Effortless Elegance: Slow Cooker Honey Baked Spiral Ham

Forget oven juggling and holiday stress! This recipe for Slow Cooker Honey Baked Spiral Ham delivers a succulent, flavorful centerpiece with minimal effort. The slow cooker transforms a pre-cooked spiral ham into a moist and tender masterpiece, infused with the sweet and savory notes of a honey-based glaze. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or even a simple Sunday supper, this recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for a hands-off approach to a show-stopping ham.

## Why Slow Cooker Honey Baked Spiral Ham?

There are several compelling reasons to choose the slow cooker method for your honey baked spiral ham:

* **Moisture Retention:** The slow, gentle cooking process locks in moisture, preventing the ham from drying out. Spiral-cut hams, while convenient, are prone to drying out in the oven. The slow cooker solves this problem beautifully.
* **Effortless Cooking:** Set it and forget it! With minimal prep time and no need for constant monitoring, the slow cooker frees up your oven and your time for other dishes and activities.
* **Flavor Infusion:** The slow cooking process allows the honey glaze to deeply penetrate the ham, resulting in a richer, more flavorful experience.
* **Space Saving:** Especially during holidays, oven space is at a premium. The slow cooker provides an alternative cooking method, freeing up your oven for side dishes and desserts.
* **Consistent Results:** Achieve consistently tender and flavorful ham every time, regardless of your cooking skills.

## Ingredients You’ll Need:

* **Spiral-Cut Ham:** 8-10 pound pre-cooked, bone-in spiral-cut ham (ensure it fits in your slow cooker!)
* **Honey:** 1 cup, preferably a flavorful variety like clover or wildflower
* **Brown Sugar:** 1/2 cup, packed
* **Dijon Mustard:** 2 tablespoons
* **Apple Cider Vinegar:** 2 tablespoons
* **Pineapple Juice:** 1/4 cup (optional, adds a tangy sweetness)
* **Ground Cloves:** 1/4 teaspoon
* **Ground Cinnamon:** 1/4 teaspoon
* **Ginger:** 1/4 teaspoon ground (or 1 tablespoon fresh, grated)
* **Butter:** 2 tablespoons, unsalted
* **Optional Garnishes:** Pineapple slices, maraschino cherries, fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme)

## Equipment You’ll Need:

* **Slow Cooker:** 6-quart or larger oval slow cooker (make sure your ham fits! If it doesn’t, you may need to trim it or use a larger slow cooker or the oven).
* **Small Saucepan:** For making the glaze.
* **Whisk:** For combining the glaze ingredients.
* **Basting Brush:** For applying the glaze.
* **Meat Thermometer:** To ensure the ham is heated through.
* **Aluminum Foil:** Optional, for lining the slow cooker and creating a foil sling.

## Step-by-Step Instructions:

### Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

* **Lining (Optional):** You can line your slow cooker with aluminum foil for easier cleanup. This is particularly helpful if your slow cooker tends to stick. Simply create a criss-cross pattern with two long sheets of foil, leaving enough overhang to easily lift the ham out later.
* **Foil Sling (Optional):** Create a foil sling by folding a long sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil into a thick strip. Place the sling in the bottom of the slow cooker. This will make it easier to lift the ham out after cooking, especially if it’s large.

### Step 2: Make the Honey Glaze

* In a small saucepan, combine the honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, pineapple juice (if using), ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and ginger.
* Add the butter to the saucepan.
* Over medium heat, whisk the ingredients together until the brown sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
* Bring the glaze to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. This will help the glaze adhere better to the ham.
* Remove the glaze from the heat and set aside.

### Step 3: Prepare the Ham

* Remove the ham from its packaging and discard any packaging materials or netting.
* If the ham has a bone guard (a plastic piece covering the bone), you can remove it if desired. It’s usually not necessary, but it can make carving easier later.
* Place the ham, cut-side down, in the slow cooker. This helps to keep the ham moist as it cooks.

### Step 4: Glaze the Ham

* Using a basting brush, generously brush about half of the honey glaze all over the ham, making sure to get in between the slices. This will ensure that the glaze infuses the ham with flavor.
* Reserve the remaining glaze for basting later.

### Step 5: Slow Cook the Ham

* Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the ham is heated through.
* The internal temperature of the ham should reach 140°F (60°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the ham, away from the bone.
* The cooking time will vary depending on the size of your ham and the efficiency of your slow cooker. Start checking the temperature after 3 hours.

### Step 6: Baste and Glaze Again

* During the last 30-45 minutes of cooking, remove the lid and baste the ham with the remaining honey glaze every 15 minutes. This will create a beautiful, sticky glaze on the surface of the ham.
* Continue cooking until the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).

### Step 7: Rest and Serve

* Once the ham is cooked through, carefully remove it from the slow cooker using the foil sling (if you used one) or two large spatulas. Be careful, as the ham will be hot and the juices will be flowing.
* Place the ham on a cutting board and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham.
* Garnish with optional pineapple slices, maraschino cherries, and fresh herbs, if desired.
* Carve the ham and serve immediately. Enjoy!

## Tips for the Perfect Slow Cooker Honey Baked Spiral Ham:

* **Choose the Right Ham:** Select a high-quality, pre-cooked, bone-in spiral-cut ham that fits comfortably in your slow cooker. Avoid hams that are excessively salty or have a lot of added water.
* **Don’t Overcook:** Overcooking will dry out the ham. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
* **Adjust the Glaze:** Feel free to customize the glaze to your liking. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat, or a splash of bourbon for a richer flavor.
* **Use a Ham Holder:** If you have a ham holder, it can be helpful for carving the ham more easily.
* **Let it Rest:** Allowing the ham to rest before carving is crucial for ensuring that it remains moist and tender.
* **Save the Juices:** Don’t discard the juices left in the slow cooker! These flavorful juices can be used to make a delicious sauce or gravy to serve with the ham.
* **Dealing with a Ham Too Big for the Slow Cooker:** If your ham is too large for your slow cooker, you have a couple of options. First, you can trim the end of the ham to make it fit. Alternatively, you can use the oven. Place the ham in a roasting pan with a rack, add about 1 cup of water or broth to the bottom of the pan, cover with foil, and bake at 325°F (160°C) until heated through, basting with the glaze during the last hour.

## Variations and Additions:

* **Maple Glaze:** Substitute maple syrup for the honey for a different flavor profile.
* **Brown Sugar Glaze:** Omit the honey and double the amount of brown sugar for a richer, more caramel-like glaze.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze for a little heat.
* **Citrus Zest:** Add the zest of an orange or lemon to the glaze for a bright, citrusy flavor.
* **Bourbon or Whiskey:** Add a tablespoon or two of bourbon or whiskey to the glaze for a richer, more complex flavor.
* **Pineapple:** Add pineapple rings to the slow cooker around the ham for extra flavor and a festive presentation.

## Serving Suggestions:

Slow Cooker Honey Baked Spiral Ham is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides.

* **Classic Sides:** Mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole, green bean casserole, macaroni and cheese, cornbread, dinner rolls.
* **Vegetable Sides:** Roasted asparagus, glazed carrots, Brussels sprouts with bacon, creamed spinach.
* **Salads:** Cranberry sauce, fruit salad, Waldorf salad, green salad with vinaigrette.
* **Desserts:** Pumpkin pie, apple pie, pecan pie, chocolate cake.

## Storing Leftovers:

* **Refrigerate:** Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Freeze:** You can also freeze leftover ham for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn.

## Reheating Leftovers:

* **Oven:** Reheat leftover ham in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through. Wrap it in foil to prevent it from drying out.
* **Microwave:** Reheat leftover ham in the microwave on medium power until heated through.
* **Skillet:** Reheat sliced ham in a skillet with a little butter or oil over medium heat until heated through.

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

* **Can I use a boneless ham?** While a bone-in ham is preferred for flavor, you can use a boneless spiral ham. Reduce the cooking time by about 30-60 minutes.
* **Do I need to add water to the slow cooker?** No, you do not need to add water to the slow cooker. The ham will release its own juices as it cooks.
* **Can I make this recipe ahead of time?** Yes, you can make the honey glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also cook the ham ahead of time and reheat it before serving.
* **My ham is drying out in the slow cooker. What am I doing wrong?** Make sure you are not overcooking the ham. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). You can also try adding a little pineapple juice or apple cider vinegar to the slow cooker to help keep the ham moist.
* **Can I use a different type of mustard?** Yes, you can use a different type of mustard, such as grainy mustard or spicy brown mustard. Just be aware that it will change the flavor of the glaze.

## Slow Cooker Honey Baked Spiral Ham Recipe Card

**Yields:** 12-16 servings
**Prep time:** 15 minutes
**Cook time:** 3-4 hours

**Ingredients:**

* 8-10 pound pre-cooked, bone-in spiral-cut ham
* 1 cup honey
* 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
* 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
* 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
* 1/4 cup pineapple juice (optional)
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
* 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Slow Cooker:** Line the slow cooker with aluminum foil (optional). Place a foil sling in the bottom of the slow cooker (optional).
2. **Make the Honey Glaze:** In a small saucepan, combine the honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, pineapple juice (if using), ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and ginger. Add the butter. Over medium heat, whisk the ingredients together until the brown sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Bring the glaze to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat.
3. **Prepare the Ham:** Remove the ham from its packaging. Place the ham, cut-side down, in the slow cooker.
4. **Glaze the Ham:** Using a basting brush, generously brush about half of the honey glaze all over the ham, making sure to get in between the slices. Reserve the remaining glaze.
5. **Slow Cook the Ham:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the ham is heated through (internal temperature of 140°F/60°C).
6. **Baste and Glaze Again:** During the last 30-45 minutes of cooking, remove the lid and baste the ham with the remaining honey glaze every 15 minutes.
7. **Rest and Serve:** Carefully remove the ham from the slow cooker. Place on a cutting board and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Garnish with optional pineapple slices, maraschino cherries, and fresh herbs. Carve and serve.

Enjoy your effortless and elegant Slow Cooker Honey Baked Spiral Ham!