Slow Cooker Glazed Ham with Brown Sugar Sauce

Slow Cooker Glazed Ham with Brown Sugar Sauce

This slow cooker glazed ham is the perfect centerpiece for any holiday gathering or special dinner. The combination of brown sugar, honey, and warm spices creates a rich, caramelized glaze that keeps the meat tender and juicy throughout the cooking process. With minimal hands-on time, you can have an impressive main dish ready to serve your guests.

Ingredients

• 1 bone-in ham, 8 to 10 pounds
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon whole cloves
• 1 cup pineapple juice or apple juice
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Instructions

1. Place ham cut side down in a slow cooker. Pour juice around the ham.
2. In a bowl, mix brown sugar, honey, vinegar, mustard, pepper, and ginger until combined.
3. Score the top of the ham in a crosshatch pattern and stud with whole cloves.
4. Brush the glaze over the ham, reserving some for basting.
5. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, basting with remaining glaze every hour.
6. Transfer ham to a serving platter and let rest 10 minutes before slicing.
7. Strain pan juices and serve alongside the ham.

Practical Tips

Tip 1: Extra Caramelization For a beautifully caramelized exterior, brush the ham with glaze one final time and place under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes before serving. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Tip 2: Juice Selection While pineapple juice adds tropical sweetness, apple juice offers a more subtle flavor. Choose based on your preference and what you have available.

Tip 3: Consistent Basting Set a timer to remind yourself to baste every hour. This keeps the ham moist and helps develop that signature glossy glaze.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze sliced ham for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F with a little extra glaze to maintain moisture.

Common Questions

Can I use a smaller ham? Yes, you can use a smaller ham, but reduce the cooking time to 3 to 4 hours on low. Check that the internal temperature reaches 140°F.

What if my slow cooker is very full? If the ham doesn’t fit comfortably, you can trim some of the rind or use a larger slow cooker. Ensure the ham sits flat and the lid closes securely.

Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time? Absolutely. Mix the glaze ingredients the night before and refrigerate. Bring it to room temperature before applying to the ham.