Slow Cooker Glazed Ham
This slow cooker glazed ham is the perfect centerpiece for any holiday table or special gathering. With a rich, caramelized glaze made from brown sugar, honey, and warm spices, this ham practically cooks itself while you attend to other dishes. The low and slow cooking method ensures the meat stays incredibly tender and juicy throughout.
Ingredients
- 1 bone-in ham, 8 to 10 pounds
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 cup water or ham broth
- Whole cloves for studding, optional
Instructions
- Score the surface of the ham in a crosshatch pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep. Place ham cut-side down in a 6-quart slow cooker.
- In a bowl, whisk together brown sugar, honey, mustard, vinegar, butter, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and cloves until smooth.
- Pour the glaze over the ham and add water to the bottom of the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, basting with the sauce every 2 hours.
- Transfer ham to a serving platter. Pour the cooking liquid into a saucepan and simmer over medium heat for 5 to 10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Drizzle the warm glaze over the ham and serve.
Practical Tips
- Baste frequently: Basting the ham every 2 hours keeps it moist and helps build up a rich, glossy glaze on the surface for a more impressive presentation.
- Size matters: Make sure your ham fits comfortably in your slow cooker with the lid able to close properly. A 6-quart cooker works best for an 8 to 10-pound ham.
- Score properly: The crosshatch scoring allows the glaze to penetrate the ham and creates more surface area for caramelization, resulting in better flavor distribution.
Storage
Store leftover glazed ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and warm in a 325-degree oven for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cook this ham on high instead of low? While you can cook it on high for 3 to 4 hours, the low setting produces a more tender result with better glaze development. Low and slow is recommended for optimal texture.
What size slow cooker do I need? A 6-quart slow cooker is ideal for an 8 to 10-pound ham. If your cooker is smaller, you may need to trim the ham or use a smaller one, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the glaze the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Simply pour it over the ham when you are ready to start cooking.