Few dishes command the dinner table quite like a beautifully glazed ham. The golden shine, the sweet aroma of pineapple, and the tender slices ready to serve—it’s a meal that feels both festive and comforting. The beauty of preparing a Slow Cooker Pineapple Glazed Ham is that it combines the timeless flavors of juicy ham with the ease of hands-off cooking.
Instead of hovering over the oven, you can let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting while you enjoy time with family and friends. This recipe is particularly beloved because it balances savory, sweet, and tangy notes all in one dish. The pineapple glaze caramelizes slowly, sinking deep into the meat, creating slices that are juicy, flavorful, and unforgettable.
Whether you’re preparing this for Easter, Christmas, Thanksgiving, or simply a cozy Sunday dinner, this ham recipe promises to impress every guest at the table. In this guide, you’ll discover not just the recipe itself, but also expert tips, serving suggestions, creative variations, and answers to the most common questions. By the end, you’ll be fully prepared to create a masterpiece that could easily become your family’s next tradition.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are many ham recipes out there, but this one stands out. Here’s why:
- Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker handles the heavy work—no need to constantly monitor.
- Perfect Flavor Balance: Sweet pineapple, rich brown sugar, tangy mustard, and savory ham create harmony in every bite.
- Versatile Occasion Dish: Equally suited for holiday feasts or a casual family dinner.
- Beautiful Presentation: A pineapple-glazed ham is naturally stunning and makes a centerpiece worthy of celebration.
- Leftovers Shine: From sandwiches to omelets and casseroles, this ham keeps on giving long after dinner is over.
Ingredients Breakdown
Understanding why each ingredient matters will make you a better cook. Here’s what you’ll need:
1. Bone-In Ham (7–10 pounds)
A bone-in ham retains moisture better during the long cooking process and offers superior flavor. The bone also makes slicing easier and adds richness to the glaze. Choose one that fits comfortably in your slow cooker.
2. Pineapple Juice (1 cup)
The star of the glaze. Pineapple juice provides natural sweetness and acidity that tenderizes the meat. Its sugars caramelize during slow cooking, creating a glossy, golden finish.
3. Brown Sugar (½ cup, packed)
Adds warmth and depth. Brown sugar pairs beautifully with the saltiness of ham, helping to create a sticky glaze with molasses notes.
4. Dijon Mustard (⅓ cup)
Balances sweetness with a slight tang. Dijon’s sharpness ensures the glaze doesn’t become overly sugary, while also adding aromatic complexity.
5. Ground Cloves (1 teaspoon, optional)
Cloves provide a warm, slightly spicy undertone that enhances both pineapple and ham. Use sparingly—it’s powerful.
6. Maraschino Cherries (½ cup, optional)
A classic garnish that brings color and added sweetness. Perfect for presentation, especially during the holidays.
Recipe Card – Slow Cooker Pineapple Glazed Ham
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6–8 hours (on low)
Servings: 12–14
Ingredients:
- 1 bone-in ham (7–10 pounds)
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ⅓ cup Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- ½ cup maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the ham by removing packaging, rinsing lightly, and patting dry.
- Score the surface in a crisscross pattern for better glaze absorption.
- In a bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, brown sugar, mustard, and cloves until smooth.
- Place ham cut-side down in the slow cooker. Pour glaze evenly over top.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 140°F (for precooked hams).
- Baste occasionally with reserved glaze.
- Allow ham to rest 15–20 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with cherries or herbs before serving.
Chef’s Note: Save leftover glaze from the slow cooker to drizzle over slices or sides.
Detailed Cooking Guide
Preparing the Ham
Start by rinsing your ham to remove excess brine, then pat it completely dry. Scoring the surface in diagonal lines not only looks beautiful but also ensures the glaze penetrates deeply.
Making the Glaze
In a bowl, whisk pineapple juice, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and cloves until smooth. You can adjust the balance—more mustard for tang, more sugar for sweetness.
Slow Cooking
Place the ham cut-side down in your slow cooker. Pour the glaze over the top, ensuring even coverage. Cook on low for 6–8 hours. Avoid lifting the lid too often; each time you do, heat escapes and cooking slows.
Basting and Finishing
Baste with extra glaze every hour or two for maximum flavor. Near the end, remove the lid for 15–20 minutes to let the glaze caramelize further.
Resting and Slicing
After cooking, transfer ham to a cutting board. Cover loosely with foil and let it rest before slicing against the grain. This keeps each slice juicy.
Tips for the Perfect Ham
- Choose the Right Size: A ham too large for your slow cooker will cook unevenly.
- Use Fresh Pineapple: When possible, fresh juice delivers unmatched flavor.
- Don’t Skip Resting Time: Resting ensures juices redistribute evenly.
- Use a Thermometer: Aim for 140°F internal temperature for precooked hams.
- Add Spice Wisely: Cloves, cinnamon, or nutmeg can elevate the glaze but should not overpower it.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Not scoring the ham: Limits glaze penetration.
- Skipping liquid: Without enough juice, the ham can dry out.
- Overcooking: Ham is already cured or smoked—extra cooking makes it tough.
- Using the wrong glaze balance: Too much sugar burns, too much mustard overpowers.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic: Mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, and dinner rolls.
- Festive: Cranberry sauce, green bean casserole, and stuffing.
- Fresh Touch: A citrus salad or grilled asparagus.
- Leftovers: Ham and cheese sandwiches, ham omelets, ham fried rice, or creamy ham soup.
Creative Variations
- Maple Bourbon Glaze: Replace pineapple juice with maple syrup and a splash of bourbon.
- Honey Mustard Pineapple Ham: Add honey for richer sweetness.
- Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or hot honey for sweet heat.
- Low-Sugar Version: Use sugar substitutes like monk fruit with unsweetened pineapple juice.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store slices in airtight containers for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap portions tightly; freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F, covered with foil, to prevent drying. Add a splash of pineapple juice for moisture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Sugars: 12g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sodium: 950mg
Values vary depending on ham brand and serving size.
FAQs
Can I use boneless ham?
Yes, boneless works, but bone-in stays juicier and has better flavor.
Can I cook on high instead of low?
Yes, about 3–4 hours on high, but low heat ensures better tenderness.
What if I don’t have pineapple juice?
Apple juice or orange juice can be substituted, though flavor will change.
Can I prepare this a day ahead?
Yes, cook and slice, then store with glaze. Reheat slowly the next day.
How do I make it less sweet?
Reduce sugar and add extra Dijon or even a splash of vinegar for balance.
Can I bake instead of slow cook?
Yes, bake at 325°F, basting regularly, until internal temperature is reached.
Final Thoughts
The Slow Cooker Pineapple Glazed Ham is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration on a plate. With its sweet, tangy glaze and tender meat, it transforms any gathering into something special. Best of all, the slow cooker makes it approachable for cooks of all levels.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, preparing a Sunday feast, or simply looking for a dish that will yield days of delicious leftovers, this ham has you covered. Try it once, and it may become the centerpiece of your traditions for years to come.