How To Cook Ham In Slow Cooker With Glaze [GUIDE]

Cooking a ham in a slow cooker is one of those culinary conveniences that transforms a simple meal into a succulent, flavor-packed experience. Unlike traditional oven baking, slow cooking allows the meat to gently absorb moisture and the rich flavors of a glaze, resulting in a tender, juicy ham that practically falls apart at the touch of a fork. This method is particularly advantageous for holidays, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want to serve a meal that feels indulgent yet effortless. Beyond convenience, the slow cooker brings out nuanced flavors in the glaze-whether it’s a classic brown sugar and mustard mix, a maple-honey infusion, or a spiced fruit glaze-allowing the sweet, tangy, and savory notes to penetrate every slice.

How Long To Cook Ham In Slow Cooker With Glaze

The cooking time for ham in a slow cooker depends largely on the size and whether the ham is pre-cooked or raw. For a fully cooked ham, which is most commonly used for slow cooking, the general rule is:

• Small hams (2-4 pounds): 2-3 hours on high, 4-6 hours on low
• Medium hams (5-7 pounds): 3-4 hours on high, 6-8 hours on low
• Large hams (8-10 pounds): 4-5 hours on high, 8-10 hours on low

For raw hams, you’ll need to extend the low setting to ensure the internal temperature reaches a safe level for consumption (around 145°F, with a 3-minute rest). The beauty of slow cooking is that it is forgiving; the low, steady heat ensures the ham remains juicy without drying out, while the glaze melds beautifully into the meat.

How To Tell If It Is Done

The most reliable method to determine doneness is using an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding bone contact:

• Fully cooked ham: 140°F internally
• Raw ham: 145°F internally, followed by a 3-minute rest

Visually, a properly cooked glazed ham will have caramelized edges, a shiny and sticky surface from the glaze, and tender meat that yields easily to a fork. If the glaze begins to burn or the ham appears dry at the edges, the temperature may be too high or cooking time too long.

Ingredients Needed

To achieve a perfectly glazed slow cooker ham, you will need:

• Ham: 4-8 pounds, bone-in or boneless, pre-cooked or raw
• Glaze Base: Options include brown sugar, honey, maple syrup, or molasses
• Acidic Component: Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, or orange juice to balance sweetness
• Spices and Aromatics: Cloves, cinnamon, garlic powder, black pepper, or ginger
• Liquid for Slow Cooker: Water, apple juice, or pineapple juice to keep the ham moist
• Optional: Pineapple slices, maraschino cherries, or fresh herbs for presentation and flavor

These ingredients can be adjusted depending on taste preference-sweeter, spicier, or more tangy-and each choice influences the depth of flavor absorbed during slow cooking.

How To Cook Ham In Slow Cooker With Glaze

1. Prepare the Ham: Remove packaging, rinse if desired, and pat dry. Score the surface in a crisscross pattern to allow the glaze to penetrate.
2. Mix the Glaze: In a bowl, combine your chosen sweetener, mustard or vinegar, and spices until smooth.
3. Add Liquid to Slow Cooker: Pour ½-1 cup of liquid into the slow cooker to maintain moisture and prevent burning.
4. Place Ham in Slow Cooker: Position the ham cut-side down if boneless, or fat-side up if bone-in.
5. Brush with Glaze: Apply a generous layer of glaze over the ham’s surface. Some prefer to glaze halfway through cooking and then again near the end for a more intense flavor.
6. Cover and Cook: Set on low for maximum tenderness, or high for faster cooking. Avoid lifting the lid frequently, as this releases heat and prolongs cooking time.
7. Finish: Optional-if you desire a caramelized crust, transfer the ham to a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes after slow cooking.

When Things Go Wrong

Even slow cooking isn’t completely fail-proof. Common issues include:

• Ham is too dry: Likely due to too little liquid or overcooking. Try adding more juice or water during cooking next time.
• Glaze burns: Typically happens on high heat or near the edges where liquid evaporates. Brush glaze toward the end or use foil over exposed areas.
• Ham undercooked: Rare for pre-cooked ham, but for raw ham, ensure internal temperature reaches 145°F.

Expert Tips

• Use the bone for flavor: Bone-in hams release extra gelatin and natural flavor, enriching the slow cooker liquid.
• Don’t skimp on glaze: Apply in layers to build flavor depth.
• Add fruits for natural sweetness: Pineapple or apple slices enhance both taste and aroma.
• Reserve glaze for serving: Warm extra glaze to drizzle over slices when plating for a restaurant-quality finish.
• Rotate ham occasionally: For even cooking and consistent glaze coverage.

Can I Do This Without A Slow Cooker?

Absolutely. If a slow cooker isn’t available, a low-temperature oven (around 275-300°F) can mimic the effect. Place ham in a roasting pan with ½ cup of liquid, cover with foil, and roast until internal temperature reaches the safe mark. Glaze can be applied during the last 30-45 minutes. While it won’t have the same ’set-and-forget’ convenience, the flavor and tenderness are still excellent.

Reheating Leftovers In Slow Cooker

Leftover ham is incredibly forgiving in a slow cooker. Slice or cube, place in the slow cooker with a splash of water, juice, or leftover glaze, and heat on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour. This keeps it moist, tender, and flavorful-far superior to microwave reheating, which can dry it out.

FAQs

What Type Of Ham Is Best For Cooking In A Slow Cooker With Glaze?

Bone-in, fully cooked hams are ideal for slow cooking, as they retain moisture and absorb the glaze well. Spiral-cut hams are also convenient, but make sure they fit in your slow cooker.

Do I Need To Add Liquid To The Slow Cooker When Cooking Ham?

Yes, adding a small amount of liquid such as water, broth, or juice helps maintain moisture, prevents the ham from drying out, and aids in distributing the glaze evenly.

How Do I Make A Glaze For Slow Cooker Ham?

Glazes typically combine sweet and savory ingredients like brown sugar, honey, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, fruit juices, or spices. Mix the ingredients and brush them over the ham before and during cooking for maximum flavor.

What Temperature And Cooking Time Should I Use In A Slow Cooker?

Cook the ham on low heat for 4-6 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours. The goal is to heat the ham thoroughly and allow the glaze to penetrate without drying out the meat.

Should I Cover The Ham While Cooking In A Slow Cooker?

Yes, keep the slow cooker lid on during cooking to retain heat and moisture. Removing the lid can extend cooking time and dry out the ham.

Can I Add Vegetables To The Slow Cooker With The Ham?

Absolutely. Root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions can be added around the ham. They will cook in the ham’s juices and glaze, absorbing flavor while providing a complete meal.

How Often Should I Baste The Ham With Glaze?

For best results, baste the ham every 60-90 minutes using a spoon or brush. This ensures the glaze caramelizes slightly and enhances the flavor throughout the cooking process.

How Do I Know When The Ham Is Fully Heated?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. A fully cooked ham should reach an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) when reheated in a slow cooker.

Can I Cook A Frozen Ham In The Slow Cooker With Glaze?

It is not recommended to cook ham from frozen in a slow cooker, as it may stay in the temperature danger zone too long, leading to uneven heating. Thaw the ham completely in the refrigerator before slow cooking.

Can I Prepare The Glaze In Advance?

Yes, you can prepare the glaze a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. This can save time and allow flavors to meld. Just bring it to room temperature before applying it to the ham.