This Slow Cooker Honey-Glazed Ham is a show-stopping centerpiece for any holiday or special gathering. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, thanks to the magic of the slow cooker, and delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The ham is bathed in a luscious blend of honey, brown sugar, pineapple juice, Dijon mustard, and cloves, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and spice that permeates every bite.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. It’s an excellent choice for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, or any celebratory occasion, but it’s also simple enough to make for a hearty family meal. The glaze thickens into a rich sauce that can be drizzled over the ham or served on the side, ensuring every plate is packed with flavor. Pair this succulent ham with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a complete feast.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 bone-in ham (7–9 lbs)
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Directions:
- Place the ham in the slow cooker, flat side down.
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, pineapple juice, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves.
- Pour the glaze evenly over the ham, ensuring the surface is fully coated.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4–5 hours, basting occasionally with the juices.
- Once the ham is heated through and tender, transfer it to a serving platter.
- To thicken the glaze, pour the juices into a saucepan and heat over medium.
- Combine cornstarch and water in a small bowl, then stir the mixture into the saucepan. Cook, stirring, until the glaze thickens.
- Drizzle the thickened glaze over the ham before serving, and enjoy.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 4 hours | Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 285 kcal | Servings: 10 servings
Why you’ll love this recipe:
- Hands-Off Cooking: The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you free to focus on other tasks or simply enjoy time with loved ones.
- Customizable: You can adjust the sweetness or spice level to your preference by tweaking the honey or cloves.
- Moist and Tender: Cooking the ham slowly ensures it stays juicy and absorbs all the delicious flavors from the glaze.
- Perfect for Leftovers: The leftover ham is fantastic in sandwiches, soups, or casseroles, making it a practical and economical choice.
If you’re looking for a hassle-free, crowd-pleasing dish that brings comfort and joy to the table, this Slow Cooker Honey-Glazed Ham is a must-try. It’s a recipe you’ll return to year after year!
Tips for Success:
- Choose the Right Ham: Opt for a fully cooked, bone-in ham for the best flavor and texture. Spiral-cut hams are particularly convenient, as they allow the glaze to seep into every slice.
- Size Matters: Ensure your ham fits comfortably in your slow cooker. If it’s too large, you can trim a small portion or use a larger slow cooker.
- Basting is Key: For maximum flavor, baste the ham with the glaze every hour while it cooks. This helps infuse the meat with the sweet and tangy flavors.
- Thickening the Glaze: Don’t skip the step of thickening the glaze on the stovetop. This turns the cooking liquid into a rich, glossy sauce that enhances the presentation and taste.
Variations to Try:
- Maple Glaze: Swap out the honey for maple syrup to create a warm, earthy sweetness.
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the glaze for a subtle spicy note.
- Herbal Twist: Incorporate fresh rosemary or thyme into the glaze for an aromatic touch.
- Citrus Infusion: Use orange juice instead of pineapple juice for a bright and zesty flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions:
This ham pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes:
- Classic Sides: Mashed potatoes, scalloped potatoes, or green bean casserole.
- Fresh Options: A citrus salad, roasted Brussels sprouts, or honey-glazed carrots.
- Bread Choices: Serve with dinner rolls or cornbread to soak up the extra glaze.
Storing and Reheating:
- Storage: Refrigerate leftover ham in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze slices of ham for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Gently warm the ham slices in the oven at 300°F, covered with foil to prevent drying out. Add a little leftover glaze for extra moisture.
Why This Recipe Stands Out:
This dish is a true time-saver without compromising on flavor or presentation. It’s perfect for hosts who want a stress-free main course that’s both delicious and impressive. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or looking for a satisfying family meal, this recipe delivers every time.
Why Use a Slow Cooker?
The slow cooker is ideal for making this honey-glazed ham because it ensures the meat stays juicy and tender throughout the cooking process. Unlike traditional oven roasting, the slow cooker creates a moist environment that helps the ham retain its natural juices while absorbing the glaze. Additionally, using a slow cooker frees up your oven for other dishes, making it a practical choice during busy holiday meal preparations.
Nutritional Benefits:
While this dish is indulgent, it also has some nutritional highlights:
- Protein Power: Ham is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Ham provides essential nutrients like vitamin B6, thiamine, and zinc. Adding pineapple juice to the glaze contributes vitamin C, which supports the immune system.
- Customizable Sweetness: By adjusting the honey and sugar quantities, you can control the sweetness to suit dietary needs.
Holiday Prep Made Easy:
This recipe simplifies holiday cooking in several ways:
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the glaze a day in advance, saving time on the cooking day.
- Set It and Forget It: Once the ham is in the slow cooker, you’re free to focus on other tasks or simply relax with guests.
- Easy Cleanup: Cooking in a slow cooker minimizes mess, making cleanup a breeze.
Leftover Ideas:
One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile the leftovers are! Here are some creative ways to use any extra ham:
- Ham and Cheese Sliders: Layer slices of ham with Swiss cheese on small rolls, top with a mustard glaze, and bake until warm.
- Ham and Potato Soup: Dice the ham and add it to a creamy soup with potatoes, carrots, and celery.
- Ham Fried Rice: Toss chopped ham into a skillet with cooked rice, scrambled eggs, peas, and soy sauce for a quick meal.
- Breakfast Casserole: Combine ham with eggs, shredded cheese, and bread cubes, then bake for a hearty breakfast dish.
Hosting Tips:
- Serving Display: Arrange the ham on a platter surrounded by fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for an elegant presentation. Add orange or pineapple slices for a pop of color.
- Complementary Drinks: Pair this dish with sparkling apple cider, a full-bodied red wine, or a festive holiday punch.
- Allergen Awareness: If serving to a crowd, make sure to check for dietary restrictions or allergies, especially to mustard or pineapple.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use a boneless ham for this recipe?
Yes, boneless ham works well, but the cooking time may vary slightly. Bone-in hams tend to have more flavor, but boneless options are convenient and easier to slice.
2. What if my ham is too salty?
If your ham is overly salty, you can soak it in water for 4–6 hours before cooking to draw out some of the saltiness. Rinse and pat it dry before adding the glaze.
3. Can I double the glaze?
Absolutely! If you love extra sauce, double the glaze ingredients. It’s great for drizzling over ham slices or even side dishes like potatoes.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Honey-Glazed Ham is a recipe that combines ease, flavor, and elegance, making it the perfect centerpiece for any special occasion or family gathering. Its sweet and savory glaze enhances the natural richness of the ham, while the slow cooker ensures a tender, juicy result every time.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast, preparing a Sunday dinner, or looking for a dish that impresses without the hassle, this recipe is a go-to option. With its versatile glaze, simple preparation, and guaranteed deliciousness, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Plus, the leftovers offer endless possibilities for quick and flavorful meals.
Try this recipe, and you’ll discover why it’s a beloved classic that brings people together around the table, year after year!