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Perfect Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Spiral Ham Recipe with Easy Glaze

slow cooker brown sugar spiral ham - featured image

A no-fuss, tender, and juicy spiral ham cooked in a slow cooker with a sticky-sweet brown sugar glaze, perfect for holidays and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Pre-sliced spiral ham (about 5-7 lbs / 2.3-3.2 kg)
  • 1 cup (200g) packed brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) honey
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) water

Instructions

  1. Prepare the glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup packed brown sugar, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 1/4 cup honey, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves, and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon until smooth. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the slow cooker: Pour 1/2 cup water into the slow cooker’s base to keep the ham moist during cooking.
  3. Place the ham flat-side down in the slow cooker. Tuck the slices slightly apart but keep the ham intact.
  4. Apply initial glaze: Using a basting brush or spoon, spread about half of the glaze evenly over the top and sides of the ham, including the spiral cuts.
  5. Cover and cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours. Avoid opening the lid frequently.
  6. After about 3 hours, baste the ham with the remaining glaze to develop a sticky, caramelized surface.
  7. About 30 minutes before the end, check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 140°F (60°C). If lower, cook longer.
  8. Remove the ham from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Notes

Do not skip adding water to the slow cooker base to keep the ham moist. Avoid opening the lid frequently to maintain steady heat. Baste twice for a glossy, sticky glaze finish. For extra crispness, broil the ham for 3-4 minutes after slow cooking, watching closely. The glaze can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker ham, brown sugar ham, spiral ham, holiday ham, easy ham recipe, glazed ham, slow cooker recipes