This Slow Cooker Ham with Brown Sugar Honey Glaze is a true holiday favorite that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. Slow-cooked to perfection, the ham turns out juicy, tender, and full of flavor, with a sweet glaze that enhances its natural richness.
Ingredients
- 8 lb. bone-in spiral cut ham
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions
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.
