When the holiday season rolls around, I often find myself dreaming of that perfect centerpiece that turns any gathering into a festive celebration. This Crockpot Cranberry Orange Christmas Ham is exactly that—a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors that envelop a succulent ham, transforming it into a show-stopping dish. The aroma of oranges wafting through the house is enough to bring everyone running to the kitchen, eager to enjoy a hearty slice.
One memorable holiday, a friend introduced me to the magic of a slow cooker, and I’ve never looked back. The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its deliciousness, but in the ease of preparation. With minimal hands-on time, you can focus on hosting while the slow cooker does its magic, creating a mouthwatering glaze infused with cranberries and orange zest.
Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this ham provides a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that leaves everyone raving. Join me as we dive into this enchanting recipe that promises to make your holiday gatherings a slice above the rest!
Why is Crockpot Cranberry Orange Christmas Ham a Must-Try?
Easy Preparation: Just set it and forget it! This recipe requires minimal effort, allowing you more time to enjoy with loved ones.
Bursting with Flavor: The sweet and tangy glaze elevates the ham, creating a dish bursting with bright citrus notes and rich cranberry goodness.
Versatile for Occasions: Perfect for festive gatherings or cozy family meals, this ham suits all occasions, making it a staple dish any time of year.
Impressive Presentation: Garnished with fresh cranberries and rosemary, this ham not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning on your holiday table.
Time-Saving: Cooking in a crockpot means you can prepare it in the morning and have a delicious meal ready when it’s time to eat. For more delightful slow cooker dishes, check out my collection of slow cooker recipes.
Crockpot Cranberry Orange Christmas Ham Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create this delightful centerpiece!
For the Ham
• 1 fully cooked spiral-sliced ham (5–6 lb) – A pre-cooked ham makes for easy preparation and luscious flavor.
For the Glaze
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries – The star ingredient that adds a sweet-tart punch to your dish.
• 1 cup orange juice – Freshly squeezed gives the best flavor; frozen works in a pinch!
• ½ cup packed brown sugar – This sweetener caramelizes beautifully, enhancing the ham’s taste.
• ⅓ cup honey – Adds a natural sweetness that balances the tartness of the cranberries.
• ¼ cup orange marmalade – Contributes depth and a hint of texture to the glaze.
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard – Offers a subtle tang that cuts through the sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Infuses warmth and depth into the overall flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves – A little goes a long way in adding a spicy note.
• 1 tablespoon orange zest – Fresh zest brightens the dish and enhances the citrus flavor.
For Garnish
• 1 large orange, sliced into ¼-inch rounds – Beautifully decorates the dish and adds extra citrus notes.
• ½ cup fresh cranberries – Scatter them for vibrant color and a touch of freshness.
• 3 thin orange slices – A delightful garnish that smells heavenly as it imparts citrus fragrance.
• 2 small fresh rosemary sprigs – Not only looks great but adds a fragrant herbal note.
• 1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest – A final touch of zest to elevate the presentation.
For the Thickener
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch – Helps to create a luscious, glossy glaze for the ham.
• 2 tablespoons cold water – Mix with cornstarch to activate its thickening properties.
With these ingredients gathered, you’re well on your way to impressing everyone with your delicious Crockpot Cranberry Orange Christmas Ham!
How to Make Crockpot Cranberry Orange Christmas Ham
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Grease the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the ceramic insert of a 7–8-quart oval slow cooker to ensure your ham doesn’t stick and cleans up easily later.
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Prepare the Ham: Remove any packaging and plastic bone guard from the ham. Place the ham cut-side down in the crockpot, allowing it to soak up all the delicious flavors.
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Make the Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together the orange juice, brown sugar, honey, orange marmalade, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, cloves, and 1 tablespoon of orange zest until well combined and smooth.
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Add Cranberries and Oranges: Scatter 1 cup of cranberries around the ham and tuck several orange slices along the sides. Slowly pour the prepared glaze over the ham, bathing it in all the goodness.
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Cook the Ham: Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the ham is heated through to 140°F (60°C), making sure it’s completely warmed and delicious.
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Baste Frequently: Spoon some of the warm cranberry-orange liquid over the ham once or twice during cooking to enhance its flavor and keep it moist.
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Thicken the Sauce: Transfer 1½ cups of the cooking juices to a small saucepan. Mix cornstarch with cold water and whisk it into the juices. Simmer on the stovetop for 3–5 minutes until the mixture is glossy and slightly thickened.
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Glaze the Ham: Spoon the thickened glaze over the ham. For a caramelized surface, transfer the ham to an oven-safe roasting pan and broil for 2–4 minutes, then return it to the crockpot for extra warmth.
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Garnish Stylishly: Arrange the remaining ½ cup of cranberries, 3 orange slices, 2 rosemary sprigs, and 1 teaspoon of orange zest over and around the ham. Serve warm with additional glaze for that fancy touch.
Optional: For extra flavor, serve with a side of roasted vegetables.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Cranberry Orange Christmas Ham
Fridge: Store any leftover ham in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep it flavorful and moist.
Freezer: Freeze the ham tightly wrapped in aluminum foil or plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through for tender, juicy slices. Drizzle with leftover glaze for extra flavor!
Leftover Use: Incorporate ham into soups, salads, or sandwiches to keep meals exciting and minimize food waste.
What to Serve with Crockpot Cranberry Orange Christmas Ham?
Create the perfect meal around a centerpiece that delights the senses and warms the heart.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture and rustic flavor complement the sweet, tangy notes of the ham beautifully. There’s something about a scoop of buttery mash that adds comfort to every holiday plate.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness enhances your ham, while the vibrant color brings cheer to the table. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs to elevate their presentation!
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Cranberry Walnut Salad: This refreshing salad incorporates crunchy walnuts and tart cranberries that mirror the flavors of the ham, providing a vibrant contrast to its richness. A tangy vinaigrette ties all the elements together perfectly.
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Herb Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The earthiness of Brussels sprouts is a delightful match for the citrus notes of the ham. Tossed with olive oil and fresh herbs, these roasted sprouts become a savory side that everyone will love.
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Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the glaze, ensuring each bite is full of flavor. Top with pecans for an extra crunch and a hint of nostalgia!
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Sparkling Cider: A refreshing drink option that complements the sweet and tangy elements of your meal, while keeping the atmosphere festive and lighthearted.
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Chocolate Orange Cake: For dessert, this combination echoes the flavors in your main dish, ensuring a cohesive meal that leaves everyone satisfied. Each slice is a celebration of both chocolate and citrus.
Crockpot Cranberry Orange Christmas Ham Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe, adding your personal touch to elevate the flavors even more!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute regular Dijon mustard with a gluten-free variety to keep this recipe safe for gluten-sensitive guests.
- Spicy Kick: Add ½ to 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a delightful heat that enhances the sweet and tangy notes.
- Maple Sweetener: Swap honey for maple syrup for a different layer of sweetness, offering a uniquely delicious twist.
- Fruit Medley: Toss in diced apples or pears along with the cranberries for a hearty, sweet addition that balances the glaze perfectly.
- Smoky Flavor: Add 1-2 teaspoons of smoked paprika to the glaze for an unexpected smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with ham.
- Herb Infusion: Substitute rosemary with thyme or sage for a fresh herbaceous twist that complements the citrus beautifully.
- Citrus Variety: Mix in some lemon juice or grapefruit juice to the glaze for an intriguing twist that brightens up the familiar flavors.
- Vegan Adaptation: Use a plant-based ham substitute with the same glaze for a festive dish that all can enjoy at your holiday table.
Each variation brings its charm, inviting you to explore and personalize this beloved dish in ways that reflect your family’s tastes and traditions!
Make Ahead Options
These Crockpot Cranberry Orange Christmas Ham preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive chaos! You can prepare the glaze up to 24 hours in advance by mixing together the orange juice, brown sugar, honey, orange marmalade, Dijon mustard, and spices; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can also cut the orange slices and prep the cranberries ahead of time, keeping them chilled until you’re ready to assemble. When it’s time to serve, just place the ham in the slow cooker, pour over the chilled glaze, and follow the cooking instructions. This way, your delicious ham will be just as flavorful and ready to impress your guests with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Crockpot Cranberry Orange Christmas Ham
Perfect Timing: Ensure your ham reaches 140°F (60°C) for optimal flavor and safety. Overcooking can dry it out, so check the temperature early.
Homemade Glaze: For a richer flavor, let your glaze sit for a few minutes to meld the flavors before pouring it over the ham. This makes your Crockpot Cranberry Orange Christmas Ham even more delectable!
Even Cooking: Make sure to place the ham cut-side down to help it absorb all the lovely glaze and flavors while cooking.
Thicker Glaze: If you prefer a thicker glaze, let it simmer a bit longer on the stovetop once you add the cornstarch. Adjust to your desired consistency.
Leftover Magic: Don’t waste any ham leftovers! Use them in sandwiches or salads for delightful meals the next day.
Crockpot Cranberry Orange Christmas Ham Recipe FAQs
What type of ham should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! You want to use a fully cooked spiral-sliced ham weighing between 5 and 6 pounds. This type of ham is easier to slice and allows for even flavor distribution from the glaze. A spiral-sliced ham also makes serving a breeze, which is perfect for entertaining family and friends.
How should I store leftover ham?
Very! After your delicious meal, be sure to store any leftover ham in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you find yourself with more ham than you can eat, you can wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze the ham after cooking?
Yes! To freeze your Crockpot Cranberry Orange Christmas Ham, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, thaw the ham in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
How do I reheat the ham without drying it out?
Great question! To reheat, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Place the ham in a baking dish and cover it with foil to keep it moist. Warm it in the oven for about 15-20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Drizzle any remaining glaze over the ham before serving for added moisture and flavor.
Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions, it’s important to note that this recipe includes honey and brown sugar, which may not be suitable for those on strict sugar-reduced diets. Additionally, ensure that your ham is free from allergens, including any potential preservatives and gluten, depending on individual sensitivities. If you’re serving pets, avoid giving them glazed ham as the sugars are not healthy for them.
Crockpot Cranberry Orange Christmas Ham That Steals the Show
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Grease the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the ceramic insert of a 7–8-quart oval slow cooker.
- Prepare the Ham: Remove any packaging and place the ham cut-side down in the crockpot.
- Make the Glaze: Whisk together orange juice, brown sugar, honey, orange marmalade, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, cloves, and 1 tablespoon of orange zest.
- Add Cranberries and Oranges: Scatter 1 cup of cranberries around the ham and pour the glaze over it.
- Cook the Ham: Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours until heated through.
- Baste Frequently: Spoon some of the warm glaze over the ham once or twice during cooking.
- Thicken the Sauce: Transfer 1½ cups of cooking juices to a saucepan. Mix cornstarch with cold water and whisk into the juices.
- Glaze the Ham: Spoon the thickened glaze over the ham and optionally broil for a caramelized finish.
- Garnish Stylishly: Arrange remaining ingredients over and around the ham before serving.
