This 2-Ingredient Crockpot Brown Sugar Ham is a quintessential holiday centerpiece that prizes simplicity without sacrificing flavor. By slow-cooking a pre-sliced ham under a dense layer of brown sugar, the sugar melts into a deep, mahogany-colored glaze that permeates every slice. This method ensures the meat stays exceptionally moist and tender while creating a perfect balance between savory pork and sweet, caramelized crust.
Ingredients
The Main: 1 fully cooked bone-in or spiral-sliced ham (8–10 lbs).
The Glaze: 2–3 cups packed light or dark brown sugar
Instructions
Prep the Cooker: Ensure your slow cooker is large enough to fit the ham. If the ham is too tall, you can cover the top with a tent of aluminum foil instead of the lid to seal in the heat.
Position the Ham: Place the ham in the crockpot, flat side down.
Apply Sugar: Pour the brown sugar over the top of the ham, using your hands to pat it onto the sides so it sticks. The sugar should form a thick coating.
Slow Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 4–6 hours. Avoid using the High setting, as it may dry out the outer layers of the meat.
Baste: About halfway through the cooking time, use a spoon to scoop the liquid sugar glaze from the bottom of the pot and pour it back over the top of the ham.
Rest and Serve: Once heated through, remove the ham from the pot and let it rest for 10–15 minutes before serving.
Variations
Spiced Glaze: Mix 1 teaspoon of ground cloves or cinnamon into the brown sugar before applying it for a more traditional holiday aroma.
Pineapple Twist: Place pineapple rings over the ham with maraschino cherries held by toothpicks before adding the sugar.
Mustard Kick: Rub the ham with 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard before applying the brown sugar to add a sharp, savory contrast.
Serving and Storage
Service: Serve the ham on a large platter, drizzling extra glaze from the crockpot over the meat. It pairs excellently with mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, or as the filling for the Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches mentioned earlier.
Storage: Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Leftovers: The bone can be saved to make a rich broth for split pea or lentil soup.
Why This Method Works
Because most hams purchased at the store are already fully cooked, the goal of the crockpot is simply to reheat the meat without losing moisture. The brown sugar serves two purposes: it creates a flavorful glaze and acts as a barrier that helps trap the ham’s natural juices inside. As the sugar melts, it mixes with the saltiness of the pork, creating a self-basting environment that results in a much juicier ham than one baked in a traditional oven