As the holiday season approaches, the familiar warmth of family gatherings fills my heart with nostalgia. One dish that always steals the spotlight at our tables is the Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham Slices. With the sweet aroma of honey and brown sugar wafting through the kitchen, it instantly elevates any meal, transforming it into a celebratory feast.
This recipe was born out of my quest for an effortless yet impressive centerpiece for special occasions. Picture this: a beautifully cooked ham, tender and juicy, glistening under a rich, golden glaze. The best part? It’s made in a slow cooker, leaving you free to embrace the moment instead of being stuck in the kitchen. With simple ingredients like pineapple juice and warm spices, you’ll create a flavor experience that keeps everyone reaching for seconds.
Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or just craving something comforting, let me show you how to make this delightful dish that promises both ease and mouthwatering taste. Trust me; your loved ones will be asking for your secrets long after the meal is over!
Why is Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham Slices a Must-Try?
Tender texture: The slow cooking method ensures each slice is melt-in-your-mouth juicy.
Irresistible aroma: Your kitchen will fill with the sweet, tempting scent of honey and spices as it cooks.
Easy preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it!
Versatile dish: Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or a comforting family dinner.
Crowd pleaser: Even the pickiest eaters will be drawn to its delicious glaze and flavor.
Make your life easier and discover how to prepare this delightful dish that will impress your guests!
Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham Slices Ingredients
Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham Slices recipe is sure to become a favorite. Let’s gather the ingredients to create your delicious centerpiece!
For the Ham
• 3 pounds fully cooked boneless ham – Choose unsliced or spiral-cut for maximum flavor retention.
For the Honey Glaze
• ½ cup honey – This will add that sweet touch to balance the savory ham.
• ½ cup packed brown sugar – Enhances the caramelization and richness of the glaze.
• ¼ cup pineapple juice – Introduces a delightful tang and complexity to the flavor.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and helps create a glossy glaze.
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard – Provides a subtle kick that complements the sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar – Balances the sweetness with a hint of acidity.
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – Infuses warmth and depth into the glaze.
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves – Adds a fragrant spiciness that elevates the flavor profile.
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – Gives a gentle spiciness to round out the sweetness.
For the Thickening Sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – Used to thicken the delicious cooking juices for a luscious finish.
• 2 tablespoons cold water – Helps dissolve the cornstarch before thickening the sauce.
Gather these ingredients, and let the slow cooker work its magic on your ham slices!
How to Make Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham Slices
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Grease the slow cooker: Lightly coat the inside of a 5–6 quart oval slow cooker with cooking spray or a bit of butter, ensuring the ham won’t stick during cooking.
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Place the ham: Gently set the fully cooked ham in the crockpot with the cut side facing down. If you have a spiral-cut ham, keep the slices together to maintain moisture throughout the cooking process.
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Combine the glaze: In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, mix honey, brown sugar, pineapple juice, melted butter, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper. Stir for 2–3 minutes until the sugar is fully dissolved.
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Pour the glaze: Drizzle approximately three-quarters of the warm honey glaze evenly over the ham, letting some seep between the slices. Be sure to save the remaining glaze for later.
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Cover and cook: Secure the lid and set your slow cooker to LOW for 3–4 hours or HIGH for 1½–2½ hours. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C) for packaged USDA-inspected ham or 165°F (74°C) otherwise.
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Spoon the juices: About halfway through cooking, use a spoon to drizzle warm juices from the bottom of the crockpot over the ham, keeping it moist and flavorful.
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Prepare the thickening sauce: Carefully transfer 1 cup of the cooking juices to a small saucepan. Mix cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water, whisk it together, then stir into the juices. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens into a glossy sauce.
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Slice and heat: If your ham isn’t already sliced, cut it into thick pieces and return them to the crockpot. Pour the thickened glaze and reserved glaze over the slices. Cover and heat for an additional 5–10 minutes.
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Serve: Just before serving, spoon the rich honey glaze generously over the tender ham slices for an inviting finish.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for a touch of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham Slices
Fridge: Store leftover Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham Slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the ham moist and flavorful for your future meals.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, preserving the delightful sweetness of the glaze.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the ham, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven or a microwave. To maintain juiciness, cover with a damp paper towel while microwaving.
Glaze Storage: If you have leftover glaze, store it separately in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat gently before drizzling over your sliced ham for extra flavor.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham Slices?
Imagine a festive table filled with vibrant flavors that perfectly complement the succulent, sweet ham.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery, velvety texture of these potatoes balances the sweetness of the ham. It’s comfort food at its finest!
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Roasted Brussel Sprouts: Their nutty, slightly bitter flavor adds a delightful contrast to the rich ham. Toss with balsamic glaze for an extra zing!
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Honey Glazed Carrots: These tender, sweet veggies echo the honey notes in the ham, creating a harmonious and colorful plate that sings of spring.
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Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty bread with a hint of garlic is perfect for soaking up the luscious glaze. It not only brings texture but also enhances the overall meal.
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Coleslaw: This crunchy side adds a refreshing crunch against the juicy ham, while its creamy dressing subtly cools the palate.
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Apple Cider: Sipping on this spiced drink brings out the fruity notes in the glaze, making it an ideal pairing for holiday dinners.
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Pineapple Upside Down Cake: Finish on a sweet note with a classic dessert that mirrors the tropical charm of the dish. The caramelized pineapple makes it a match made in heaven!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham Slices ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious moments on busy days! You can mix the honey glaze (honey, brown sugar, pineapple juice, and spices) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days in advance, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, if your ham is not yet sliced, you can place it in the slow cooker with the glaze ready to go and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When it’s time to cook, simply let the ham sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before turning on the slow cooker. This method keeps your dish just as delicious and allows you to enjoy more time with your loved ones!
Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham Slices Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor this recipe to suit your taste buds with these delicious variations!
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Pineapple Tidbits: Add canned pineapple chunks to the slow cooker for an extra burst of tropical flavor and juicy sweetness. This addition will create a delightful contrast with the savory ham.
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Maple Syrup Swap: Use maple syrup in place of honey for a rich, earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the ham. You’ll notice a wonderful complexity in flavor that elevates each bite.
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Spicy Kick: Stir in a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the glaze for a hint of heat. This spicy twist adds a thrilling balance to the sweetness, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice.
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the glaze for a fragrant herbal note. Their aromatic qualities will create a beautiful depth of flavor that complements the dish wonderfully.
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Bourbon Glaze: For a sophisticated touch, mix in a couple of tablespoons of bourbon to the glaze. The subtle smokiness will elevate the ham into a gourmet experience that’s sure to impress.
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Citrus Zest: Incorporate the zest of an orange or lemon into the glaze for a fresh zing. The bright citrus notes will enhance the flavor and create a lovely aroma in your kitchen.
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Brown Sugar Variation: For a caramel-like depth, substitute dark brown sugar for the regular brown sugar. This will add a deeper richness to the glaze, making it even more irresistible.
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Apple Cider Twist: Swap out the pineapple juice for apple cider to give the glaze a lovely autumn flavor. This warm, fruity undertone will perfectly complement the savory ham, creating a comforting dish for any occasion.
Experimenting with these twists will make every meal feel special, ensuring that your Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham Slices are uniquely yours!
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham Slices
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Quality Ham: Choose a good quality boneless ham for the best flavor and tender texture. Avoid overcooking by monitoring the internal temperature closely.
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Spice it Up: Don’t hesitate to experiment with additional spices or herbs like thyme or rosemary in the glaze for a unique twist.
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Thickened Sauce: Ensure the cornstarch is fully mixed with cold water before adding it to the juices. This prevents clumping and gives a smooth finish to your thickened sauce.
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Glaze Generously: Reserve some glaze until the end to create a tantalizing layer of sweetness just before serving. This enhances presentation and flavor.
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Resting Time: Allow the ham to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps each slice succulent.
Embrace these tips for perfect Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham Slices that will have your family and friends raving long after the last bite!
Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham Slices Recipe FAQs
What type of ham should I use for Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham Slices?
Absolutely! I recommend choosing a fully cooked boneless ham, preferably unsliced or spiral-cut, for the best flavor and moisture retention. Look for one that feels firm but not overly hard, without any dark spots, indicating freshness.
How should I store leftover Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham Slices?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This method helps keep the ham moist and flavorful. Reheat it gently in the oven or microwave, covered, to help retain its juiciness.
Can I freeze Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham Slices?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This will keep them fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight, and reheat as desired.
What if my ham isn’t heating through during cooking?
No worries! If you find your ham isn’t reaching the desired temperature, ensure your slow cooker is set to the correct setting (LOW for 3–4 hours or HIGH for 1½–2½ hours). If it’s still not warm enough, increase the cooking time in 30-minute increments, and check the internal temperature often for safety.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! If you’re cooking for guests, be mindful that the recipe contains honey and mustard, which may not be suitable for individuals with allergies or dietary restrictions. If someone has a honey allergy, consider using maple syrup or agave as an alternative sweetener. Always check ingredient labels for possible allergens.
How can I make the glaze thicker?
To achieve a thicker glaze for your Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham Slices, ensure you mix the cornstarch thoroughly with cold water before adding it to the cooking juices. This helps prevent clumping. After whisking it in, simmer the mixture for 2–3 minutes until it reaches a glossy consistency. If it’s still too thin, you can add a bit more cornstarch mixed with water and simmer again.
Perfectly Tender Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham Slices Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Grease the slow cooker: Lightly coat the inside of a 5–6 quart oval slow cooker with cooking spray or a bit of butter.
- Place the ham: Gently set the fully cooked ham in the crockpot with the cut side facing down.
- Combine the glaze: In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, mix honey, brown sugar, pineapple juice, melted butter, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper. Stir for 2–3 minutes until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Pour the glaze: Drizzle approximately three-quarters of the warm honey glaze evenly over the ham.
- Cover and cook: Secure the lid and set your slow cooker to LOW for 3–4 hours or HIGH for 1½–2½ hours.
- Spoon the juices: About halfway through cooking, drizzle warm juices from the bottom of the crockpot over the ham.
- Prepare the thickening sauce: Transfer 1 cup of the cooking juices to a small saucepan. Mix cornstarch with cold water, whisk it together, then stir into the juices.
- Slice and heat: Cut the ham into thick pieces and return them to the crockpot. Pour the thickened and reserved glaze over the slices.
- Serve: Spoon the rich honey glaze generously over the tender ham slices just before serving.
