Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

Description

Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Glazed Ham is a rich, savory, and slightly sweet main dish that’s perfect for holidays, family dinners, or meal prep. The ham slowly cooks until tender and juicy while a buttery brown sugar glaze caramelizes around the edges. Using a slow cooker keeps the ham moist and practically foolproof.

This recipe delivers:

• Tender slices with deep flavor
• Sticky caramelized glaze
• Minimal prep work
• Perfect holiday presentation

Prep Time & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4–6 hours
• Total Time: About 5 hours

Servings

• Serves: 10–12 people

Ingredients

For the Ham

• 1 fully cooked spiral-cut ham (7–9 pounds)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ½ cup honey
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup pineapple juice or apple juice

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker or use a slow cooker liner for easier cleanup.

Step 2: Add the Ham

Place the ham flat-side down in the slow cooker. If it’s too large, trim slightly or cover with foil before placing the lid.

Step 3: Make the Glaze

In a bowl, whisk together:

• Brown sugar
• Honey
• Maple syrup
• Dijon mustard
• Melted butter
• Cinnamon
• Cloves
• Black pepper
• Pineapple juice

Mix until smooth.

Step 4: Glaze the Ham

Pour half the glaze over the ham, separating some slices gently so flavor gets inside.

Step 5: Slow Cook

Cover and cook:

• Low: 4–6 hours
• OR High: 2–3 hours

Baste the ham with juices every hour if possible.

Step 6: Caramelize (Optional)

For extra caramelization:

1. Transfer ham to a baking dish
2. Brush with remaining glaze
3. Broil 3–5 minutes until glossy and bubbling

Step 7: Serve

Slice and spoon glaze over the top before serving.

Recipe Notes

• Spiral-cut hams absorb glaze better.
• Bone-in ham stays juicier during slow cooking.
• Pineapple juice adds acidity and balances sweetness.
• Avoid overcooking since the ham is already fully cooked.

Tips for Best Results

1. Use Low Heat

Cooking on LOW keeps the ham tender and prevents drying out.

2. Don’t Skip the Basting

Occasional basting deepens flavor and moisture.

3. Add Fruit

Pineapple rings or apple slices can add extra aroma and sweetness.

4. Thick Glaze Option

To thicken leftover glaze:

• Pour liquid into a saucepan
• Simmer 8–10 minutes
• Add 1 teaspoon cornstarch slurry if needed

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

Benefits

High in Protein

Ham provides a substantial amount of protein for muscle maintenance and satiety.

Great for Gatherings

Easy to prepare ahead for holidays and parties.

Minimal Effort

The slow cooker handles most of the work.

Excellent Leftovers

Perfect for:

• Sandwiches
• Soups
• Breakfast scrambles
• Pasta dishes

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze sliced ham for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Warm covered in the oven at 325°F with a splash of juice or broth.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with:

• Mashed potatoes
• Roasted vegetables
• Mac and cheese
• Dinner rolls
• Green beans
• Sweet potatoes

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use a non-spiral ham?

Yes. Score the surface in a crisscross pattern so the glaze penetrates better.

Q2: Do I need to add water to the slow cooker?

Usually no. The ham releases enough moisture while cooking.

Q3: Can I make it less sweet?

Yes. Reduce brown sugar to ½ cup and omit maple syrup if preferred.

Q4: How do I keep ham from drying out?

Cook on LOW and avoid exceeding the recommended cook time.

Q5: Can I prepare it ahead?

Yes. Assemble the glaze and refrigerate overnight. Cook the next day.

Variations

Spicy Version

Add:

• ½ teaspoon cayenne
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce

Citrus Version

Add orange zest and fresh orange juice.

Bourbon Glaze

Replace part of the juice with bourbon for deeper flavor.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Glazed Ham is an easy centerpiece recipe that combines sweet caramelized glaze with juicy, tender ham. It’s ideal for holiday meals, Sunday dinners, and special occasions while requiring very little hands-on effort.