For the Simple, Sweet Glaze
1 (4–5 lb / 1.8–2.3 kg) bone-in, fully cooked ham (spiral-cut or whole)
1 cup (200g) packed brown sugar (light or dark)
½ cup (120ml) honey (pure, not imitation)
½ cup (120ml) pineapple juice (canned or fresh—no added sugar preferred)
✅ Optional Upgrades:
1 tsp Dijon mustard or apple cider vinegar for tang
½ tsp ground cloves or cinnamon for warmth
Whole cloves studded into the ham before cooking (classic presentation)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Place Ham in Slow Cooker
Position the cooked ham in your 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker, cut side down (if spiral-cut) or flat-side down (if whole).
✅ No need to add water—the ham will release its own juices.
2. Make the Glaze
In a small bowl:
Whisk together brown sugar, honey, and pineapple juice until smooth and well blended.
✅ Warm ingredients slightly if honey is too thick.
3. Pour & Coat
Pour the glaze evenly over the top of the ham, letting it seep into the crevices.
✅ Use a spoon to spread it across the surface.
4. Cook Low & Slow
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours.
For best results, baste every 2 hours with the accumulating juices and glaze.
👉 Internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C) when done—perfect for serving warm without drying out.
5. Rest, Slice & Serve
Carefully remove the ham and let rest 10–15 minutes—this keeps it juicy.
Slice using a sharp knife (follow spiral cuts if using pre-sliced).
Drizzle with warm pan glaze before serving.
Serve hot with:
Scalloped potatoes or mac and cheese
Steamed broccoli or roasted carrots
Buttery dinner rolls for soaking up the sauce
✅ Leftovers? Reheat gently in the oven—the glaze stays sticky!
You Must Know
Use a fully cooked ham —this is a “heat-through” method, not a raw cook.
Don’t skip basting —it builds flavor and shine.
Tastes better the next day! Reheats beautifully in oven or air fryer.
Freezer-friendly —cool completely and freeze up to 3 months.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, or in oven at 325°F for 10–12 mins.
Freeze for up to 3 months —thaw overnight before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
Pineapple juice
Orange juice, apple juice, or ginger ale
For fruity sweetness
Honey
Maple syrup, agave, or corn syrup
Natural alternatives
Brown sugar
Coconut sugar or molasses + white sugar
Flavor variation
Bone-in ham
Boneless cooked ham or smoked turkey leg
For size or preference
Serving Suggestions
Serve family-style right in the slow cooker insert (lined with foil).
Great for potlucks—bring the whole dish!
Double the batch and freeze half for future joy.
Pack in lunchboxes (reheat safely).
Cultural Context
Rooted in American Southern and Midwest holiday traditions, this recipe celebrates how simple ingredients—ham, sugar, fruit juice—can become something deeply satisfying. Found at Easter tables, creative kitchens, and church suppers alike, it honors the joy of sharing food made with love.
Pro Tips
Double the recipe? Yes—perfect for feeding a crowd. Use two crockpots or work in batches.
Want more color? Broil slices 2–3 mins after slicing for extra caramelization.
Make ahead: Glaze can be mixed 1–2 days ahead. Store chilled.
Label your dish: People will ask for the recipe.
Say “ready?” before serving —it’s part of the ritual.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a spiral-cut ham?
A: Absolutely! It absorbs glaze even better due to the cuts.
Q: Why is my glaze thin?
A: Simmer pan juices in a saucepan 5–7 mins to reduce and thicken.
Q: Is this gluten-free?
A: Yes—if using GF-certified ham and verifying all ingredients.
Q: Can I make it on HIGH?
A: Yes! Cook 3–4 hours on HIGH, but LOW yields juicier results.
Q: Can I air fry leftovers?
A: Not the whole ham—but reheat slices at 350°F for 4–6 mins.
Allergy Information
Contains: none of the top 8 allergens (if no cross-contamination).
Gluten-free option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Nut-free: This recipe is naturally nut-free.
Always check labels—especially on processed hams and juices.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)
Based on 8 servings (3 oz ham + glaze)
Calories: 320
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 24g
Protein: 24g
Sodium: 1,480mg
Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on brands and substitutions. Not intended as medical advice.
This ham doesn’t shout. It simmers quietly in the crockpot, fragrant and inviting, saying everything a great meal should: “Slice me slow. Share me. This is good.” That’s how the best ones begin—not with fanfare, but with sweetness, soul, and someone who says, “Let’s make it together.”
