Save I was skeptical the first time someone told me to cook ham in a slow cooker instead of the oven. It seemed too easy, almost lazy. But one December morning, with a house full of guests arriving and zero oven space, I took the chance. Six hours later, that ham emerged so tender it practically fell off the bone, glazed in a sticky honey coating that had everyone asking for the recipe.
The smell is what I remember most from that first attempt. Around hour four, the honey and spices started mingling with the ham, filling the kitchen with this warm, sweet hum that made everyone wander in asking when dinner would be ready. My aunt claimed it smelled better than any ham shed had at a restaurant. I didnt tell her how little effort it actually took.
Ingredients
- Fully cooked bone-in ham (2.5–3 kg): The bone adds flavor and helps the meat stay juicy during the long cook, look for one thats already cooked so youre just heating and glazing.
- Honey (1 cup): This is the backbone of the glaze, providing sweetness and a glossy finish that clings to every slice.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed): It deepens the sweetness and adds a hint of molasses richness that balances the tanginess.
- Dijon mustard (1/4 cup): Cuts through the sugar with a sharp, savory edge that keeps the glaze from being one-note.
- Apple cider vinegar (1/4 cup): Adds brightness and acidity, which is essential when youre working with this much honey and sugar.
- Whole-grain mustard (2 tablespoons): Those little seeds give the glaze texture and a subtle bite that surprises people in the best way.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Warm and fragrant, it makes the glaze smell like the holidays without overpowering the ham.
- Ground cloves (1/4 teaspoon): Use sparingly, cloves are strong but they add a depth that feels festive and a little old-fashioned.
- Orange slices (1 orange): They release citrus oils into the glaze as they cook, adding a fruity layer that brightens everything.
- Whole cloves (6): Studding the ham with these is traditional and they infuse the meat with a subtle spice as it cooks.
Instructions
- Prepare the ham:
- Place the ham flat side down in your slow cooker. Use a sharp knife to score the surface in a crisscross diamond pattern, about half an inch deep, then press whole cloves into some of the intersections.
- Make the glaze:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, brown sugar, both mustards, vinegar, cinnamon, and ground cloves until smooth. It should smell sweet and tangy at the same time.
- Glaze and add aromatics:
- Pour the glaze evenly over the ham, making sure it gets into the scored lines. Tuck the orange slices around 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 of the ham to keep it shiny and flavorful.
- Rest and thicken the glaze:
- When the ham is heated through and tender, carefully transfer it to a cutting board. Pour the remaining glaze into a saucepan and simmer over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Slice and serve:
- Carve the ham into thick slices and brush generously with the thickened glaze. Serve warm with extra glaze on the side.
Save The year I made this for Easter, my neighbor brought her kids over and one of them asked if we were making candy because it smelled so sweet. When I sliced into that ham and the glaze pooled on the platter, even the pickiest eater at the table went back for seconds. It became one of those dishes that people remember long after the meal is over.
Storage and Leftovers
Wrap leftover ham tightly in foil or transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. The meat stays moist and the glaze firms up a bit, which makes it perfect for slicing thin and piling onto sandwiches with sharp cheddar and mustard. You can also freeze cooked ham for up to 2 months, just let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently in a covered dish with a splash of water.
What to Serve Alongside
This ham pairs beautifully with roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes, which soak up the extra glaze if you spoon some over them. A simple arugula salad with a tart vinaigrette balances the sweetness, and creamy mashed potatoes or scalloped potatoes round out the plate. For drinks, a slightly sweet Riesling or a dry sparkling cider complements the honey glaze without competing with it.
Variations and Swaps
If you want a little boozy depth, add a splash of bourbon or dark rum to the glaze before pouring it over the ham. Maple syrup works in place of honey if you prefer a more earthy sweetness, and pineapple slices can replace the orange for a tropical twist. For a spicier kick, stir in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne.
- Try a glaze made with apricot preserves and soy sauce for a tangy-savory variation.
- Swap the cinnamon and cloves for ginger and star anise if you want an Asian-inspired flavor.
- Use a boneless ham if thats all you have, just reduce the cooking time by about an hour.
Save This ham has become my go-to whenever I need to feed a crowd without the stress. It does all the work while you handle everything else, and it never fails to impress.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I prepare the glaze for the ham?
Whisk together honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, whole-grain mustard, cinnamon, and ground cloves until smooth before pouring over the ham.
- → What is the purpose of scoring the ham surface?
Scoring creates a diamond pattern that helps the glaze penetrate and evenly flavor the ham during cooking.
- → Can I add bourbon to enhance the glaze?
Yes, a splash of bourbon can be added for extra depth and complexity in flavor.
- → How long should the ham cook in the slow cooker?
Cook the ham on low for about 6 hours, basting occasionally to ensure it remains moist and flavorful.
- → What sides pair well with this honey glazed ham?
Roasted root vegetables and a crisp white wine like Riesling complement the sweet and spiced flavors perfectly.
- → Is it safe for gluten-sensitive diets?
Yes, the dish is gluten-free as written, but always verify mustard and vinegar labels to avoid hidden gluten.