Slow Cooker Ham with Brown Sugar Honey Glaze is an effortless and delicious way to enjoy a tender, flavorful ham. Perfect for holiday gatherings or family meals, this ham is infused with a sticky-sweet glaze of brown sugar, honey, and warm spices that caramelizes beautifully in the slow cooker. This recipe allows you to free up oven space, making it ideal for large gatherings or holiday feasts. The best part? It’s practically hands-free, thanks to the magic of slow cooking.

Ingredients:

• 1 bone-in, fully-cooked ham (8–10 pounds)
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (or pineapple juice)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

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Preparation:

Step 1: Prep the Ham

Remove any packaging and plastic cap from the bone if there is one. Place the ham flat-side down in the slow cooker. If the ham is too large, you may need to trim it to fit, or choose a spiral-cut ham, which often fits more easily.

Step 2: Mix the Glaze

In a small mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, and cinnamon. Stir until all ingredients are blended into a thick glaze. This mixture will serve as the perfect blend of sweetness and spice to complement the salty ham.

Step 3: Apply the Glaze

Pour half of the glaze mixture over the ham, using a brush or spoon to spread it evenly. This first layer of glaze will seep into the meat as it slowly cooks, creating a rich, flavorful base.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Ham

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set the temperature to low. Allow the ham to cook for 4 to 6 hours, depending on the size and type of ham. Baste the ham every hour, spooning the glaze from the bottom of the slow cooker over the meat to help lock in moisture and enhance the glaze’s flavor. The ham is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F.

Step 5: Apply a Final Glaze

Once the ham is fully cooked, pour the remaining glaze over it for a finishing touch. For a caramelized, sticky finish, you can place the ham in the oven on broil for 3–5 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning. The broiling step is optional but adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Variation:

If you’d like a fruity twist, add a cup of pineapple juice or apple cider to the bottom of the slow cooker instead of apple cider vinegar. You can also add a teaspoon of liquid smoke to the glaze for a smoky, barbecue-style flavor. For a spicier glaze, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Cooking Note:

• Spiral-cut hams can be used, but they may dry out faster, so be vigilant with basting.
• If the slow cooker lid doesn’t close fully, cover the slow cooker with aluminum foil before placing the lid on top, ensuring the heat and moisture stay in.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the ham warm with classic holiday sides like scalloped potatoes, green bean casserole, and cornbread. It also pairs wonderfully with fresh salad, steamed green vegetables, or roasted Brussels sprouts. Leftovers can be sliced for sandwiches, added to breakfast omelets, or chopped into casseroles.

Tips:

• Use a ham labeled as “fully cooked” or “ready to eat” to save time.
• Baste the ham every hour for the best flavor and moist texture.
• Prepare the glaze a day ahead for quicker assembly on cooking day.
• Leftover ham can be refrigerated for up to 5 days and makes excellent additions to many meals.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

4–6 hours

Total Time:

4 hours 15 minutes – 6 hours 15 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 18g
• Sodium: 1200mg

Nutritional information is approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use a spiral-cut ham?
A: Yes, but since spiral-cut hams have more exposed surface area, they can dry out more easily. To prevent this, be sure to baste frequently.

Q: Can I cook the ham on high if I’m short on time?
A: You can, but cooking on high for 2–3 hours might not allow the flavors to penetrate as deeply. For the best results, use the low setting.

Q: Do I need to add water to the slow cooker?
A: Adding a liquid like pineapple juice or apple cider vinegar can enhance flavor, but it’s not necessary as the ham will release its own juices while cooking.

Q: How can I make this recipe if I don’t have a slow cooker?
A: You can make it in the oven by wrapping the ham in foil and baking at 325°F for 2–3 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the glaze.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Ham with Brown Sugar Honey Glaze is a perfect blend of savory and sweet, creating a crowd-pleasing main dish for any occasion. The simple preparation and slow-cooking method make it ideal for busy days or special gatherings when you want to spend time with loved ones, not in the kitchen. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, this ham is a show-stopper that delivers rich flavor, tender texture, and irresistible glaze. Serve it up for your next family dinner or holiday feast, and enjoy the compliments that are sure to come.