There’s something magical about the aroma of slow-cooked ham filling the house—it’s warm, rich, and instantly makes any gathering feel extra special. Whether you’re preparing for a cozy holiday dinner or simply craving a fuss-free meal that delivers big on flavor, this Crockpot Ham Recipe is the ultimate game-changer.
With just a handful of ingredients—brown sugar, maple syrup, and pineapple juice—this ham transforms into a sweet, caramelized masterpiece with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work, ensuring every bite is tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor.
What makes this recipe stand out? It’s all about the perfect balance of sweet and savory. The natural sugars from the maple syrup and pineapple juice infuse deep into the ham, creating a glossy, slightly sticky glaze that’s downright irresistible.
Plus, cooking it in the crockpot means you free up oven space and who doesn’t need extra room for sides like Chopped Italian Keto Antipasto Salad or a decadent mug of Crockpot Hot Chocolate?
Whether it’s a holiday meal or an easy Sunday dinner, this slow-cooked ham never disappoints. And here’s the best part: leftovers are just as incredible, making for next-day sandwiches, omelets, or a hearty breakfast hash.
What’s so special about this dish?
- Effortless & Hands-Off Cooking – Let the crockpot do all the work while you enjoy time with family or prep other dishes. No basting, no stress!
- Unbelievably Tender & Juicy – The slow cooking process ensures every slice is melt-in-your-mouth perfection, packed with rich, caramelized flavor.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a holiday feast, meal prep, or a casual Sunday dinner, this ham fits the bill beautifully.
- Versatile Leftovers – Turn extras into sandwiches, soups, or even a flavorful breakfast skillet—this recipe keeps on giving!
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor – The combination of maple syrup, brown sugar, and pineapple juice creates a sticky-sweet glaze that’s impossible to resist.
Crockpot Ham Recipe
Equipment
- Slow cooker (Crockpot)
- Measuring cups
- Cooking spray
- Basting brush (optional)
- Serving platter
Ingredients
- 8 lb spiral cut ham
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup pure maple syrup do not use artificially flavored pancake syrup
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- cooking spray
- fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Spray the crockpot with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Place the spiral-cut ham inside the crockpot, flat side down.
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, maple syrup, and pineapple juice.
- Pour the mixture evenly over the ham, ensuring it seeps into the slices.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, occasionally spooning the glaze over the ham.
- Once heated through, transfer the ham to a serving platter.
- Drizzle extra glaze over the top and garnish with fresh herbs.
- Slice and serve warm with your favorite sides.
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 404kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Protein | 24g |
| Fat | 16g |
| Sugar | 23g |
| Sodium | 557mg |
Helpful Variations for This Recipe!
- Honey Bourbon Glaze – Swap maple syrup with honey and add a splash of bourbon for a deeper, slightly smoky-sweet flavor. The alcohol cooks off, leaving a rich caramelized finish.
- Spiced Citrus Twist – Replace pineapple juice with fresh orange juice and add a pinch of cinnamon and cloves. This gives the ham a warm, festive touch that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
- Savory Herb-Infused Ham – Skip the sweetness and brush the ham with a mix of butter, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and fresh rosemary for a more herbaceous, balanced flavor.
- Cranberry-Glazed Ham – Mix cranberry sauce with the brown sugar and maple syrup for a tangy-sweet glaze that pairs beautifully with the ham’s natural saltiness.
- Smoky Chipotle Kick – Add a teaspoon of chipotle powder or a splash of adobo sauce to the glaze for a smoky, slightly spicy contrast to the ham’s sweetness.
John Lee’s love for cooking is deeply rooted in family tradition. Growing up, the men in his family took charge of the kitchen, turning every meal into a special occasion. From weekend barbecues to holiday feasts, food was more than sustenance—it was a way to connect.
Inspired by this upbringing, John developed a passion for creating dishes that bring people together. After meeting Joe Miller through mutual friends, he joined Food Landscape Insight to share his love for simple yet extraordinary cooking, crafting meals that tell a story and create lasting memories.
