Indulge in the savory sweetness of Slow Cooker Copycat Honey Baked Ham, a delectable dish that brings the flavors of a classic holiday favorite right to your dinner table. With its tender, juicy ham coated in a blend of honey, brown sugar, and spices, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Join us as we explore the simple yet satisfying process of creating this mouthwatering masterpiece in your slow cooker.
Ingredients:
- 1 bone-in spiral sliced ham (6 to 8 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ham:
- Place the spiral sliced ham in the slow cooker, cut side down.
- Brush the melted butter evenly over the surface of the ham.
- Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, brown sugar, garlic powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, paprika, and salt until well combined.
- Glaze the Ham:
- Pour the glaze mixture over the ham, ensuring that it coats the entire surface.
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the ham is heated through and tender.
- Baste the Ham:
- Periodically baste the ham with the juices from the bottom of the slow cooker to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the ham is cooked to perfection, transfer it to a serving platter.
- Slice the ham and serve it warm, drizzling any remaining glaze from the slow cooker over the slices.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Serving Suggestions: Serve Slow Cooker Copycat Honey Baked Ham alongside classic holiday side dishes such as mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and dinner rolls for a complete meal.
- Leftover Ideas: Use leftover ham to make sandwiches, omelets, soups, or salads for delicious meals throughout the week.
- Customization: Customize the glaze by adjusting the amounts of honey, brown sugar, and spices to suit your personal taste preferences.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: Unfortunately, this recipe is not suitable for a keto diet due to its high sugar content. However, you can explore keto-friendly ham recipes using sugar-free sweeteners and low-carb glazes.
- Low Carb Version: To make a lower carb version, you can use a sugar-free sweetener such as erythritol or stevia in place of honey and brown sugar. Adjust the spices to taste and omit any high-carb ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I Use a Precooked Ham for This Recipe? Yes, you can use a precooked spiral sliced ham for this recipe. Simply follow the instructions for preparing the glaze and basting the ham in the slow cooker.
- How Do I Prevent the Ham from Drying Out? Basting the ham with the juices from the slow cooker throughout the cooking process will help keep it moist and tender.
- Can I Cook the Ham on High Heat Instead of Low? While cooking the ham on low heat allows it to cook slowly and evenly, you can cook it on high heat for a shorter period of time if needed. Just be sure to monitor it closely to prevent it from drying out.
- What Size Slow Cooker Do I Need for This Recipe? A 6 to 8-quart slow cooker works best for cooking a 6 to 8-pound spiral sliced ham.
- Can I Add Pineapple or Cherries to the Glaze? Yes, you can customize the glaze by adding pineapple juice or maraschino cherries for a classic sweet and tangy flavor.
In conclusion, Slow Cooker Copycat Honey Baked Ham is a mouthwatering dish that brings the flavors of a holiday classic to your dinner table with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to impress. With its tender, juicy ham and sweet, savory glaze, each bite is a delicious reminder of the joys of home cooking. So fire up your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the savory delight of Slow Cooker Copycat Honey Baked Ham with family and friends.
