Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham: The Amazing Ultimate Recipe

Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham is a delightful dish that can turn any meal into a special occasion. This recipe is not only incredibly easy but also adapts well to any holiday or gathering. With a sweet and savory glaze, this ham becomes the star of the show on your dining table, enticing your guests before they even take their first bite. The aroma of honey mingling with spices fills your kitchen, setting a warm and inviting atmosphere that no one can resist.
If you have ever been at a gathering where this ham graced the table, you know that it creates a buzz among guests. The first taste of the honey-infused glaze captivates the senses and leaves a lasting impression. This dish is not merely food; it represents warmth, celebration, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. In this guide, you will discover why this recipe is truly special, how to prepare it easily, and tips on serving it flawlessly. So, let’s dive into the incredible journey of creating the ultimate Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are numerous reasons why the Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham will become a favorite in your home. Here are just a few:
1. Effortless Preparation: With straightforward ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a deliciously complex dish.
2. Tender and Juicy: Cooking ham in a slow cooker ensures that it stays moist, resulting in tender slices that melt in your mouth.
3. Versatile Dish: This recipe works beautifully for holidays, family dinners, or casual get-togethers.
4. Everyone’s Favorite: The sweet glaze is universally loved, making it a fantastic choice regardless of age.
5. Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this dish ahead of time, allowing you to focus on other meal elements.
6. Impressive Presentation: The glossy glaze and perfectly carved slices make for an eye-catching centerpiece.
With these points in mind, it’s clear why the Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham is a must-try recipe for anyone looking to impress without the stress.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparing Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham is a simple process that doesn’t require extensive time in the kitchen. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
– Preparation Time: 20 minutes
– Cooking Time: 4 to 6 hours (on low)
– Resting Time: 15 minutes before slicing
These times offer a good guideline, but they may vary depending on your slow cooker model and the size of the ham.

Ingredients

– 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)
– 1 cup honey
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Optional: Fresh herbs for garnish (such as thyme or rosemary)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating this incredible Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham can be a breeze if you follow these simple steps:
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place your slow cooker in a safe area and plug it in.
2. Score the Ham: With a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This allows the glaze to penetrate better.
3. Mix the Glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, cloves, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
4. Place the Ham: Position the ham in the slow cooker, cut side down. This helps retain moistness during cooking.
5. Add the Glaze: Pour half of the glaze mixture over the ham. Be sure to coat it well.
6. Cook the Ham: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or until heated through. Baste occasionally with the juices.
7. Glaze Again: About 30 minutes before the ham is done cooking, pour the remaining glaze over the top for a glossy finish.
8. Check for Doneness: You can check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach at least 140°F (60°C).
9. Remove and Rest: Once cooked, carefully transfer the ham to a cutting board. Let it rest for 15 minutes.
10. Slice and Serve: Thinly slice the ham and arrange it on a serving platter. Drizzle some of the extra glaze over the top before serving.
Following these steps guarantees an amazing Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham that will impress everyone at your gathering.

How to Serve

Presenting your Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham well can elevate the entire dining experience. Here are some tips on serving this delectable dish:
1. Presentation: Use a large platter to display the ham beautifully. Garnish with fresh herbs for a touch of color.
2. Accompaniments: This ham pairs excellently with side dishes like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad. Consider apple sauce or cranberry sauce for added flavor.
3. Slice Size: Serve us ample slices, ensuring guests get to experience the tender, juicy texture.
4. Beverage Pairing: Consider wines like Riesling or a light-bodied red for a pleasing complement to the sweet and savory notes of the ham.
5. Make It a Feast: You can create a buffet-style meal, letting guests build their plates with sides and the glorious ham at the center.
By thoughtfully considering how you serve the ham, you’ll create a memorable dining experience that guests will talk about long after the meal is over.

Additional Tips

– Use a High-Quality Ham: The better the quality of your ham, the more flavorful and tender it will be. Look for a fresh, high-quality ham for the best results.
– Adjust the Glaze: Feel free to experiment with the glaze ingredients. Adding a splash of orange juice or some crushed pineapple can give the glaze a fruity twist.
– Baste Often: For the most flavorful results, baste the ham with the juices from the slow cooker every hour while it cooks. This will help infuse more flavor into the meat.
– Let it Rest: Allowing the ham to rest before slicing is crucial. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice is juicy and tender.

Recipe Variation

Sometimes, creativity in the kitchen can lead to some delightful surprises! Here are a few variations of the Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham recipe to try:
1. Spicy Glaze: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the glaze mixture for a little kick.
2. Maple Infusion: Substitute half of the honey with maple syrup for a unique flavor that blends beautifully with ham.
3. Herb-Infused Ham: Sprinkle fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme on the ham before adding the glaze for added flavor depth.
4. Apricot Glaze: Incorporate apricot preserves into the glaze for a fruity enhancement that pairs wonderfully with the savory ham.

Freezing and Storage

Proper storage is key to maintaining the flavor and texture of your Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham. Here are some guidelines:
– Storage: Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3 to 5 days.
– Freezing: You can freeze the ham for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it in the oven.

Special Equipment

To make the process easier, consider using the following equipment:
– Slow Cooker: A reliable, good-sized slow cooker is essential for this recipe.
– Meat Thermometer: To check for doneness and ensure the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
– Sharp Knife: A sharp knife will make scoring the ham and slicing easier and cleaner.
– Basting Brush: For applying the glaze every hour while cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a pre-cooked ham?
Yes, this recipe works best with fully cooked ham, which is what you’ll commonly find in stores.
What size ham should I use for this recipe?
An 8-10 pound ham is ideal for this slow cooker recipe, but adjust timing based on the size.
Can I cook this on high instead of low?
You can, but cooking on low allows the flavor to develop beautifully over time. If you must cook on high, monitor the cooking time closely, reducing it to about 2-3 hours.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover ham can be used in various dishes such as sandwiches, soups, or even as a topping for salads.
How do I know if my ham is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of at least 140°F (60°C).

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham is a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that you can enjoy for various occasions. Its combination of sweet and savory flavors creates an unforgettable experience. Whether for holidays, family gatherings, or casual dinners, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds. With its incredibly easy preparation and delightful outcome, it’s no wonder this ham has become a favorite for many. Happy cooking!

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