Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious slow cooker ham:
- 1 fully cooked bone-in or boneless ham (5–7 pounds)
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- A pinch of black pepper
These simple ingredients come together to create an irresistible sweet and savory glaze.
The brown sugar and honey provide sweetness, while the Dijon mustard adds a little tang. Orange juice brings a subtle fruity flavor that complements the natural taste of the ham.
How to Make Honey Brown Sugar Slow Cooker Ham
Step 1: Prepare the Ham
Start by removing the ham from its packaging. Check the package instructions to confirm that it is fully cooked and suitable for reheating.
If necessary, gently pat the outside dry with paper towels.
Place the ham inside your slow cooker, with the cut side facing down whenever possible.
If your ham is too large to fit comfortably, you can carefully cut it into two pieces.
For extra flavor, make a few shallow cuts across the outside surface of the ham. Avoid cutting too deeply into the meat.
These small cuts help the delicious glaze coat the surface more evenly.
Step 2: Make the Honey Brown Sugar Glaze
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the packed brown sugar and honey.
Add the orange juice, Dijon mustard, and melted butter.
Next, stir in the garlic powder, cinnamon, ground cloves, and black pepper.
Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
The glaze should be thick, sweet, and slightly glossy.
The brown sugar gives it a wonderful caramel flavor, while the honey creates that delicious sticky texture.
The Dijon mustard balances the sweetness and adds a subtle tangy flavor that makes this glaze especially delicious.
Step 3: Coat the Ham
Pour about two-thirds of the prepared glaze over the ham in the slow cooker.
Use a spoon to spread the mixture over the entire surface.
If you’re using a spiral-cut ham, gently separate some of the slices and spoon a little glaze between them.
This allows the sweet sauce to reach more of the meat, making every bite flavorful.
Reserve the remaining glaze for later in the cooking process.
Step 4: Slow Cook the Ham
Place the lid securely on your slow cooker.
Cook on LOW for approximately 4–5 hours or on HIGH for 2–3 hours, depending on the size and shape of your ham.
For the best texture, LOW is generally the preferred setting.
Because the ham is already fully cooked, the goal is to warm it gently while allowing the glaze to develop its flavor.
As the ham heats, the honey, brown sugar, and other ingredients will combine with the natural juices to create a delicious sauce.
Try not to lift the lid too often, as this releases heat and increases the cooking time.
Step 5: Add the Remaining Glaze
About 30 minutes before the ham is finished, carefully remove the lid.
Pour the remaining honey brown sugar glaze over the top.
Use a spoon to spread it evenly, making sure the sauce reaches the sides and between the slices.
If there is already some delicious cooking liquid at the bottom of the slow cooker, spoon a little over the ham as well.
Replace the lid and continue cooking until the ham reaches the recommended serving temperature.
For a fully cooked ham being reheated for hot serving, follow the package instructions. USDA guidance for fully cooked, packaged hams from inspected facilities generally recommends reheating to 140°F (60°C).
Step 6: Thicken the Glaze for Extra Flavor
If you prefer a thicker, stickier glaze, this optional step is worth trying.
Carefully remove some of the cooking liquid from the slow cooker and transfer it to a small saucepan.
Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
Allow the sauce to reduce for a few minutes until it becomes slightly thicker and more concentrated.
Be careful not to let the sugar burn.
Once the glaze reaches your preferred consistency, remove it from the heat.
This extra sauce is perfect for spooning over individual slices just before serving.
Step 7: Rest, Slice, and Serve
Once the ham is heated through, carefully transfer it to a large serving platter.
Allow it to rest for a few minutes if you need to carve it.
Spoon some of the delicious honey brown sugar glaze over the top.
Slice the ham into generous portions and serve while warm.
The finished ham should be tender, juicy, beautifully glazed, and full of sweet and savory flavor.
Every slice is coated with that irresistible honey brown sugar sauce!
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Ham
Choose a good-quality ham: A fully cooked bone-in ham is an excellent option because it has wonderful flavor. Boneless ham also works perfectly.
Cook on LOW whenever possible: Gentle cooking helps prevent the meat from drying out.
Don’t add too much liquid: Ham naturally releases moisture as it heats, so the glaze usually provides enough liquid for this recipe.
Add the glaze in stages: Pouring some glaze at the beginning and the remainder near the end helps build layers of flavor.
Check the internal temperature: Cooking times can vary depending on the size of the ham and your slow cooker. A food thermometer is the most reliable way to check that it’s properly reheated.
Don’t overcook it: Since you’re starting with fully cooked ham, excessive cooking can make it dry and less tender.
What to Serve with Honey Brown Sugar Ham
This delicious ham pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes.
For a classic comfort-food dinner, serve it with creamy mashed potatoes. Their buttery texture is perfect for soaking up the sweet glaze.
Roasted vegetables are another wonderful choice. Carrots, green beans, Brussels sprouts, and broccoli all complement the rich flavor of the ham.
Here are some more delicious serving ideas:
- Creamy garlic mashed potatoes.
- Roasted baby potatoes.
- Southern-style green beans.
- Honey-glazed carrots.
- Baked macaroni and cheese.
- Sweet potato casserole.
- Creamy scalloped potatoes.
- Buttered corn.
- Fresh garden salad.
- Homemade dinner rolls.
For a holiday meal, combine the ham with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, homemade rolls, and a fresh salad for a beautiful family feast.
Delicious Recipe Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize.
Honey Maple Ham: Replace half of the honey with pure maple syrup for a deeper, richer sweetness.
Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham: Add pineapple chunks and a little pineapple juice for a fruity tropical flavor.
Spicy Honey Ham: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to balance the sweetness with a little heat.
Garlic Butter Ham: Increase the garlic powder slightly and add an extra tablespoon of butter for a richer glaze.
Holiday Spice Ham: Add a little extra cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground cloves for a warm, festive flavor.
Each variation gives the ham a slightly different personality while keeping the same easy slow cooker method.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, allow the ham to cool slightly before transferring it to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
For the best results, keep some of the cooking juices or glaze with the leftover slices. This helps prevent the meat from drying out.
To reheat, place the slices in a skillet over low heat with a few spoonfuls of glaze. Cover and warm gently until heated through.
You can also reheat the ham in the oven at 325°F in a covered baking dish with a little cooking liquid.
For longer storage, freeze leftover ham in airtight containers or freezer bags for 1–2 months for best quality.
Thaw frozen ham in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use spiral-cut ham for this recipe?
Absolutely! Spiral-cut ham works wonderfully because the glaze can easily get between the slices. Just be careful not to overcook it, as thin slices can dry out more quickly.
Can I make this recipe without orange juice?
Yes! You can substitute pineapple juice, apple juice, broth, or a little water. Each option will give the glaze a slightly different flavor.
Why is my slow cooker ham dry?
Ham can become dry if it cooks for too long or at an excessively high temperature. Since you’re using fully cooked ham, focus on gently reheating it rather than cooking it for an extended period.
Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?
Yes! You can mix all the glaze ingredients a day in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Can I use fresh, uncooked ham?
Fresh ham can be prepared in a slow cooker, but it requires a different cooking method and must be fully cooked to a safe internal temperature. Do not use the reheating times in this recipe for raw pork.
Can I make this recipe in a smaller slow cooker?
Yes, provided the ham fits comfortably with the lid closed. If necessary, cut the ham into smaller portions to fit.
Final Thoughts
This Honey Brown Sugar Slow Cooker Ham is the perfect combination of convenience, comfort, and incredible flavor.
The sweet honey, rich brown sugar, tangy Dijon mustard, and warm spices create a beautiful glaze that makes every slice absolutely delicious.
Thanks to the slow cooker, preparing a delicious family meal has never been easier. Simply prepare the glaze, coat the ham, and let it warm gently while you take care of everything else.
Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or your favorite holiday sides for a meal everyone will remember.
Whether you’re making it for Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a simple Sunday dinner, this easy slow cooker ham is sure to become a family favorite!