Why This Crock Pot Ham is Irresistible

• Effortless cooking — simply set it and forget it.
• Moist & tender meat thanks to the low-and-slow method.
• Perfect for a crowd — feeds 8–12 people with ease.
• Flavor-packed glaze that caramelizes into sticky, delicious goodness.
• Holiday tradition — brings nostalgia and warmth to the table.

Ingredients & Their Purpose

Each ingredient in this slow cooker ham recipe plays a vital role in delivering mouthwatering flavor and perfect texture.

• 1 fully cooked spiral-cut ham (8–10 lbs) — The star of the show, spiral-cut for easy serving and glaze penetration.
• 1 cup honey — Adds natural sweetness, depth, and helps the glaze caramelize beautifully.
• 1 cup light brown sugar — Enhances sweetness with a hint of molasses, balancing the salty ham.
• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices with juice — Pineapple adds tropical brightness and acidity, preventing dryness.
• Whole cloves (optional) — Lend a warm, spiced aroma perfect for holiday dinners.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ham

Remove the spiral-cut ham from its packaging. Discard any glaze packets. Place the ham flat-side down in the slow cooker, ensuring it fits snugly. Trim edges if necessary so the lid closes fully.

2. Make the Glaze

In a bowl, combine honey and brown sugar. Stir until smooth and fully blended. This rich glaze will seep between every slice.

3. Apply the Glaze

Generously brush the glaze over the ham, making sure it gets into each spiral cut for maximum flavor.

4. Add the Pineapple

Arrange pineapple slices around and over the ham. Pour the pineapple juice from the can directly into the slow cooker. This keeps the ham moist and adds fruity brightness.

5. Slow Cook

Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours. Avoid cooking on HIGH to prevent drying out the meat. The ham is ready when heated through and the glaze has thickened slightly.

6. Optional Caramelization

For a sticky, caramelized finish, transfer ham to a baking dish and broil for 3–5 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Crock Pot Ham

• Choose a spiral-cut ham for easier serving and better flavor absorption.
• Do not overcook — hams are pre-cooked, so you’re only reheating and glazing.
• Reserve extra glaze from the slow cooker to drizzle over slices before serving.
• Use whole cloves for a classic holiday presentation and aromatic flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This pineapple brown sugar ham pairs beautifully with a variety of holiday sides. Consider serving it with:

• Scalloped potatoes or creamy mashed potatoes
• Green bean casserole
• Sweet potato casserole with marshmallows
• Homemade dinner rolls
• Cranberry sauce for a tart contrast

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil; freeze up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm in a covered baking dish at 300°F until heated through, or gently in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a boneless ham?

Yes, but bone-in hams offer more flavor and moisture.

What size slow cooker do I need?

For an 8–10 lb ham, you’ll need a 7–8 quart slow cooker.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the glaze and pineapple the night before, but cook the ham fresh for best results.

Do I need to baste the ham during cooking?

No, the closed slow cooker keeps moisture in, but you can spoon glaze over it halfway through for extra flavor.