Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Ham

Holiday meals can get hectic but this crockpot ham keeps things simple and hands off while delivering unforgettable flavor. Using brown sugar honey and tangy pineapple juice this slow-cooked spiral ham turns out juicy sweet and fork-tender with those golden caramelized edges everyone loves. Free your oven for other dishes and let the slow cooker do the work

One holiday I had my hands full with kids and prep but this ham came out flawless while I barely touched it my family raved and now it is a must for every celebration

Ingredients

• Spiral ham: choose an eight to ten pound ham for easy slicing and juicy results get a good quality one for best flavor
• Brown sugar: brings deep sweetness and helps caramelize the edges dark brown sugar adds even richer flavor
• Honey: or use pure maple syrup for a unique twist choose real and high quality for more impact
• Pineapple slices and juice: keeps the meat tender and adds tang select canned pineapple in juice not syrup it helps balance the sweetness
• Ground cloves: gives a warm note that cuts the richness use freshly ground if possible for strongest aroma
• Butter: adds silkiness to the glaze and helps it stick to the ham a good European style butter amps up flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ham:

Place the spiral ham cut side down in a large oval slow cooker so the juices keep it moist and the slices stay intact

Make the Glaze:

In a bowl combine brown sugar honey pineapple juice from the can and melted butter then add a pinch of ground cloves whisk until smooth and glossy

Apply the Glaze:

Pour half the glaze over the ham slowly letting it seep between the slices then gently press it in using your hands or a brush for full coverage

Add the Pineapple:

Tuck pineapple slices all around the ham and pour the remaining glaze on top letting the slices capture the sweet flavors

Cook Low and Slow:

Cover the crockpot with its lid or foil to keep in moisture cook on low for three to four hours basting occasionally to deepen the flavor if you can

Rest and Serve:

Let the cooked ham rest in the juices for around ten minutes with the lid off this helps the glaze thicken slightly and the meat stay tender and juicy

Create Crisp Edges Optional:

For caramelized edges remove ham to a baking dish pat more brown sugar onto the surface and broil just a minute or two watching closely for bubbling and bronzing

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One of my favorite parts is the pineapple slices they soak up the glaze and taste like candy my kids always fight over them at the table and it is a memory that makes this recipe extra special in our home

Storage Tips

Let leftover ham cool and store it tightly wrapped or in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days If you have a lot slice and chill for faster reheating later For longer storage freeze sliced portions in freezer bags and thaw in the fridge overnight they will stay good for a few months

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not like pineapple swap in orange juice and thin orange slices for a similar sweet tang Apple cider or a splash of apple cider vinegar works too Maple syrup can easily sub in for honey For a spicier note add a little ground ginger or cinnamon to your glaze

Serving Suggestions

Pair your crockpot ham with creamy mashed potatoes green bean casserole or stuffing A colorful fresh salad or honey roasted carrots also go well For a more casual meal serve leftovers in sandwiches or diced into casseroles the next day

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Cultural and Holiday Tradition

Slow cooked ham is a classic dish during Christmas and Easter gatherings across the US and parts of Europe Every family has their twist but the combination of sweet glaze and salty ham is timeless This dish brings people together around the table and gives a delicious nod to comforting holiday traditions

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I keep the ham moist during cooking?

Use pineapple juice and honey in the glaze to add moisture. Cook the ham cut-side down, and baste with juices before resting to maximize tenderness.

→ Can I substitute pineapple juice with another ingredient?

If pineapple isn’t preferred, try orange juice or apple cider vinegar to provide both acid and sweetness for balancing flavors and tenderizing.

→ How can I get caramelized, crispy edges on the ham?

After slow cooking, press extra brown sugar onto the ham and broil briefly until the edges begin to bubble and caramelize.

→ What size slow cooker is needed?

A large oval slow cooker, ideally 8 quarts or bigger, fits an 8–10 pound spiral ham comfortably and ensures even heating.

→ Do I need to pre-cook the spiral ham?

Most spiral hams are fully cooked. The slow cooking process mainly reheats and flavors the ham while producing a moist texture.

→ What are some side dishes that pair well with this ham?

Classic pairings include green bean casserole, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce for a full festive meal.