Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Recipe (3 Easy Ways)

This Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham is sweet, sticky, and ridiculously easy to make with just five simple ingredients. Whether you use a Dutch oven, Crockpot, or Instant Pot, this juicy pineapple glazed ham is perfect for Christmas, Easter, or any holiday gathering.

Why You'll Love It

Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Recipe (3 Easy Ways) is one of my favorite holiday recipes because it's ridiculously easy and tastes like a million bucks! We're talking juicy spiral-cut ham covered in sweet pineapple, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and a little cinnamon. The flavor combination is sweet, salty, tangy, and completely irresistible.

And the best part? You only need five simple ingredients to make the whole thing! Since we're starting with a fully cooked bone-in ham, there's very little prep work involved. As the ham warms, the brown sugar melts into the pineapple juice and savory pan juices. Then we reduce everything into the most incredible sticky glaze. HOT DANG, it's good!

I also love that you can make this pineapple ham recipe three different ways. My personal favorite is the Dutch oven, but the Crockpot is amazing when oven space is limited. You can even use an Instant Pot on its slow-cook setting. It's the perfect main course for Christmas dinner, Easter brunch, or any special occasion.

And don't even get me started on the leftovers! I love turning extra ham into my Pineapple Glazed Ham and Cheese Sliders or buttery Funeral Sandwiches. You can also find more cheesy inspiration in my Hawaiian Roll Recipe Collection.

Ingredients & Substitutions

You only need five simple ingredients to make this easy brown sugar pineapple ham. Each one plays an important role in creating that sweet, savory, sticky glaze.

• Bone-In Spiral-Cut Ham: I recommend a fully cooked, ready-to-eat spiral ham because it's easy to serve and absorbs the glaze beautifully. A boneless ham can also work, although the cooking time will vary. Look for a fully cooked city ham rather than an uncooked or dry-cured country ham.
• Dijon Mustard: This adds a tangy contrast that balances the sweetness of the pineapple and brown sugar. Regular yellow mustard works in a pinch, but Dijon gives the glaze a more complex flavor.
• Brown Sugar: This creates the rich, sticky brown sugar glaze that makes this recipe so delicious. Light brown sugar is perfect, but dark brown sugar adds a deeper molasses flavor. I wouldn't substitute maple syrup without adjusting the recipe.
• Canned Crushed Pineapple: Use the entire can, including the pineapple juice. It adds sweetness, acidity, and moisture while the ham reheats. I prefer canned pineapple because fresh pineapple contains active enzymes that can affect the meat's texture during extended cooking.
• Cinnamon: Just a little cinnamon gives this pineapple ham glaze a warm, festive flavor. Some traditional ham recipes use ground cloves or whole cloves, but I prefer cinnamon for this particular recipe.

How to Make Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham

Making this easy pineapple ham recipe is almost ridiculously simple. The preparation stays the same whether you're using a Dutch oven, Crockpot, or Instant Pot.

• PREP THE BASE: Add half the brown sugar, half the crushed pineapple with its juice, and half the cinnamon to your cooking vessel. Spread everything across the bottom to create a sweet pineapple base.
• ADD THE HAM: Place the fully cooked bone-in spiral ham on top of the pineapple mixture. Gently separate the ham slices so the glaze can get between them.
• ADD THE MUSTARD: Rub Dijon mustard over the surface of the ham. Make sure to work some between the slices for extra flavor.
• PILE ON THE PINEAPPLE: Spoon the remaining crushed pineapple and its juice over the top of the ham. Tuck some of the pineapple between the slices.
• ADD THE BROWN SUGAR: Pack the remaining brown sugar over the outside of the ham. Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon over everything.
• COOK THE HAM: Choose your preferred cooking method below. Keep the ham covered while reheating and check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
• MAKE THE GLAZE: Carefully transfer the warm ham to a serving platter. Simmer the leftover pineapple and brown sugar pan juices until thick, glossy, and syrupy.
• SERVE: Pour the sticky pineapple glaze over the entire ham and serve warm. Add your favorite side dishes and watch everyone go back for seconds!
• SAVE: Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Freeze any portions you won't use within that time.

How to Make Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham in a Dutch Oven

This is my favorite way to make pineapple brown sugar ham! A large Dutch oven keeps everything moist while the brown sugar, pineapple, and mustard create the most delicious cooking juices. Plus, you can reduce the glaze right in the same pot afterward.

Start by preheating your oven to 300°F. Prepare the ham with all five ingredients in a large Dutch oven, making sure it fits comfortably inside. Cover with the lid or tightly fitted aluminum foil if the ham is too tall. Place the covered Dutch oven in the preheated oven and heat until the ham reaches the appropriate reheating temperature.

My original recipe used approximately two hours as a cooking-time estimate. However, a large bone-in ham may take significantly longer, depending on its weight and starting temperature. Always use a meat thermometer rather than relying on the timer alone.

Once the ham is properly reheated, carefully transfer it to a cutting board or serving platter. Place the Dutch oven on the stovetop over medium heat and simmer the remaining juices for approximately 15 minutes. Stir frequently until the pineapple glaze becomes thick, glossy, and slightly darker. Pour that gorgeous sticky glaze over the ham just before serving.

How to Make Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham in a Crockpot

If you're making this ham for Christmas dinner or another big holiday meal, the slow cooker method is a lifesaver. It frees up precious oven space for casseroles, potatoes, and all those other delicious side dishes. And honestly, anything that makes holiday cooking easier is a win in my book!

Start with a large slow cooker that comfortably fits your spiral-cut ham. Prepare the pineapple, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and cinnamon mixture as directed above. Make sure the lid closes properly, then cook on HIGH until the ham reaches the appropriate internal temperature.

My original Crockpot ham recipe estimates approximately 3-4 hours for a 6-10-pound ham. Actual reheating time can vary considerably, so use a meat thermometer and allow extra time if needed. Once the ham is ready, transfer it to a serving platter.

Pour the remaining cooking juices into a medium saucepan and simmer over medium heat for about 15 minutes. Stir frequently until the mixture becomes thick, sticky, and syrupy. Spoon the finished pineapple ham glaze over the slices of ham and serve.

If you're planning a holiday menu with multiple make-ahead dishes, my Cheesy French Onion Crockpot Potatoes are another delicious option. Just make sure you've got a second slow cooker available!

How to Make Pineapple Ham in an Instant Pot

You can also make this brown sugar pineapple ham using the slow-cook function on a large Instant Pot. This is a great alternative when you don't have a traditional Crockpot, although the ham must fit comfortably inside the inner pot. An 8-quart model may work for a smaller ham.

Prepare the ham with the pineapple, brown sugar, mustard, and cinnamon as directed above. Select the slow-cook function and use the manufacturer's recommended lid and venting configuration. This is a slow-cooking method, not a pressure-cooking recipe.

My original recipe suggests approximately three hours, but actual reheating time depends on the appliance and ham size. Check the internal temperature before removing the ham. Once it's ready, transfer it to a serving platter and use the sauté function to reduce the remaining pan juices. Stir frequently until the glaze becomes thick and glossy, then pour it over the warm ham.

How to Make the Best Brown Sugar Pineapple Glaze

The brown sugar pineapple glaze is my favorite part of this entire recipe. And the best part? You don't have to make a separate sauce from scratch! The glaze starts forming naturally as the ham warms with the pineapple, mustard, cinnamon, and brown sugar.

As everything heats, the brown sugar dissolves into the pineapple juice and savory ham drippings. The Dijon mustard adds a little tanginess, while the cinnamon brings just enough warmth. Once the ham is finished, those flavorful pan juices become the base of your sticky glaze.

If you're using a Dutch oven, simply place the pot on the stovetop over medium heat. For the Crockpot method, transfer the juices to a medium saucepan. Simmer the mixture for approximately 15 minutes, stirring frequently until it thickens.

If the glaze starts bubbling too aggressively, lower the heat to medium-low. You want a gentle simmer that concentrates the flavor without scorching the sugar. The finished pineapple glaze should be thick enough to coat a spoon and cling to the ham slices.

Pour it all over the top of the ham right before serving. Trust me, you're going to want every last drop!

What Kind of Ham Works Best?

For this pineapple ham recipe, I recommend a fully cooked, bone-in spiral-cut ham. The bone adds flavor, and the spiral cut makes the ham incredibly easy to serve. It also creates little spaces between the slices where the brown sugar glaze can settle.

Look for a ready-to-eat city ham at the grocery store. You can use a half ham or a larger one, depending on how many people you're feeding. Just make sure the entire ham fits inside your Dutch oven or slow cooker.

A boneless ham can also work, but the shape and reheating time will be different. If you're using a ham that isn't spiral-cut, you can carefully slice it with a sharp knife before adding the glaze. There's no need to cut a diamond pattern into the surface of the ham or stud it with whole cloves.

And don't worry about finding a fancy ham! This easy recipe is all about transforming a simple cooked ham into something special with just a handful of ingredients.

Tips for the Perfect Pineapple Glazed Ham

Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh

I recommend canned crushed pineapple for this recipe because it's convenient, consistent, and full of sweet pineapple juice. Fresh pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain, which breaks down proteins and can affect the texture of meat. The canning process deactivates that enzyme, making canned pineapple a better choice for this extended cooking method.

If you love the traditional look of pineapple rings and maraschino cherries on holiday ham, you can add them as optional garnishes. They're not necessary for the recipe, though, and I personally love the texture of crushed pineapple in the glaze.

Get the Glaze Between the Ham Slices

One of my favorite tricks is gently separating the spiral-cut slices before adding the mustard, pineapple, and brown sugar. This helps distribute the flavor throughout the ham instead of leaving everything on the outside. You don't need to pull the slices apart completely. Just open them enough to tuck a little glaze inside.

Keep the Ham Covered

Covering the ham helps retain moisture while it reheats. For the Dutch oven method, use a properly fitting lid or tightly secured aluminum foil. For the Crockpot, make sure the lid fits correctly and stays closed during cooking. Spiral-cut hams can dry out when overheated, so gentle reheating is especially important.

Use a Meat Thermometer

Since we're starting with a fully cooked ham, the goal is to reheat it safely without drying it out. USDA guidance generally recommends reheating fully cooked ham packaged at a USDA-inspected plant to 140°F. Other fully cooked hams being reheated should reach 165°F.

Always check the packaging for specific instructions and use a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the ham, away from the bone. The actual cooking time will depend on the size, starting temperature, and cooking method.

Don't Skip Reducing the Pan Juices

This is what takes the whole recipe from good to absolutely incredible! The leftover cooking juices contain pineapple, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and savory ham drippings. Simmering them concentrates all that flavor into a thick, glossy, sticky glaze.

It only takes about 15 minutes, and it's absolutely worth the extra step. Spoon that glaze over the warm ham right before serving for the best flavor and presentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Fresh Pineapple for Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham?

I recommend canned crushed pineapple for this recipe. Fresh pineapple contains active bromelain, which can affect the texture of ham during extended cooking. Canned pineapple gives you all that sweet, tangy pineapple flavor without the same concern.

Can I Use a Boneless Ham?

Absolutely! A fully cooked boneless ham can work, although the cooking time will vary depending on its size and shape. Make sure it fits your cooking vessel and use a meat thermometer to determine when it's ready.

Should I Cover the Ham With Aluminum Foil?

Yes, if you're using a Dutch oven without a properly fitting lid. Covering the ham helps retain moisture while it reheats. You can also use an oven-safe baking dish or roasting pan with a tightly fitted foil cover if your Dutch oven isn't large enough.

How Long Does It Take to Cook a Spiral Ham?

The cooking time depends on the ham's weight, starting temperature, and cooking method. My original recipe estimates about two hours in a 300°F Dutch oven or 3-4 hours in a Crockpot. These are planning estimates, not guaranteed finishing times, so always check the internal temperature.

Can I Make Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the ham ahead of your holiday gathering and refrigerate it promptly. Reheat it safely before serving, following the appropriate guidance for cooked leftovers. I recommend warming the glaze separately so it stays glossy and easy to pour.

How Long Does Leftover Ham Last?

Store leftover cooked ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If you have more than you can eat, freeze individual portions for later. This makes it easy to pull out a little sliced ham whenever you're craving a sandwich.

What Can I Make With Leftover Brown Sugar Ham?

Oh, the possibilities! Leftover ham is perfect for breakfast sandwiches, omelets, casseroles, cheesy pasta, and all kinds of sliders. I especially love using it in my Pineapple Glazed Ham and Cheese Sliders because that sweet and savory flavor is already built right in.

You can also make a batch of buttery Funeral Sandwiches or browse my Hawaiian Roll Recipe Collection for even more cheesy inspiration. Honestly, having leftover ham might be one of my favorite parts of the holidays!

What to Serve It With

This brown sugar pineapple ham is the perfect centerpiece for a holiday table, especially when you've got a big group to feed. I love pairing its sweet, sticky glaze with creamy, cheesy sides and something colorful to balance everything out. Honestly, it goes so well with any of my Classic Southern Thanksgiving recipes!

For something rich and comforting, my Creamy Gouda Mac and Cheese is always a winner. The creamy cheese sauce tastes incredible alongside the sweet pineapple ham, and it's the kind of side dish everyone goes back for.

If you're trying to save oven space, make my Cheesy French Onion Crockpot Potatoes. They're loaded with cheddar, sour cream, and French onion flavor, making them a perfect match for this easy holiday ham.

For a colorful vegetable side, I love my Hot Honey Roasted Carrots with Goat Cheese. The spicy honey and tangy goat cheese help balance the sweetness of the brown sugar glaze.

And if you want another classic holiday favorite, my Green Bean Casserole Appetizer Bites are such a fun addition. They have all those nostalgic green bean casserole flavors in adorable little bites. It's a delicious way to round out the holiday meal!

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