Irresistible Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham Recipe

Here’s a culinary gem that will have your taste buds doing the happy dance: Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham. Imagine a golden-brown ham, glistening with a sweet and sticky glaze that wafts through your kitchen like a warm hug on a chilly day. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside, perfect for family gatherings or holiday feasts. Picture this: the juicy ham slowly cooking away in your trusty slow cooker, filling your home with an aroma so divine that even the neighbors might start knocking on your door.

Now, let me take you back to my childhood when my grandma would whip up her famous honey-glazed ham for every Thanksgiving dinner. It was like a rite of passage in our household! The table would be adorned with this succulent centerpiece, and we’d all gather around, eagerly awaiting that first bite. As soon as grandma carved into that ham, the sweet scent would hit us like a freight train of deliciousness. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on making this dish; it’s bound to create some unforgettable memories at your own table.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Bone-In Ham: Opt for a fully cooked bone-in ham for maximum flavor; aim for about 6-8 pounds to serve a crowd.
• Honey: Use pure honey for the best sweetness and depth; avoid processed varieties if you can.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy kick that balances the sweetness beautifully; choose smooth or grainy based on personal preference.
• Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar works well; it enhances the caramelization process while adding richness.
• Ground Cloves: A pinch goes a long way in flavoring; they provide warmth and spice to complement the sweetness.

For the Glaze:

• Pineapple Juice: Fresh juice offers bright acidity and pairs wonderfully with ham’s flavors; opt for unsweetened if possible.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Slow Cooker

Start by lightly greasing your slow cooker with non-stick spray; this makes cleanup easier later. Place your bone-in ham snugly inside so it fits nicely.

Step 2: Make the Glaze

In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, ground cloves, and pineapple juice until combined. You want it smooth enough to pour but thick enough to stick.

Step 3: Coat That Ham

Pour half of your heavenly glaze over the ham, making sure to coat every nook and cranny—yes, even those hidden spots! Reserve the other half for later.

Step 4: Set It and Forget It

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low heat. Let it cook for about 6-8 hours—this is where magic happens! The longer it cooks, the more tender it becomes.

Step 5: Baste Like a Pro

Every hour or so (if you’re feeling ambitious), sneak a peek and baste the ham with its juices using a ladle. It’s like giving your ham its spa treatment!

Step 6: Final Touches

Once cooked through and tender, remove the ham from the slow cooker and pour over any remaining glaze before slicing into succulent pieces. Transfer slices onto plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Now sit back while everyone raves about how you’ve just become their favorite chef!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve ham that melts in your mouth, start by glazing it before placing it in the slow cooker. Then, let it cook low and slow while you sip a cup of coffee and relax.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap honey with maple syrup for a different sweetness. You can also add spices like cloves or cinnamon for an extra kick that will wow your taste buds!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, place slices in the oven covered with foil until heated through, keeping them juicy and tender.

The first time I served this Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham at a family gathering, my uncle declared it “the best ham ever.” I think he was just trying to get on my good side, but hey, I’ll take it!

FAQs:

What is the best cut of ham for Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham?

For a delicious Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham, bone-in hams are often preferred. The bone adds flavor and moisture while cooking. Spiral-cut hams also work well since they absorb the glaze beautifully. Look for a ham that has a good amount of fat for added richness, ensuring it stays juicy throughout the cooking process. You can choose between smoked or unsmoked varieties based on your taste preference. Remember, the key to a tender and flavorful dish is selecting high-quality meat.

Can I use a different sweetener in my Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham?

Absolutely! While honey is the traditional sweetener in a Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham, you can easily substitute it with maple syrup or brown sugar for a different flavor profile. Agave nectar is another alternative if you’re looking for a lower glycemic index option. Each sweetener will impart its unique taste, so feel free to experiment until you find the combination that best suits your palate. Just make sure to adjust quantities based on sweetness levels.

How long should I cook the Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham?

Cooking time for your Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham depends on its weight. A general rule of thumb is to cook it on low heat for about 8-10 hours or on high heat for 4-6 hours. The goal is to heat it through without drying out the meat. Always check internal temperature; it should reach 140°F (60°C) when fully warmed. If you’re adding glaze towards the end, consider a shorter cooking time to avoid burning the sugars.

Can I prepare Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham in advance?

Yes, preparing your Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham in advance is entirely possible and convenient! You can season the ham and apply the glaze a day ahead, then store it in your refrigerator overnight. On the day of cooking, simply place everything into your slow cooker and let it do its magic. This method allows flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in an even more delicious meal when it’s time to serve.

Conclusion for Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham:

In summary, making Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham is both simple and rewarding. Choose quality cuts like bone-in or spiral-cut hams for best results. Experiment with sweeteners to create your perfect glaze and remember to monitor cooking times based on ham weight for optimal tenderness. Preparing in advance can enhance flavors while saving you time on special occasions. With these tips, you’ll enjoy a delightful dish that impresses family and friends alike!

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Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham

• Author: Christina
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours
• Total Time: 46 minute
• Yield: Serves approximately 10 people 1x
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Experience the ultimate comfort food with this Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham, perfectly tender and ideal for any gathering.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6–8 pounds Bone-In Ham
• 1 cup Honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon Mustard
• 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
• 1/2 tsp Ground Cloves
• 1/2 cup Pineapple Juice

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Instructions

1. Prepare Your Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the slow cooker with non-stick spray. Position the bone-in ham snugly inside.
2. Make the Glaze: In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, ground cloves, and pineapple juice until smooth yet thick enough to coat.
3. Coat the Ham: Pour half of the glaze over the ham, ensuring even coverage. Set aside the remaining glaze.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, allowing the ham to become tender.
5. Baste: If desired, baste the ham with its juices every hour for extra flavor.
6. Finish Up: Once cooked, remove the ham from the slow cooker. Drizzle with remaining glaze before slicing and serving.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 ounces (113g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For a twist on flavor, substitute honey with maple syrup. Consider adding spices like cinnamon for additional warmth.