Easy Crock Pot Brown Sugar Ham
Nothing heralds the arrival of holiday cheer quite like the aroma of a delicious meal simmering away in your slow cooker. This easy Crock Pot brown sugar ham recipe is a sure-fire way to delight your family and surprise your taste buds. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dish that feels gourmet without the fuss.
Growing up, our family dinners were always something special. My grandmother had this innate ability to make every meal feel like a celebration. Her secret was a recipe similar to this one, prepared with love and anticipation. While the recipe I share with you today carries a few modern twists, it still pays homage to those warm, nostalgic gatherings around her festive dining table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simplicity: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and preparation, making it perfect for busy cooks.
- Aromatic Delight: As it cooks, the sweet and savory scents will fill your home, enhancing the whole cooking experience.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a holiday or just a Sunday family dinner, this dish is an ideal centerpiece.
Ingredients Notes
This recipe uses a pre-cooked ham, brown sugar, pineapple juice, and a touch of Dijon mustard for a perfect balance of flavors. Choose a ham that fits your Crock Pot comfortably. Brown sugar is essential for caramelization, while pineapple juice adds a pleasant acidity. You can substitute maple syrup for brown sugar if desired.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Place the ham in your Crock Pot, flat side down. This ensures even cooking and better absorption of the glaze.
Step 2
In a bowl, mix brown sugar, pineapple juice, and Dijon mustard until well combined. Pour this mixture over the ham, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
Step 3
Set your Crock Pot to low heat and cover. Cook the ham for 4-6 hours or until thoroughly heated through and tender.
Step 4
Every hour, baste the ham with the juices trapped at the bottom of the pot. This increases flavor saturation and keeps the meat juicy.
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Step 5
Once done, remove the ham and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps to retain moisture and makes slicing easier.
Storage Options
Leftover ham can be wrapped tightly in aluminum foil or an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for about 3-5 days. For longer preservation, slice the ham and place the slices in freezer bags. They can be frozen for up to two months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in an oven-safe dish.
Variations & Substitutions
You can vary this dish by adding cloves to the glaze or substituting Dijon mustard with honey for a sweeter touch. For dietary adjustments, opt for reduced-sugar alternatives or low-sodium ham varieties.
Serving Suggestions
This ham pairs wonderfully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh garden salad. It’s also ideal for holiday celebrations, family gatherings, or Sunday brunches alongside fluffy rolls and cranberry sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a fresh ham instead of a pre-cooked one? Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Fresh hams require a longer cooking period and must reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to be safe for consumption.
What if my ham is too large for the Crock Pot? You can trim it down or purchase pre-sliced ham. Alternatively, you can slow cook it in the oven using a similar glaze.
Can I add additional ingredients to the glaze? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Some also enjoy a hint of garlic powder in their glaze for added depth.
Creating delightful meals doesn’t need to be complicated. Once you try this easy Crock Pot brown sugar ham recipe, you’ll find it’s a versatile gem that’s destined to become a family favorite. Make it part of your festive traditions and savor every bite!
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Easy Crock Pot Brown Sugar Ham
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 5 pound bone-in fully cooked ham spiral cut recommended
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 1 can cola 12 ounces
- 2 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Place the ham in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Mix the brown sugar, cola, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and cloves in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture over the ham, ensuring it is evenly coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 5 hours.
- Once fully heated, remove the ham and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
