Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Start by spraying the slow cooker liner with cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Place the ham in the slow cooker, cut-side down. Make sure the lid fits securely over the ham. If the ham is too tall for the lid to seal, trim a small portion off the top and place it alongside the main piece to ensure a proper fit.
Step 2: Make the Glaze
In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, water, Dijon mustard, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously until the brown sugar dissolves, which should take about 5 minutes. The glaze should be smooth and aromatic.
Step 3: Cook the Ham
Pour the warm glaze evenly over the ham in the slow cooker. Place the lid on the slow cooker, set it to low, and cook for 4-6 hours. To maximize flavor, baste the ham with the juices from the bottom of the slow cooker once every hour. The ham is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of at least 140°F (60°C).
Step 4: Optional – Thicken the Glaze
For a thicker, more caramelized glaze, transfer the juices from the slow cooker to a saucepan once the ham is done. Simmer the glaze over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens to your preferred consistency.
Enjoy this wonderfully tender and flavorful ham, complete with a luscious brown sugar honey glaze!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Ham with Brown Sugar Honey Glaze
Here are some ways to serve this sweet and savory ham:
1. Main Dish: Slice the ham and arrange it on a serving platter. Drizzle some extra glaze over the slices for added flavor and presentation.
2. Holiday Centerpiece: Place the whole ham on a decorative platter with fresh herbs, cranberries, or orange slices around it for a festive look.
3. Leftover Ideas: Use leftover ham in sandwiches, omelets, or casseroles. It’s a versatile option that tastes great in many dishes.
4. With Side Dishes: Pair this ham with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Slow Cooker Ham with Brown Sugar Honey Glaze
Storing your leftovers properly will help them stay fresh and delicious:
1. Refrigeration: Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also keep it in the original slow cooker juices for added flavor and moisture.
2. Freezing: For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen ham will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
3. Reheating: Reheat ham slices in a covered dish with a little bit of the glaze in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F) until warmed through. This will keep the meat moist and flavorful.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Ham with Brown Sugar Honey Glaze
Here are some tips to ensure your ham turns out perfectly:
1. Use a Bone-In Spiral Cut Ham: Spiral cut ham is ideal for this recipe as it allows the glaze to seep into each slice, adding extra flavor and moisture.
2. Baste Regularly: Basting the ham every hour with the slow cooker juices ensures it stays moist and flavorful throughout the cooking process.
3. Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add a bit more honey or brown sugar. If you want a less sweet glaze, reduce the sugar slightly.
4. Check the Temperature: Ensure the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) before serving for optimal safety and taste.
5. Thickening the Glaze: If you want a more concentrated glaze, simmer the juices in a saucepan until they reach the desired consistency.
