Brown Sugar Crockpot Pineapple Ham

Pineapple crockpot ham is the kind of holiday main dish that makes everyone wander into the kitchen asking, "What smells so good?" This sweet and savory ham recipe is slow cooked until tender, coated in a glossy brown sugar glaze, and made with simple ingredients. It's cozy, crowd-pleasing, and surprisingly easy - which is exactly why it's a must-make.

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The backstory.

I love a good shortcut that still feels special, and this pineapple crockpot ham is exactly that. The first time I made it, I just wanted to free up oven space. Now I make it this way because it turns out tender and flavorful every single time - and it keeps holiday cooking a whole lot calmer.

It's a must make.

Pineapple crockpot ham is one of those recipes that makes hosting feel doable, even on your busiest holiday.

• It keeps things simple. This ham recipe starts with a fully cooked spiral ham, so you're just reheating and layering on flavor - not starting from scratch.
• The brown sugar glaze is irresistible. Brown sugar, maple syrup, and pineapple juice melt together into a sticky, sweet topping that seeps into every spiral cut slice.
• The slow cooker does the heavy lifting. Once you place ham in the crock pot, the cooking time is hands-off and dependable.
• It frees up oven space. Let the slow cooker do the work so you can bake side dishes and desserts without juggling racks and timing.

Let's talk flavor and texture.

This pineapple ham is tender enough to pull apart with a fork, but still holds its shape beautifully thanks to the spiral cut. The brown sugar glaze thickens into a sweet, slightly sticky coating, while the crushed pineapple melts into the sauce and adds little pops of juicy sweetness. The cinnamon and cloves bring warmth without overpowering the savory flavor of the cooked ham. It's sweet, savory, and cozy in every bite.

What you'll need.

To make ham in crockpot with brown sugar and pineapple, you'll need a handful of simple ingredients.

• Fully cooked spiral sliced ham: Go with a spiral cut ham so that sweet glaze can drip down between every slice. Since it's already cooked, we're just reheating and adding flavor.
• Brown sugar: This is what gives you that classic sugar ham sweetness and helps create a rich brown sugar glaze.
• Pure maple syrup: Adds depth and a cozy, slightly caramel-like flavor that pairs perfectly with pineapple.
• Crushed pineapple (with the juice): The pineapple keeps the ham juicy while adding natural sweetness and a little tang.
• Dijon mustard: Just enough savory bite to balance all that brown sugar.
• Ground cinnamon: Warm and comforting without overpowering the ham.
• Ground cloves: A small amount adds that nostalgic holiday flavor.
• Cornstarch: Used at the end to thicken the glaze so it clings to every slice.
• Water: Mixed with the cornstarch to create a smooth slurry.
• Butter (optional): Makes the glaze extra silky and rich.
• Bourbon (optional): Adds a deeper, slightly smoky note if you want to elevate the flavor.
• Pineapple slices and fresh chopped parsley (optional garnish): For a pretty finish and a little pop of color when serving.

For exact ingredient quantities, please see the recipe card below!

How to make brown sugar and pineapple ham crockpot recipe.

Here's an overview on how to make this recipe. See the recipe card below for complete instructions. Enjoy!

1. Place ham in the crockpot cut side down, letting the spiral slices face up so the glaze can run between them.
2. Pour the brown sugar, maple syrup, pineapple with juice, mustard, and spices mixture evenly over the top, making sure it seeps into the sliced ham.
3. Cover and cook on LOW for 2 to 4 hours, just until the internal temperature reaches the recommended package temperature. Remember, it's already cooked - we're just heating and flavoring.
4. For a thicker glaze, transfer some of the cooking juices to a saucepan, whisk in the cornstarch mixture (and butter or bourbon if using), simmer until thickened, then spoon it back over the ham before serving.

Make it your way.

If you're making brown sugar and pineapple ham crockpot style, there are a few easy swaps and additions you can try:

• Swap the maple syrup for honey if that's what you have on hand.
• Stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons of orange juice for a brighter citrus twist.
• Use pineapple rings instead of crushed pineapple for a more traditional look.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warm spice.
• Skip the bourbon for a completely family-friendly version, or add it for a deeper, richer glaze.

How to serve it.

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Pineapple crockpot ham is the kind of main dish that shines with simple, cozy sides and a little extra glaze on top.

• Transfer the ham to a serving platter and spoon warm brown sugar glaze over each spiral slice before serving.
• Garnish with pineapple slices and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a fresh pop of color.
• Serve alongside cheesy potatoes or a creamy casserole for a classic holiday plate.
• Add roasted carrots or simple green beans to balance the sweetness of the pineapple ham.
• Set out soft dinner rolls so no one misses a drop of that sweet, sticky juice.
• Use leftovers the next day for sliders, breakfast egg bakes, or tucked into soups for an easy second meal.

Kori's tips.

• Always cook on LOW - this keeps your spiral ham tender and prevents it from drying out.
• Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Internal temperature is the most reliable way to know when your crockpot ham is ready.
• If your ham is closer to 5 to 6 pounds, shorten the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
• Spoon some of the juice over the top once or twice during cooking if you're nearby - it helps build flavor.
• Let the ham rest for 10 to 15 minutes before serving so the juices settle and the slices hold together better.

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