Slow Cooker Spiral Ham

Slow Cooker Spiral Ham is a dish that’s not just about filling your stomach; it’s an experience that brings family and friends together around the table. The tender, juicy slices of ham bathed in a luscious brown sugar glaze add a sweetness that’s hard to resist. The slow cooker works its magic, allowing the flavors to meld together as it cooks low and slow, resulting in a dish that’s perfectly tender and packed with flavor. With minimal effort on your part and just a few fresh ingredients, you’ll be rewarded with a show-stopping centerpiece for your next gathering.

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There is something uniquely joyful about the aroma of a Slow Cooker Spiral Ham wafting through the kitchen. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was for a holiday dinner with close friends, and I was excited to see their faces light up as they savored the first bites. The glaze caramelized beautifully, sparkling just so under the kitchen lights, while the ham itself was so tender you could cut it with a fork. This recipe not only saves you time but also takes the stress out of meal preparation—perfect for both special occasions and casual family dinners. I can’t wait for you to experience its deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple & Quick: With just 5 minutes of prep time, it’s hassle-free and perfect for busy days.
• Irresistible Flavor: The sweet and savory blend of brown sugar and maple syrup adds depth to the ham like no other.
• Eye-Catching Appeal: A beautifully glazed ham makes for an impressive centerpiece that will wow your guests.
• Flexible Serving: Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or even Sunday dinners!
• Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for a variety of diets, especially with gluten-free syrup and sides.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 (7-9 pound) fully cooked bone-in spiral ham: Look for a pre-cooked ham for easy preparation. If you prefer a boneless ham, just adjust cooking time slightly.
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar: This brings a nice sweetness and caramelized flavor once cooked. Dark brown sugar can be substituted for deeper flavor.
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup: Use pure maple syrup for its rich taste and comforting aroma. Avoid imitation syrup, as it lacks the flavor you want here.
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: This adds tang and complexity to the glaze. If you don’t have Dijon, you can use yellow mustard in a pinch.
• 3/4 cup canned pineapple juice: Canned juice is necessary for the right acidity balance and sweetness; fresh pineapple juice may not yield the same results.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A touch of spice enhances the overall flavor. Feel free to add more if you like a stronger contrast.
• Pinch ground cloves: These add warmth and a subtle spice that rounds out the sweetness beautifully. Use nutmeg as a substitute if needed.
• Cornstarch: Used for thickening the glaze after cooking, it helps create a glossy finish.

How to Make Slow Cooker Spiral Ham

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place the ham cut-side down in a large slow cooker. This allows it to absorb the glaze better.
2. Mix the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar, 1/4 cup pure maple syrup, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 3/4 cup canned pineapple juice, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper until smooth. The mixture should be well combined and slightly thick.
3. Glaze the Ham: Pour or brush about one-third of the glaze over the ham, ensuring you spread some between the slices to infuse flavor throughout.
4. Cook the Ham: Cover and cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours. Baste with the remaining glaze once or twice during cooking. The ham is ready when the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
5. Thicken the Glaze: Transfer about 2 cups of the cooking liquid/remaining glaze to a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then whisk 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with just enough cold water to dissolve it. Whisk this slurry into the boiling liquid, and simmer for 1-2 minutes until thickened.
6. Serve the Ham: Slice the ham and arrange it on a platter, or you can return it to the slow cooker on warm until ready to serve. Drizzle with the thickened glaze just before serving to add that mouthwatering finish, and pass extra glaze at the table for those who want a little more.

Storing & Reheating

Leftover Slow Cooker Spiral Ham can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days. If you want to save it for longer, freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through (about 15-20 minutes, depending on thickness). Note that reheating may slightly change the texture, so adding a little more glaze or a splash of broth can help refresh the flavor.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

• Don’t Rush It: Low and slow is key to retain juiciness and flavor. Resist the urge to cook it on high.
• Keep It Moist: Baste the ham with the glaze once or twice to avoid drying out; this also enhances the flavor.
• Thickness Matters: When thickening the glaze, whisk the cornstarch well to avoid lumps. A smooth sauce is what you want.
• Taste and Adjust: Feel free to tweak the sweetness or acidity by adding more pineapple juice or brown sugar to taste.
• Make Ahead: Don’t hesitate to prepare the glaze a day ahead—this makes meal prep even easier!

Slow Cooker Spiral Ham is a showcase of comforting, warming goodness that can become your go-to dish for family gatherings and holidays alike. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with its impressive appearance, guarantees that everyone will be coming back for seconds. So, gather your loved ones, pour a glass of your favorite drink, and settle in for a deliciously satisfying meal together. You’ll find not only a recipe that’s easy to whip up but also one that creates lasting memories around the table.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different type of ham?

Absolutely! While this recipe features a bone-in spiral ham, you can use a boneless ham as well. Just adjust the cooking time, as boneless hams tend to cook a bit faster.

How do I know when the ham is done?

The best way to know if your ham is ready is by checking the internal temperature. It should reach 140°F at its thickest part. Investing in a good meat thermometer can take the guesswork out of cooking.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the glaze a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container, and when you’re ready to use it, heat it up slightly before applying it to the ham.

What should I serve with the ham?

This Slow Cooker Spiral Ham pairs beautifully with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a light salad. If you’re feeling festive, consider adding some dinner rolls for soaking up all that delightful glaze!

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