Crock Pot Mt. Dew-Pineapple Ham: A Surprisingly Delicious Twist

My grandmother, bless her heart, was a creature of habit in the kitchen. Every holiday, without fail, a glistening ham would grace our table. While her classic rendition was always comforting, it lacked a certain zing. I remember one year, sneaking a sip of my beloved Mountain Dew and a piece of pineapple from the fruit salad and thinking… “What if?” It was a crazy kid idea that I tucked away until years later when I dared to experiment in my own kitchen. The result? A surprisingly flavorful ham that’s both sweet and savory, and now a tradition I can’t wait to share with you.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-8 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes – 8 hours 10 minutes
• Servings: Varies based on ham size
• Yields: Approximately 7 lbs of meat
• Dietary Type: Not specified

Ingredients

• 1 (12 ounce) can Mountain Dew soda, citrus soda
• 1 (8 ounce) can crushed pineapple with juice
• 1 (10 ounce) jar maraschino cherries
• 1 tablespoon cherry juice
• 1 (7 lb) spiral cut ham

Equipment Needed

• Crock Pot (Slow Cooker)

Instructions

1. Begin by placing the spiral cut ham directly into your crock pot. Ensure the ham fits comfortably; if necessary, you can trim a bit off the end to make it fit better, but avoid significantly altering the ham’s overall shape.
2. Now, slowly pour the entire can of Mountain Dew over the ham. Make sure to distribute the soda as evenly as possible, allowing it to seep into the spiral cuts. The citrusy sweetness of the Mountain Dew will begin to tenderize the ham and infuse it with flavor.
3. Next, evenly spread the can of crushed pineapple, along with its juice, over the surface of the ham. The pineapple’s acidity and sweetness will complement the Mountain Dew, creating a complex flavor profile. Be sure to push some of the pineapple down into the spiral cuts for maximum flavor penetration.
4. Carefully stud the ham with as many maraschino cherries as you desire. Don’t be shy! The cherries add a festive touch and pockets of intense sweetness. Once you’ve studded the ham, drizzle the tablespoon of cherry juice over the top. This reinforces the cherry flavor and adds a beautiful glaze.
5. Cover the crock pot tightly and cook on high for 4-5 hours or on low for 7-8 hours. The exact cooking time will depend on the size and density of your ham, as well as the specific wattage of your crock pot. A larger, denser ham will require the longer cooking time.
6. During the cooking process, baste the ham occasionally with the accumulated juices in the crock pot. This helps to keep the ham moist and ensures that the glaze forms evenly. Basting every hour or so is ideal. The sugars in the Mountain Dew and pineapple will caramelize beautifully, creating a sticky, flavorful crust.
7. To ensure the ham is fully heated, use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone. Ham is generally pre-cooked, so you’re aiming to heat it to an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For a Deeper Glaze: If you prefer a more pronounced glaze, remove the ham from the crock pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Place it on a baking sheet and broil it in the oven for a few minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
• Flavor Boost: Consider adding a teaspoon of ground ginger or a pinch of cloves to the crock pot for added warmth and complexity.
• Preventing Dryness: While the crock pot helps to keep the ham moist, you can also add a cup of chicken broth or apple juice to the pot for extra insurance.
• Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet ham, you can reduce the amount of Mountain Dew or pineapple used.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Crock Pot Mt. Dew-Pineapple Ham hot, sliced into thin pieces. The caramelized glaze and the studded cherries make for a visually stunning presentation.

• Serving Suggestions: This ham pairs wonderfully with classic sides like scalloped potatoes, green bean casserole, and dinner rolls. For a complementary flavor profile, consider serving it with a side of cranberry sauce or a tangy mustard.
• Storage: Leftover ham should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat sliced ham in the microwave, oven, or in a skillet with a little bit of the reserved crock pot juices to keep it moist.
• Freezing: Ham can also be frozen for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. It can be stored in the freezer for 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	846.2 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	352 g	42%
Total Fat	39.1 g	60%
Saturated Fat	13.3 g	66%
Cholesterol	258.8 mg	86%
Sodium	5927 mg	246%
Total Carbohydrate	44.5 g	14%
Dietary Fiber	7.5 g	29%
Sugars	25.3 g	101%
Protein	75.6 g	151%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Cola Variation: If you’re not a fan of Mountain Dew, you can substitute it with cola for a more traditional flavor.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the crock pot for a hint of heat.
• Smoked Ham: Use a smoked ham for a deeper, more complex flavor.
• Fruit Variations: Experiment with different fruits, such as canned peaches or mandarin oranges, in addition to or instead of the pineapple and cherries.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a bone-in ham for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use a bone-in ham, but be aware that it may take longer to cook. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).

Q: What if my ham is larger than 7 lbs?
A: Adjust the cooking time accordingly. For larger hams, you’ll likely need to increase the cooking time by an hour or two.

Q: Can I make this ham ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can cook the ham a day or two in advance. Let it cool completely, then store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it before serving.

Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! Fresh pineapple will add a slightly brighter flavor. Just make sure it’s finely chopped.

Q: How do I prevent the ham from drying out?
A: Basting the ham regularly with the juices in the crock pot is key to keeping it moist. You can also add a cup of broth or apple juice to the pot.

Final Thoughts

Don’t be afraid to try this unconventional Crock Pot Mt. Dew-Pineapple Ham recipe! It’s a fun and flavorful twist on a classic dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of sweet and savory notes creates a truly unforgettable experience. Share your feedback and any variations you try – I’d love to hear about your culinary adventures! This ham would be amazing served with a crisp, dry Riesling to balance the sweetness. Enjoy!