If you’re searching for a heartwarming centerpiece that effortlessly delivers sweet, savory, and tender flavors, this Crock Pot Honey Glazed Ham Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine a ham so juicy, coated in a glossy honey glaze that seeps deep into every slice, all made simply in your crock pot. It’s a perfect dish for festive occasions or a cozy family dinner, combining easy prep with a show-stopping finish. This recipe brings together familiar ingredients into a comforting classic that anyone can master and love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients ready for this Crock Pot Honey Glazed Ham Recipe is refreshingly simple, yet each component plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of flavors and texture. From the sweetness of honey and brown sugar to the tanginess of Dijon mustard and orange juice, every element adds depth and richness to the glaze that defines this dish.
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup, packed): Provides a deep, caramel-like sweetness that complements the meat beautifully.
- Runny honey (3/4 cup): The heart of the glaze, adding natural sweetness and a lovely shiny finish.
- Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Offers a subtle tang that balances the glaze’s sweetness.
- Orange juice (1/2 cup, no pulp): Brings bright citrus notes that lighten the glaze and enhance flavor complexity.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Used to thicken the glaze to a luscious consistency for serving.
- Whole cloves (5, optional): Infuse warm, aromatic hints that elevate the glaze’s profile (feel free to omit for a milder taste).
- Salt (a pinch): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the sweetness.
- Boneless fully cooked ham (~5 lb): The star of the show, ready to soak up all that fantastic glaze in the slow cooker.
How to Make Crock Pot Honey Glazed Ham Recipe
Step 1: Make the Sweet Honey Glaze
Start by combining every ingredient except the ham in a small saucepan. Whisk everything together over medium heat until it reaches a gentle boil. Keep whisking constantly to prevent burning and help the glaze thicken slightly. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld and sweet aromas fill your kitchen. If you used cloves, now is the time to fish them out for a smoother finish.
Step 2: Slow Cook the Ham to Perfection
Next, place your ham in the slow cooker, choosing one large enough to comfortably fit the meat with its lid closed. Pour the fresh honey glaze over the ham, coating it generously. Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours, or on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours. The slow cooker will tenderize the ham beautifully while infusing it with the delectable honey glaze. If you have a moment, baste the ham every hour to build up that enticing sticky crust.
Step 3: Rest and Prepare to Serve
Once the ham has cooked thoroughly and reached an internal temperature of 140°F, take it out and let it rest on a chopping board for 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that every slice stays juicy and tender. After this short wait, slice the ham to your preferred thickness and get ready to enjoy the delicious results.
Step 4: Thicken the Glaze for Serving
If your leftover glaze looks a little too runny for your taste, no worries. Place it back in a small saucepan and whisk together a simple slurry made by mixing 2 to 3 teaspoons of cornstarch with 1 to 2 tablespoons of orange juice. Stir this into the glaze and simmer until it thickens to a lovely syrupy consistency perfect for drizzling over your ham slices. This little extra step turns the glaze into a luscious sauce that will wow your guests.
How to Serve Crock Pot Honey Glazed Ham Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and bring out the glaze’s inviting hues, consider garnishing your ham with a sprinkling of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. Orange slices arranged on the serving platter echo the citrus in the glaze and add vibrant color. For a festive touch, stud the ham lightly with whole cloves before serving for that classic holiday look and warm spice scent.
Side Dishes
This Crock Pot Honey Glazed Ham Recipe pairs beautifully with an array of side dishes. Think creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting vibe, or a crisp green salad for something lighter. Sweet potatoes, glazed carrots, or a tangy coleslaw also make fantastic companions that complement the ham’s sweet and savory notes perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fresh twist, slice the ham and layer it on sliders with a dollop of honey mustard or a pickle slice for a delightful bite-sized treat. Turning leftover ham into a hearty sandwich with crisp lettuce and melted cheese is another winner. Alternatively, arrange slices artistically on a wooden board with assorted cheeses and fruits for a charming charcuterie-style display that guests will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Crock Pot Honey Glazed Ham Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors often deepen after resting, making the ham even tastier the next day. Just make sure to keep the glaze separate or spoon it back on when serving again to maintain that sticky, appetizing finish.
Freezing
If you want to save some ham for later enjoyment, this recipe freezes wonderfully. Slice the meat and portion it into freezer-safe bags, ideally with a bit of the glaze to keep the meat moist. Try to consume frozen ham within 2 to 3 months for best flavor and texture. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat your honey glazed ham slices in a low oven or covered in the microwave to avoid drying. Basting with the reserved glaze during warming helps restore that beautiful shine and juicy tenderness. This simple technique ensures your leftovers come back to life just as deliciously as when freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use a bone-in ham instead of boneless?
Absolutely! A bone-in ham can add extra flavor and moisture. Just make sure your crock pot is large enough to accommodate it and adjust the cooking time as needed, usually adding an extra hour on low heat.
Is it necessary to baste the ham during cooking?
Basting is recommended but not mandatory. It helps develop a glossy, sticky crust by redistributing the glaze and keeps the surface moist. If you’re busy, the ham will still be tasty without it.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, the glaze can be prepared a day ahead. Store it in the fridge and reheat gently before applying it to the ham for cooking. This helps save time on the day you’re serving.
What if I don’t have orange juice on hand?
You can substitute with pineapple juice or apple juice. Both add a fruity brightness, though orange juice has a uniquely fresh citrus flavor that pairs perfectly with honey and mustard.
Does this ham need to be fully cooked before using this recipe?
Yes, it’s important to use a ham that is already fully cooked. This recipe focuses on re-heating and glazing the ham while infusing flavor, rather than cooking it from raw.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the ease and flavor of this Crock Pot Honey Glazed Ham Recipe. Whether you’re preparing for a family feast, a holiday gathering, or just a comforting dinner, this dish delivers a wonderful balance of sweet and savory that’s sure to bring smiles to the table. Give it a try and enjoy the warmth and joy that come with each tender, glossy slice!
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Crock Pot Honey Glazed Ham Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Crock Pot Honey Glazed Ham recipe offers a tender, flavorful ham slow-cooked to perfection with a sweet and tangy honey glaze. Featuring a blend of brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and orange juice, this easy-to-make dish is perfect for holiday gatherings or Sunday dinners.
Ingredients
Glaze Ingredients
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 3/4 cup runny honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup orange juice (no pulp)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (divided)
- 5 whole cloves (optional)
- 1 pinch of salt
Main Ingredient
- 1 (~5 lb) ham (boneless & fully cooked)
Instructions
- Make glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, orange juice, cornstarch (1 tablespoon), cloves, and salt. Whisk well and bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, whisking constantly. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes until the glaze thickens slightly. Remove the cloves if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Slow cook ham: Place the ham in a large slow cooker ensuring it fits with the lid closed. Pour the prepared glaze evenly over the ham. Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours or on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours. Baste the ham with the glaze every hour if possible to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Serve: Verify the internal temperature of the ham has reached 140°F using a meat thermometer. Once done, transfer the ham to a chopping board and let it rest for 10 minutes. Then slice it to serve.
- Thicken glaze: If the leftover glaze is too thin for your liking, remove any cloves and transfer the glaze to a small saucepan. Whisk together 2-3 teaspoons of cornstarch and 1-2 tablespoons of orange juice in a small bowl to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the glaze and bring it to a simmer on the stove, stirring frequently until the glaze thickens to your preferred consistency. Serve this thickened glaze over the sliced ham.
Notes
- Basting the ham regularly enhances flavor and moisture.
- Ensure the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F for safe consumption.
- Optional cloves add a warm, aromatic hint to the glaze.
- Using cornstarch slurry allows you to customize glaze thickness.
- This recipe works well with fully cooked, boneless hams around 5 pounds.
- Leftover glaze can be refrigerated and used as a sauce for ham sandwiches.
