Slow Cooker Glazed Ham

 Slow Cooker Glazed Ham

This Slow Cooker Glazed Ham is an easy way to turn a fully cooked ham into a tender, juicy, flavorful centerpiece with almost no hands-on work. The ham slowly warms in the crockpot while a sweet glaze coats the outside, creating a glossy finish and plenty of delicious flavor.

Whether you’re making a holiday dinner, Sunday supper, or simply want an easy meal for the family, this recipe keeps preparation simple while delivering that classic sweet-and-savory ham everyone loves.

Ingredients

• 1 fully cooked bone-in ham, about 6–8 pounds
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup honey
• ¼ cup orange juice
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

How to Make Slow Cooker Glazed Ham

1. Prepare the Ham

Remove the ham from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. If there is a thick layer of fat on top, trim it slightly, leaving enough fat to keep the ham moist.

If the ham is too large for your slow cooker, trim a small amount from the bottom if necessary so the lid can close securely.

2. Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, honey, orange juice, Dijon mustard, and cinnamon until well combined.

The mixture should be thick enough to coat the ham while still being easy to spread.

3. Add the Ham to the Slow Cooker

Place the ham cut-side down in the slow cooker.

Pour or brush about half of the glaze over the ham, spreading it across the surface as evenly as possible.

4. Slow Cook

Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 3–5 hours, depending on the size of the ham and your slow cooker.

Because the ham is already fully cooked, the goal is to heat it thoroughly without drying it out.

For food safety, reheat fully cooked ham to 165°F (74°C) when following USDA guidance for reheating cooked ham. Use an instant-read thermometer in the thickest part of the ham without touching the bone.

5. Add More Glaze

During the final hour of cooking, brush the remaining glaze over the ham.

If your slow cooker has enough room, spoon some of the warm juices over the ham as it finishes cooking.

6. Create a Caramelized Finish

For a more deeply caramelized glaze, carefully transfer the cooked ham to a foil-lined baking pan.

Brush with additional glaze and place it under a hot broiler for 2–4 minutes, watching closely until the surface becomes glossy and lightly caramelized.

7. Rest and Slice

Let the ham rest for about 10–15 minutes before slicing.

Cut thin slices around the bone and arrange them on a serving platter. Spoon some of the warm glaze and cooking juices over the slices.

Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Glazed Ham

Choose a ham that fits your slow cooker. The lid should close completely so the heat stays inside.

Keep the ham covered. Opening the lid frequently allows heat to escape and can increase the cooking time.

Don’t overcook it. Since the ham is already cooked, it only needs to be heated through.

Watch the glaze carefully. Sugar can burn quickly under the broiler, so stay close during the final step.

Easy Variations

For a stronger citrus flavor, replace some of the orange juice with pineapple juice.

You can also add a small amount of maple syrup to the glaze for a deeper caramel flavor.

For a less sweet glaze, reduce the brown sugar slightly and increase the Dijon mustard.

What to Serve With Glazed Ham

Serve this tender glazed ham with classic sides such as mashed potatoes, scalloped potatoes, green beans, roasted carrots, macaroni and cheese, or homemade dinner rolls.

The sweet glaze also pairs beautifully with roasted sweet potatoes and a crisp green salad.

How to Store Leftovers

Place leftover ham in an airtight container and refrigerate for 3–4 days.

Reheat slices gently in the microwave or in a covered skillet with a small splash of water or broth to help keep them moist.

Cooked ham can also be frozen for up to 1–2 months for best quality. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a spiral-sliced ham?

Yes. Spiral-sliced ham works especially well because the glaze can seep between the slices. Be careful not to overcook it, since spiral-sliced ham can dry out more quickly.

Can I use boneless ham?

Absolutely. Boneless fully cooked ham can be used, although the cooking time will depend on its size and shape.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes. The glaze can be mixed several days ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator. Bring it out when you’re ready to prepare the ham.

Can I make this ham without broiling it?

Yes. The broiling step is optional. The ham will still be delicious and glazed after slow cooking; broiling simply creates a more caramelized exterior.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Glazed Ham is an easy, comforting centerpiece that makes entertaining much simpler. A fully cooked ham slowly warms in the crockpot while brown sugar, honey, orange juice, Dijon mustard, and cinnamon create a sweet and flavorful glaze.

With minimal preparation and plenty of leftovers for sandwiches, breakfast, or another family meal, this slow cooker ham is a recipe worth keeping in your regular rotation.