Pin It My slow cooker sat untouched for months until a neighbor mentioned she'd been making ham in hers for years. I was skeptical—how could something so simple turn out better than the oven method I'd always used? But one rainy Sunday, I gave in and let a honey-glazed ham cook all day while I read on the couch. The smell that filled the house was intoxicating, sweet and warm, and when I finally sliced into it that evening, the meat practically fell apart. I haven't roasted a ham since.
I made this for Easter dinner last year, and my brother-in-law, who never asks for recipes, texted me the next morning asking how I got the glaze so glossy. I told him it was just patience and a good basting brush. He didn't believe me until I walked him through it over the phone while he stood in his own kitchen, slow cooker already plugged in.
Ingredients
- Fully cooked bone-in ham: Look for one that's already cooked so you're really just reheating and glazing, which keeps it juicy and forgiving.
- Honey: Use a good quality honey—it's the backbone of the glaze and you'll taste the difference if you go cheap.
- Brown sugar: Packed brown sugar adds molasses depth that balances the brightness of the vinegar.
- Dijon mustard and whole-grain mustard: The combination gives you sharpness and texture, cutting through the sweetness beautifully.
- Apple cider vinegar: A little acidity keeps the glaze from being cloying and helps it cling to the ham.
- Cinnamon and cloves: Warm spices that make the whole house smell like a holiday, even if it's just a Tuesday.
- Orange slices: They release their oils slowly and add a subtle citrus note that feels festive.
- Whole cloves: Studding the ham with these is traditional and adds little bursts of spice when you bite into them.
Instructions
- Prep the ham:
- Place the ham flat side down in your slow cooker and use a sharp knife to score the surface in a crisscross diamond pattern. Stud the intersections with whole cloves—this looks impressive and infuses the meat as it cooks.
- Make the glaze:
- Whisk together the honey, brown sugar, both mustards, vinegar, cinnamon, and ground cloves in a bowl until smooth. It should be thick but pourable, like warm syrup on a cold morning.
- Glaze and add aromatics:
- Pour the glaze all over the ham, making sure it gets into the scored cuts. Tuck the orange slices around the base of the ham in the slow cooker.
- Slow cook:
- Cover and set to low for 6 hours. Every hour or so, spoon some of the glaze from the bottom back over the top—this builds up layers of flavor and color.
- Rest and reduce:
- When the ham is heated through and tender, transfer it to a cutting board and let it rest. Pour the liquid from the slow cooker into a saucepan and simmer over medium heat until it thickens into a glossy sauce, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Slice and serve:
- Carve the ham into thick slices and brush each piece with the reduced glaze. Serve warm with the extra sauce on the side.
Pin It The first time I served this at a family gathering, my aunt asked if I'd hired a caterer. I laughed and told her it had been sitting in my slow cooker all afternoon while I watched a movie. She didn't believe me until she saw the dishes in my sink—just a bowl, a whisk, and a basting brush.
How to Store and Reheat
Wrap leftover ham tightly in foil or store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat slices in a covered dish in the oven at 300 degrees with a splash of water or leftover glaze to keep them moist. Cold slices are perfect for sandwiches or chopped into soups.
Flavor Variations
Swap the apple cider vinegar for pineapple juice if you want a sweeter, more tropical glaze. A splash of bourbon or dark rum stirred into the glaze before pouring adds a warm, smoky note that pairs beautifully with the honey. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne or a tablespoon of hot honey.
Serving Suggestions
This ham shines alongside roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes. A simple green salad with a tart vinaigrette cuts through the richness, and buttery dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any extra glaze.
- Pair with a crisp Riesling or a dry sparkling cider for a festive touch.
- Serve with scalloped potatoes or a warm grain salad for a complete meal.
- Save the ham bone for making split pea soup later in the week.
Pin It Every time I make this, I'm reminded that the best meals don't have to be complicated. A little patience, a few good ingredients, and the willingness to let the slow cooker do its thing—that's all it takes to make something people remember.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I ensure the ham stays moist during slow cooking?
Maintain low cooking temperature and baste the ham occasionally with the honey glaze to lock in moisture and flavor.
- → Can I add alcohol to the glaze for extra flavor?
Yes, a splash of bourbon added to the glaze enhances depth and richness without overpowering the sweet and spiced balance.
- → What is the purpose of scoring the ham and adding cloves?
Scoring creates texture and allows the glaze to penetrate deeper, while the cloves infuse subtle aromatic spice throughout the meat.
- → How do I thicken the glaze after cooking?
Simmer the reserved glaze over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until it reduces to a thick, syrupy consistency perfect for brushing.
- → What side dishes pair well with this slow-cooked ham?
Roasted root vegetables and a crisp white wine like Riesling complement the sweet and spiced flavors beautifully.