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Easy Slow Cooker Ham Recipe with Brown Sugar Glaze Perfect for Holidays

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This easy slow cooker ham with brown sugar glaze is a fuss-free, flavorful holiday main dish that combines tender ham with a sweet and tangy caramelized glaze. Perfect for busy days and special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 to 5 pounds fully cooked ham, bone-in or boneless
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)

Instructions

  1. Remove any packaging and place the ham cut-side down into the slow cooker. Trim or score the skin if desired.
  2. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves (if using), and honey or maple syrup. Stir until smooth.
  3. Add 1/2 cup water to the bottom of the slow cooker to keep the ham moist.
  4. Spoon half the glaze evenly over the ham, covering top and sides.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2.5 to 3 hours. Halfway through, baste the ham with more glaze.
  6. When done, the glaze should be sticky and caramelized. Remove ham and let rest for 10-15 minutes.
  7. Slice the ham with a sharp knife and serve with any glaze from the slow cooker.

Notes

Do not skip adding water to keep ham moist and prevent glaze from burning. Baste halfway through cooking for best glaze coverage. If glaze is too thin, simmer it in a saucepan to thicken before serving. Use low heat for juicier ham. Score the ham surface to help glaze soak in. Use a sharp knife for clean slices. Thaw frozen ham completely before cooking. Adjust cooking time for spiral-cut hams.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker ham, brown sugar glaze, holiday ham, easy ham recipe, slow cooker recipes, glazed ham, holiday main dish