Looking for a holiday main that almost cooks itself? This easy slow cooker glazed ham turns out tender, juicy, and full of sweet-savory flavor. It works for a Sunday family dinner, a holiday table, or a make-ahead meal for the busy week.
The ham simmers low and slow in its own juices with a splash of pineapple juice. Then a quick brown sugar and mustard glaze caramelizes under the broiler for a shiny, golden finish. The cooking takes some patience, but the hands-on work is very light.
Cooking difficulty is beginner friendly. If you can operate a slow cooker and a broiler, you can make this ham with confidence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in about 5 hours, with only 15 minutes of hands-on work
- Budget-friendly, since it uses a store-bought ham
- Family favorite with sweet and savory flavor
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
- Beginner friendly with simple steps
- Frees up your oven for side dishes
Ingredients
For the Ham
- 1 fully cooked spiral-cut or bone-in ham, about 6 to 8 pounds
- 1 cup pineapple juice or apple juice, for the slow cooker base
- 1 cup water, if your slow cooker is large and needs more liquid
For the Glaze
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey, plus more for drizzling
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, or yellow mustard as a budget swap
- 1 tsp ground mustard
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves, optional
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, for a bright finish
Helpful note: Check that your ham is fully cooked. Most labels say so. Spiral hams often come with a packet of seasoning, which you can use or skip.
Kitchen Equipment
- Oval slow cooker, 6 quarts or larger
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Meat thermometer
- Rimmed baking sheet
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Slow Cooker
- Pour the pineapple juice into the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the water if needed so the liquid covers about one inch of the bottom.
- If your ham has a bone, place it cut side down. For a spiral ham, place it cut side down as well so the glaze can seep between the slices.
Slow Cook the Ham
- Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. The ham is ready to glaze once the internal temperature reaches 120 to 125 degrees F.
- Use a meat thermometer. For a fully cooked ham, the goal is 140 degrees F in the thickest part, away from the bone.
Make the Glaze
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, honey, both mustards, cloves, and vinegar.
- Whisk for 2 to 3 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the mixture looks smooth and glossy. Keep it warm.
Glaze and Broil
- Carefully transfer the ham to a rimmed baking sheet. Pat it dry with paper towels so the glaze sticks.
- Brush the glaze generously over the ham, letting it drip between the slices.
- Set the oven rack about 6 inches from the broiler. Broil for 2 to 4 minutes until the glaze bubbles and turns deep golden.
- Watch closely, since sugar can burn in under a minute. Rotate the pan if the browning looks uneven.
- Rest the ham for 10 minutes before slicing so the juices settle.
Expert Tips
- Avoid overcooking: Ham is already cooked, so the goal is simply to warm it through. Stop at 140 degrees F.
- Keep the juices: Spoon some of the slow cooker liquid over slices before serving to keep them moist.
- Glaze in layers: Brush on half the glaze before broiling and the rest after for a richer coating.
- Fit check: Make sure the ham fits your slow cooker with the lid closed. Trim the shank end if needed.
- Skip the broiler shortcut: If you prefer, bake the glazed ham at 325 degrees F for 15 to 20 minutes instead.
Variations
Spicy Maple Glaze
Swap the honey for pure maple syrup and add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a gentle kick.
Pineapple Brown Sugar Glaze
Replace the vinegar with 2 tablespoons of pineapple juice for a sweeter, tropical flavor.
Kid Friendly Version
Skip the cloves and mustard, and use only brown sugar and honey for a milder taste.
Lower Sodium Option
Choose a reduced-sodium ham and use less glaze, since the sugar still adds flavor without extra salt.
What to Serve With
- Sides: Mashed potatoes, green beans, roasted carrots, and a simple green salad
- Bread: Soft dinner rolls or cornbread
- Drinks: Sparkling apple cider, iced tea, or lemonade
- Desserts: Apple crisp, pecan pie, or vanilla ice cream with warm pineapple
Storage
Refrigerator
Cool leftovers within two hours and store them in an airtight container. Refrigerated ham keeps for 3 to 4 days.
Freezer
Wrap sliced ham tightly in freezer bags. It keeps well for 1 to 2 months.
Reheating
Warm slices in a covered dish with a splash of broth or the slow cooker juices. Heat until hot throughout, about 165 degrees F.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a boneless ham?
Yes. Reduce the slow cooking time slightly and check the internal temperature early.
Do I need to add water?
Usually a cup of juice is enough. Add water only if your slow cooker looks dry.
Can I make the glaze ahead?
Yes. Store it in a jar in the refrigerator for up to one week, then warm it gently before brushing.
Why does my glaze look thin?
Let it simmer another minute or two. It will thicken as it cools slightly.
Can I cook the ham on high?
You can, but low heat keeps the meat more tender. Plan for about 2 to 3 hours on high.
What if I don’t have a broiler?
Bake the glazed ham at 325 degrees F for 15 to 20 minutes until bubbling.
Nutrition
Approximate values per 3-ounce serving, based on a typical glazed ham:
- Calories: about 230
- Protein: about 20 g
- Fat: about 12 g
- Carbs: about 10 g
- Fiber: about 0 g
- Sugar: about 8 g
- Sodium: about 900 mg
Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary.
Conclusion
Give this easy slow cooker glazed ham a try at your next family dinner or holiday gathering. It is simple, comforting, and hard to beat. Let us know in the comments how it turned out, and rate the recipe if you made it. Browse more recipes on our site for your next cozy meal.
