Skip to content 
This honey-glazed ham recipe is a culinary masterpiece, perfect for holidays, parties, or a special weeknight dinner. The slow cooker does all the work, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful ham with a sweet and sticky glaze. Let’s get cooking!
Slow Cooker Honey-Glazed Ham: The Perfect Preparation
This recipe takes advantage of the slow cooker’s gentle heat to create a melt-in-your-mouth ham, infused with delicious flavor. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights or special occasions, and the leftovers are amazing!
Ingredients
- 2-3 lb boneless smoked ham joint
- 1 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 small onion, quartered
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions
Soaking the Ham (Optional but Recommended):
For extra tenderness, soak the ham in cold water for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. This helps to reduce saltiness and enhance moisture. Find more tips on ham preparation here.
Preparing the Slow Cooker:
Place the soaked ham in the slow cooker. Add the onion, carrots, and garlic (if using) around the ham. This helps create a flavorful broth.
Making the Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper. This creates a delicious sweet and savory glaze.
Slow Cooking the Ham:
Pour the glaze over the ham. Add enough water to the slow cooker to barely cover the bottom of the pot. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Check for tenderness and adjust cooking time as needed.
Finishing the Honey Glazed Ham:
Once cooked, carefully remove the ham from the slow cooker and transfer it to a broiler pan. Remove and discard any rind from the ham. Ladle about 3 spoonfuls of the flavorful stock from the slow cooker into the base of the broiler pan. This will keep the ham moist and add flavor to the pan sauce.
Spoon the honey-mustard glaze generously over the top and sides of the ham. Place the broiler pan under a preheated broiler (grill) and broil until the ham is beautifully golden brown and the glaze is caramelized and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Serving the Honey Glazed Ham:
Carve the honey-glazed ham into slices. Serve with the delicious pan sauce from the broiler pan and the drained, tender vegetables from the slow cooker. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables would pair wonderfully. See our side dish ideas page for more inspiration.
Tips and Variations for a Delicious Honey-Glazed Ham
Elevate your slow cooker honey-glazed ham beyond the basic recipe with these simple yet impactful tips and variations. Customize the sweetness, add a touch of heat, or expand the meal to include more sides.
Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of honey to your preference. For a sweeter glaze, increase the honey; for a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount. Experiment to find the perfect balance of sweet and savory that suits your taste buds.
Spice it Up: Enhance the flavor profile with a touch of heat. A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce will add a delightful kick to the glaze. Consider using a different chili pepper for a unique flavor, such as a finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch of smoked paprika.
Expand Your Meal: Transform your ham from a standalone dish to a complete meal by adding vegetables to the slow cooker. Potatoes, celery, and carrots are excellent choices, adding texture and flavor to the dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding other root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes. These additions will not only complement the ham’s glaze but also add valuable nutrients to your meal.
Beyond the Glaze: Don’t be afraid to experiment with other flavor combinations. Consider adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy contrast, or a splash of apple cider vinegar for a touch of acidity. These subtle additions can elevate the overall flavor profile and create a truly unique honey-glazed ham experience.
Enjoy this delicious and easy honey-glazed ham recipe! Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts and feedback – we’d love to hear about your variations and how you adapted this recipe to your liking.ack in the comments below. Happy cooking!
