Welcome to the ultimate guide on crafting the perfect Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham, a dish that combines the succulence of ham with the delightful sweetness of pineapple and brown sugar. This recipe not only promises to be a feast for your taste buds but also showcases the ease of using a slow cooker to create a meal that will be the talk of your next gathering. Let’s embark on a culinary journey that brings together the best of flavor, convenience, and festive cheer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-5 hours on low
- Total Time: Approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes
- Servings: Serves 8-10
Shopping List
- Spiral-cut ham (7-10 pounds)
- Honey (1 cup)
- Brown sugar (1 cup)
- Canned pineapple slices or chunks (20 oz)
Ingredients:
- Ham: 1 spiral-cut ham (size to fit your slow cooker)
- Honey: 1 cup, to glaze and sweeten the ham
- Brown Sugar: 1 cup, to enhance the sweetness
- Pineapple: 1 can (20 oz) of pineapple slices or chunks, with juice
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the Ham: Remove the ham from its packaging and place it flat side down in the slow cooker. Make sure the ham fits snugly; a 7-10 pound ham is usually suitable for most standard slow cookers.
- Mix the Glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey and brown sugar until you achieve a smooth, cohesive mixture.
- Apply the Glaze: Brush the honey and brown sugar mixture over the entire surface of the ham, ensuring that it seeps into the slices.
- Add the Pineapple: Arrange the pineapple slices or chunks around and on top of the ham. Pour the pineapple juice over the ham to infuse it with flavor during cooking.
- Cook on Low: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4-5 hours. The ham should be heated through and take on the flavors of the glaze and pineapple.
- Serving: Once cooked, let the ham rest for a few minutes before transferring it to a serving platter. Spoon the cooking juices over the ham before serving to enhance its moistness and flavor.
Tips for the Perfect Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham:
- Selecting the Right Ham: Opt for a fully cooked, spiral-cut ham to ensure even flavoring and easy serving.
- Ham Size: Ensure the ham you choose comfortably fits in your slow cooker. A too-large ham will not cook evenly.
- Enhance Flavors: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a sprinkle of ground cloves or cinnamon over the ham before cooking.
- Leftovers: Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s perfect for sandwiches, soups, or salads.
This Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a flavorful journey that promises to deliver comfort and joy with every bite. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or a comforting weekend meal, this recipe encapsulates the essence of home cooking while offering the simplicity and convenience of slow cooking. Dive into this culinary adventure and let your slow cooker deliver a masterpiece that will be remembered long after the last slice is savored.
