Crockpot Ham with Pineapple Juice and Brown Sugar: A Sweet and Savory Delight

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Effortless Cooking: Simply combine your ingredients, set the timer, and let the slow cooker work its magic.
  • Flavorful: The combination of sweet pineapple juice and rich brown sugar creates a sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the ham.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast, family gathering, or weeknight dinner, this ham is sure to impress.
  • Leftover-Friendly: Enjoy the savory goodness as leftovers in sandwiches, salads, or breakfast dishes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To prepare this delicious Crockpot Ham, gather the following ingredients:

  • 1 fully cooked ham (bone-in or boneless, about 5-7 lbs)
  • 1 cup pineapple juice
  • 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 1/4 cup honey (optional for extra sweetness)
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional for added flavor)
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves (optional)
  • Whole cloves (for garnish, if desired)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ham

Remove the ham from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. If it has a rind, you can trim it off, but leave the fat layer for flavor. Place the ham in your Crockpot.

2. Make the Glaze

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves until well combined.

3. Glaze the Ham

Pour the glaze over the ham, making sure to coat it evenly. Use a brush or spoon to spread some of the glaze under the ham to ensure all sides get the delicious flavor.

4. Cook the Ham

Cover the Crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the ham is heated through. Baste the ham with the juices in the Crockpot every hour for maximum flavor.

5. Serve

Once cooked, carefully remove the ham from the Crockpot and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with a drizzle of the remaining glaze from the Crockpot.

6. Garnish (Optional)

For a decorative touch, insert whole cloves into the surface of the ham before cooking. This adds both flavor and an appealing presentation.

Tips for the Perfect Crockpot Ham

  • Choosing the Right Ham: Look for a pre-cooked ham that fits your slow cooker size. Bone-in hams tend to be more flavorful, while boneless options are easier to slice.
  • Leftovers: Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Use it in sandwiches, pasta dishes, or casseroles.
  • Adding Pineapple Slices: For added flavor and presentation, you can place pineapple rings on the ham using toothpicks before cooking.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Ham with Pineapple Juice and Brown Sugar is an easy and delicious way to elevate your next meal. The sweet and savory flavors will have your family and friends raving, and the slow cooker makes it a hassle-free option. So go ahead, try this recipe, and let the deliciousness unfold in your kitchen.

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