Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Ham is a perfect main dish for holidays, special occasions, or a comforting weeknight dinner. The ham is slow-cooked in a rich glaze made from honey, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar, resulting in tender, flavorful meat with a sweet and tangy glaze. This hassle-free recipe allows you to set it and forget it while your ham slowly cooks to perfection!
Ingredients
- 1 (6-8 lb) fully cooked, bone-in ham (spiral-cut or whole)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for added warmth)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- 1/2 cup water or apple juice (for extra moisture)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or rosemary (optional)
- Pineapple slices or cherries (optional, for a holiday touch)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, cinnamon (if using), and cloves (if using). This will create the sweet and tangy glaze for the ham.
Step 2: Prepare the Ham
- If your ham is spiral-cut, you can separate the slices slightly to allow the glaze to penetrate more evenly. If the ham is whole, score the surface in a crisscross pattern with a sharp knife.
Step 3: Place the Ham in the Slow Cooker
- Pour the water or apple juice into the bottom of your slow cooker to help keep the ham moist during cooking.
- Place the ham cut-side down in the slow cooker, ensuring it fits snugly.
Step 4: Add the Glaze
- Brush the honey mustard glaze generously over the entire ham, making sure to coat it thoroughly. If you have a spiral-cut ham, try to get some of the glaze between the slices.
- Reserve any leftover glaze for basting during cooking.
Step 5: Cook the Ham
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook the ham on LOW for 4-6 hours, or until the ham is heated through and tender. For smaller hams, aim for 4 hours, and for larger hams, cook closer to 6 hours.
- Baste the ham with the leftover glaze or the juices from the slow cooker a couple of times during cooking to enhance the flavor.
Step 6: Serve
- Once the ham is done, transfer it to a serving platter and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary, or add pineapple slices and cherries for a festive touch if desired.
Step 7: Optional Glaze Thickening (Optional)
- If you want a thicker glaze, transfer the leftover juices from the slow cooker to a small saucepan. Simmer the liquid over medium heat until it reduces and thickens, about 5-10 minutes, then drizzle over the ham before serving.
Cook Notes
- Spiral-Cut Ham: Using a spiral-cut ham makes it easier to serve, but a whole ham works just as well for this recipe.
- Moisture: The water or apple juice in the bottom of the slow cooker helps keep the ham moist and tender as it cooks.
- Glaze Variations: You can substitute Dijon mustard with whole grain mustard or honey mustard for different flavor profiles.
Variations
- Pineapple Honey Mustard Ham: Add 1/2 cup of crushed pineapple or pineapple juice to the glaze for a fruity twist.
- Maple Honey Mustard Ham: Swap out honey for maple syrup to give the ham a rich, sweet maple flavor.
- Spicy Honey Mustard Ham: Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a boneless ham?
Yes, you can use a boneless ham. Just adjust the cooking time as boneless hams tend to cook faster. Check for tenderness after about 3-4 hours.
How do I know when the ham is done?
Since the ham is already pre-cooked, you’re simply heating it through. The ham should reach an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) for serving. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze leftover ham for up to 3 months.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the honey mustard glaze up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and brush it over the ham just before cooking.
What can I serve with slow-cooker honey mustard ham?
This ham pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or classic sides like green bean casserole, macaroni and cheese, or cornbread.
Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Ham is a sweet, savory, and tangy dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. The slow cooker allows the ham to absorb the rich flavors of the honey mustard glaze while staying moist and tender. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, this dish will impress your family and guests!
