the slow cooker to do its magic. Each slice revealed juicy, flavorful ham coated in a caramelized brown sugar glaze, complemented by the tropical sweetness of pineapple. Whether it’s Easter, Thanksgiving, or just a cozy dinner, this recipe never fails to impress and bring everyone together around the table. Prepare to delight your senses and create lasting memories with this mouthwatering dish!

Key Ingredients For Crock Pot Brown Sugar Ham with Pineapple

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Bone-In Ham: A bone-in ham adds flavor and moisture; aim for one that’s around 8-10 pounds for best results.
• Brown Sugar: Use light brown sugar for sweetness; it helps create that perfect caramelization during cooking.
• Pineapple Chunks: Fresh or canned pineapples work well; they bring a juicy contrast to the savory ham.
• Honey: Honey enhances the glaze’s sweetness and gives it a beautiful shine.
• Mustard: Opt for Dijon mustard for a slight tang that balances out the sweetness beautifully.

For the Glaze:

• Cinnamon: Just a pinch adds warmth and depth to your glaze without overpowering other flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Crock Pot Brown Sugar Ham with Pineapple

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step : Prepare the Ham

Start by removing any packaging from your ham and placing it in your crock pot cut side down. This position allows juices to seep into the meat as it cooks.

Second Step : Make the Glaze

In a medium bowl, combine brown sugar, honey, mustard, and cinnamon until well blended. This mixture will create an irresistible glaze that caramelizes beautifully.

Third Step : Apply the Glaze

Spread half of the glaze over the top of the ham using a brush or spoon. Ensure it’s evenly coated to maximize flavor absorption.

Fourth Step : Add Pineapple

Scatter pineapple chunks around and on top of the ham in your crock pot. These not only add flavor but also keep moisture levels high during cooking.

Fifth Step : Cook Low and Slow

Cover your crock pot and cook on low heat for approximately 6-8 hours. The low temperature allows flavors to meld while ensuring tender meat.

Serving Suggestion: Once cooked, carefully slice your ham and serve it hot with additional pineapple on top for an eye-catching presentation.

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Choose Quality Ham: A good-quality bone-in ham enhances flavor significantly; look for one that’s well-marbled.
• Don’t Rush Cooking Time: Allowing time for slow cooking ensures tenderness; avoid cooking on high unless necessary.
• Save Leftovers Wisely: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator; they can last up to a week.

Cooking Instructions

To prepare your Crock Pot Brown Sugar Ham with Pineapple, start by placing the ham in your slow cooker. Ensure that the cut side is facing down to allow even cooking. In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar, pineapple juice, and mustard until well combined. Pour this mixture over the ham, ensuring it coats evenly.

Next, add pineapple slices on top of the ham. These not only enhance the flavor but also keep the meat moist during cooking. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat for about 6 to 8 hours. Cooking it slowly will allow the flavors to meld beautifully. During the last hour, brush some of the glaze over the ham again for an extra sticky finish.

Once done cooking, carefully remove the ham from the Crock Pot and let it rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps retain its juiciness. Serve warm and enjoy this delightful dish at your next gathering.

Serving Suggestions

Crock Pot Brown Sugar Ham with Pineapple makes an excellent centerpiece for any meal. Here are some serving ideas:

• Pair with roasted vegetables: The sweetness of the ham complements savory roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts.
• Serve with mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes absorb the delicious juices from the ham.
• Include a fresh salad: A crisp green salad provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the ham.

Storage Tips

To store leftovers from your Crock Pot Brown Sugar Ham with Pineapple properly, allow it to cool completely first. Place sliced or whole portions in an airtight container and refrigerate them within two hours of cooking. Properly stored, this ham can last up to four days in the refrigerator.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions of leftover ham. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe container. Frozen ham can last up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Presentation Ideas

This Crock Pot Brown Sugar Ham with Pineapple is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Festive platters: Arrange slices on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs for an elegant look.
• Tropical themes: Surround with additional pineapple rings and maraschino cherries for a tropical flair.
• Bread rolls: Serve alongside warm dinner rolls or biscuits for a comforting meal experience.

FAQs

Can I use other types of ham for this recipe?

While traditional recipes often call for bone-in or spiral-cut hams, you can use any type you prefer. Just ensure that it fits comfortably in your Crock Pot. If using a pre-cooked ham, reduce cooking time accordingly since those require less heating than uncooked hams.

What can I do if I don’t have brown sugar?

If you find yourself out of brown sugar while making your Crock Pot Brown Sugar Ham with Pineapple, you can easily substitute it with white sugar mixed with molasses. For each cup of brown sugar needed, mix one cup of white sugar with one tablespoon of molasses until well blended.

How do I reheat leftover Crock Pot Brown Sugar Ham with Pineapple?

Reheating leftover Crock Pot Brown Sugar Ham with Pineapple is simple and can be done either in the oven or microwave. To maintain its moisture when using an oven, wrap slices in foil and heat at 325°F until warmed through. In a microwave, cover slices on a plate and heat at medium power in short intervals until hot.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare your Crock Pot Brown Sugar Ham with Pineapple ahead of time by assembling everything in your slow cooker insert and storing it in the fridge overnight before cooking. This way, you save time on busy days while still enjoying a delicious dish that’s perfect for gatherings!