Looking to impress your guests with a show-stopping centerpiece for your holiday feast? Look no further than this mouthwatering Crock Pot Holiday Ham! Tender, juicy, and infused with a delightful glaze of brown sugar, honey, and Dijon mustard, this recipe not only elevates your holiday table but also allows you to spend more time with loved ones instead of being stuck in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create a dish that’s as festive as it is delicious. Ready to make your holidays unforgettable? Dive into our easy-to-follow recipe and discover the secrets to a perfectly cooked ham that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked ham (5-7 lbs)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Remove the ham from its packaging and pat dry with paper towels. If the ham has a thick layer of fat, score the surface in a diamond pattern using a sharp knife, creating shallow 1/2-inch deep cuts.
- Spray the inside of the slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Carefully place the ham into the crock pot, positioning it with the fat side facing up to help keep the meat moist during cooking.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until a smooth, consistent glaze is formed.
- Pour the prepared glaze evenly over the ham, making sure to cover the entire surface and allowing the mixture to seep into the scored cuts.
- Cover the crock pot with its lid and set the temperature to low heat setting.
- Cook the ham for 5-6 hours, basting with the accumulated glaze every 1-2 hours to enhance flavor and moisture.
- Check the internal temperature of the ham using a meat thermometer. It should reach at least 140°F (60°C) to ensure it is thoroughly heated.
- Once done, carefully remove the ham from the crock pot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
- Transfer to a serving platter, spoon additional glaze over the top, and serve warm.
Tips
- Choose the Right Ham: Opt for a fully cooked ham weighing between 5-7 lbs for the best results. This size is perfect for serving 8 guests and ensures even cooking.
- Prep the Ham: Don’t skip the scoring! Scoring the fat in a diamond pattern not only enhances the presentation but also allows the glaze to penetrate deeper, adding flavor to every bite.
- Use Non-Stick Spray: Spraying the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray will make cleanup a breeze and prevent the ham from sticking to the sides.
- Baste for Extra Flavor: Remember to baste the ham with the accumulated glaze every 1-2 hours. This step is crucial for keeping the meat moist and enhancing the flavor profile.
- Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 140°F (60°C). This guarantees that your ham is heated through and safe to eat.
- Let it Rest: After removing the ham from the crock pot, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful ham.
- Serve with Extra Glaze: Don’t forget to spoon additional glaze over the sliced ham on the serving platter for an extra touch of sweetness and to impress your guests!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 90mg
