Crockpot Ham Recipe with Maple Brown Sugar Glaze recipe

Honestly, if you told me a few years ago that my go-to holiday ham would be cooked in a crockpot, I probably would have scoffed. Baked ham, with its crispy edges and oven-roasted aroma, felt like the only real way to do it. But then life got busier, oven space became more precious during holiday meal prep, and I stumbled upon this Crockpot Ham Recipe with Maple Brown Sugar Glaze. Let me tell you, it was a revelation! The ham comes out unbelievably moist and tender, practically falling apart with a fork. And that glaze? Oh my goodness, that glaze! The combination of sweet maple syrup and rich brown sugar creates a sticky, caramelized coating that is simply irresistible. My family devours this ham every single time, and it’s become a requested centerpiece for Easter, Christmas, and even just a special Sunday dinner. If you’re looking for a foolproof, flavor-packed, and incredibly easy way to cook a ham, look no further. This crockpot recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen.

The Magic of Crockpot Ham with Maple Brown Sugar Glaze

There’s something undeniably comforting about a glazed ham. It’s a classic centerpiece that speaks of celebration and abundance, and it’s surprisingly versatile, lending itself to both formal holiday feasts and casual family gatherings. But let’s be honest, baking a large ham can be a bit intimidating. It takes up precious oven space, requires constant monitoring to prevent drying out, and can sometimes feel like a bit of a production.

Enter the slow cooker – the unsung hero of easy, flavorful meals. Cooking your ham in a crockpot is not only incredibly convenient, but it also results in a ham that is unbelievably moist and tender. The gentle, consistent heat of the slow cooker allows the ham to slowly baste in its own juices, locking in moisture and creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

And then there’s the glaze. This Maple Brown Sugar Glaze is the perfect complement to the savory ham. The sweetness of the maple syrup and brown sugar perfectly balances the saltiness of the ham, while a touch of Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang and depth of flavor. As the ham cooks, the glaze melts and caramelizes, creating a beautiful, glossy coating that is both visually stunning and utterly delicious.

Why This Crockpot Ham Recipe is a Game Changer

This isn’t just any crockpot ham recipe. This is the recipe that will change your mind about how ham should be cooked. Here’s why it’s a game changer:

• Effortless and Hands-Off: Seriously, the prep work is minimal. You simply whisk together the glaze ingredients, pour it over the ham in the crockpot, and let the slow cooker do its magic. No constant basting, no worrying about temperature fluctuations.
• Unbelievably Moist and Tender: Say goodbye to dry, chewy ham! The slow cooking process ensures that the ham remains incredibly moist and tender, practically falling apart with a fork. You’ll be amazed at the difference.
• Flavor Explosion: The Maple Brown Sugar Glaze is the star of the show. It infuses the ham with a rich, sweet, and slightly smoky flavor that is simply addictive. The Dijon mustard adds a subtle complexity that elevates the glaze to another level.
• Perfect for Holidays and Gatherings: Free up your oven for side dishes! Cooking your ham in the crockpot frees up valuable oven space, making holiday meal prep so much easier and less stressful. Plus, the “set it and forget it” nature of this recipe means you can focus on other aspects of your gathering.
• Impressive Presentation: The caramelized glaze creates a beautiful, glossy finish that makes this ham look like it came straight out of a gourmet kitchen. Your guests will be wowed by both the taste and the presentation.
• Beginner-Friendly: This recipe is incredibly forgiving and easy to follow, even for novice cooks. If you can whisk ingredients together and turn on a crockpot, you can make this ham!

The Star Ingredients for Your Crockpot Ham Masterpiece

Let’s break down the ingredients you’ll need to create this incredible Crockpot Ham with Maple Brown Sugar Glaze. The ingredient list is simple, but each component plays a crucial role in the final flavor and texture of the ham.

Detailed Ingredient List

• Ham:
  • 3-5 pound Bone-In or Boneless Ham: You can use either a bone-in or boneless ham for this recipe. A bone-in ham will generally be more flavorful, but a boneless ham is easier to carve. Make sure to choose a ham that will fit comfortably in your crockpot. A pre-cooked, spiral-sliced ham works exceptionally well for this recipe as the glaze can penetrate between the slices.
• For the Maple Brown Sugar Glaze:
  • ½ cup Maple Syrup: Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor. Avoid pancake syrup, which is often corn syrup-based and lacks the rich, complex flavor of real maple syrup.
  • ½ cup Brown Sugar, Packed: Light or dark brown sugar will work. Dark brown sugar will provide a slightly richer, molasses-like flavor. Pack the brown sugar firmly when measuring to ensure you have the correct amount.
  • ¼ cup Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang and complexity to the glaze, balancing the sweetness and enhancing the savory flavor of the ham. Don’t skip this!
  • 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar: The vinegar adds a touch of acidity that helps to cut through the sweetness of the glaze and tenderize the ham slightly. White vinegar can be substituted if needed, but apple cider vinegar adds a slightly fruity note.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce: Worcestershire sauce adds a depth of umami flavor to the glaze, enhancing the savory notes and adding complexity.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of the glaze and the savory ham. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika can be used, but smoked paprika is highly recommended.
  • ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder: Garlic powder adds a savory base note to the glaze.
  • ¼ teaspoon Ground Cloves: Ground cloves add a warm, slightly spicy note that is classic in ham glazes. Use ground cloves sparingly, as they can be overpowering.
  • Optional: Pineapple Juice or Apple Juice (¼ cup): Adding a bit of juice can help to thin the glaze slightly and add extra moisture to the ham. Pineapple juice adds a tropical sweetness that complements the maple and brown sugar, while apple juice adds a more classic fruit note.

Step-by-Step Guide to Crockpot Ham Perfection

Ready to make the most delicious, easiest ham of your life? Follow these simple step-by-step instructions for crockpot ham perfection!

Easy-to-Follow Instructions

1. Prepare the Glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and ground cloves (and optional juice, if using). Whisk until the brown sugar is mostly dissolved and the glaze is smooth. This glaze smells absolutely divine already!
2. Prepare the Ham: If using a spiral-sliced ham, you don’t need to do anything special. If using a whole ham (not spiral-sliced), you can score the top of the ham in a diamond pattern with a sharp knife. This helps the glaze penetrate the ham and also looks beautiful when served. Tip: Scoring is optional, but it does enhance both flavor and presentation, especially with a non-spiral ham.
3. Place Ham in Crockpot: Place the ham in your crockpot. If your ham is very large and your crockpot is on the smaller side, you may need to trim a bit off the bottom of the ham to make it fit. You want the ham to sit relatively flat in the crockpot for even cooking. Tip: If you are using a bone-in ham, place it cut-side down in the crockpot for maximum moisture retention.
4. Pour Glaze Over Ham: Pour the maple brown sugar glaze evenly over the ham, making sure to coat it as much as possible. If using a spiral-sliced ham, gently separate the slices slightly to allow the glaze to seep in between. Tip: Reserve about ¼ cup of the glaze to brush over the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking for an extra glossy finish.
5. Slow Cook the Ham: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. Cooking time will vary depending on the size and type of ham and your specific crockpot. The ham is already cooked, so you are essentially just heating it through and infusing it with flavor. You want the internal temperature to reach 140°F (60°C). Tip: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham to ensure it is heated through. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone if using a bone-in ham.
6. Glaze and Finish (Optional but Recommended): During the last 30 minutes of cooking, you can brush the reserved glaze over the ham for an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful glossy finish. You can also increase the heat to high for the last 30 minutes to help caramelize the glaze further, if desired. Tip: For a truly caramelized glaze, you can broil the ham in the oven for a few minutes after crockpot cooking. Carefully transfer the ham to a baking sheet, brush with remaining glaze, and broil for 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. This step is optional but adds a wonderful crispy, caramelized crust.
7. Rest and Serve: Once the ham is cooked through and glazed to your liking, carefully remove it from the crockpot and place it on a cutting board. Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham. Tip: Don’t skip the resting time! It makes a big difference in the final texture of the ham.
8. Carve and Enjoy! Carve the ham and serve hot. The aroma alone will have everyone’s mouth watering!

Nutritional Information: Indulge Smartly

While this Crockpot Ham with Maple Brown Sugar Glaze is undeniably delicious and perfect for special occasions, it’s helpful to be mindful of the nutritional content, especially if you are watching your calorie intake. Keep in mind that nutritional information can vary depending on the specific type of ham you use and the exact ingredients and measurements.

Serving Size and Calories (Estimated)

• Serving Size: Approximately 4 ounces (113 grams) of cooked ham.
• Calories per Serving (Estimated): Around 350-450 calories per serving.

Approximate Nutritional Breakdown per Serving (Estimated):

• Calories: 350-450
• Protein: 25-30 grams
• Fat: 20-25 grams
• Saturated Fat: 8-10 grams
• Cholesterol: 80-100 mg
• Sodium: 800-1200 mg (varies greatly depending on the ham)
• Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
• Sugar: 15-20 grams

Important Notes:

• These are estimates only and can vary.
• The sodium content of ham is naturally high. Choose lower-sodium ham options if you are watching your sodium intake.
• This recipe contains added sugar from maple syrup and brown sugar. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
• Serving size is approximate and can be adjusted based on individual needs.

Preparation Time: Effortless Deliciousness

One of the best things about this Crockpot Ham recipe is how little hands-on time it requires. It’s perfect for busy cooks or anyone who wants to enjoy a delicious holiday meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Quick Prep, Slow Cooked Perfection

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes (mostly whisking the glaze!)
• Cook Time: 4-6 hours on low, or 2-3 hours on high (depending on crockpot and ham size)
• Total Time: Approximately 4 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 20 minutes (including resting time)

Active Time: The active cooking time is minimal – just the initial glaze preparation and placing the ham in the crockpot. The rest of the time is hands-off slow cooking, freeing you up to focus on other tasks or simply relax and enjoy the delicious aroma filling your home.

Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your Ham Dinner

This Crockpot Ham with Maple Brown Sugar Glaze is delicious on its own, but it truly shines when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to create a complete and memorable meal:

Perfect Pairings for Your Crockpot Ham

• Classic Holiday Sides:
  • Scalloped Potatoes: Creamy and cheesy scalloped potatoes are a classic pairing with ham.
  • Green Bean Casserole: A comforting and crowd-pleasing side dish.
  • Sweet Potato Casserole: The sweetness of sweet potatoes complements the savory ham and glaze beautifully.
  • Stuffing or Dressing: A must-have for any holiday ham dinner.
  • Dinner Rolls or Biscuits: For soaking up all that delicious glaze!
• Fresh and Lighter Sides:
  • Roasted Asparagus: A simple and healthy side dish that adds a touch of freshness.
  • Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Roasted Brussels sprouts with a balsamic glaze offer a nice contrast to the sweetness of the ham glaze.
  • Salad with Vinaigrette: A light and refreshing salad to balance the richness of the ham.
  • Fruit Salad: A bright and colorful fruit salad provides a sweet and tangy counterpoint.
• Comfort Food Sides:
  • Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a welcome addition to any ham dinner.
  • Mac and Cheese: A cheesy and comforting side dish that kids and adults will love.
  • Cornbread: A slightly sweet and crumbly cornbread is a perfect accompaniment to ham.
• Serving the Ham:
  • Sliced Ham: Carve the ham into slices and arrange them on a platter.
  • Pulled Ham: For a more casual presentation, you can shred the ham and serve it pulled pork style. This is great for sandwiches or sliders.
  • Ham Sandwiches: Leftover ham makes fantastic sandwiches! Use crusty rolls, croissants, or even slider buns.
  • Ham and Bean Soup: Use leftover ham to make a hearty and flavorful ham and bean soup.

Expert Tips for the Best Crockpot Ham Ever

Want to ensure your Crockpot Ham with Maple Brown Sugar Glaze is absolutely perfect? Here are five expert tips to take your ham game to the next level:

Top 5 Tips for Crockpot Ham Success

1. Choose the Right Ham: For the best flavor and moisture, opt for a bone-in ham. Spiral-sliced hams are convenient and allow the glaze to penetrate beautifully. Avoid “water-added” hams if possible, as they can be less flavorful. Select a ham that will comfortably fit in your crockpot without being too crowded.
2. Don’t Overcook: Since ham is already cooked, you are primarily heating it through and infusing it with flavor. Overcooking can dry out the ham, even in a crockpot. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) and remove it promptly once it reaches temperature. Err on the side of slightly undercooking rather than overcooking.
3. Baste with Pan Juices (Optional but Recommended): While the crockpot keeps the ham moist, basting with the pan juices during cooking can further enhance flavor and moisture. Particularly if you are not using a spiral-sliced ham, spooning the glaze and juices over the top of the ham every couple of hours can help to keep it moist and flavorful.
4. Customize the Glaze: Feel free to adjust the glaze to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, increase the maple syrup or brown sugar. For a spicier glaze, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. You can also experiment with different spices like cinnamon, ginger, or allspice. Consider adding a splash of bourbon or rum for a richer, more complex flavor.
5. Rest the Ham Before Carving: As with any roasted meat, resting the ham after cooking is crucial for tender and juicy results. Allow the ham to rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender ham. Tent it loosely with foil while it rests to keep it warm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Crockpot Ham

Got questions about making crockpot ham? You’re not alone! Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you achieve crockpot ham success:

Your Crockpot Ham Questions Answered

Q1: Can I use a frozen ham in the crockpot?

A: No, it is not recommended to cook a frozen ham in the crockpot. For food safety reasons, ham should be thawed completely before cooking in the crockpot. Thawing a large ham in the refrigerator can take several days, so plan ahead.

Q2: How do I prevent my ham from drying out in the crockpot?

A: Crockpots are excellent for keeping ham moist, but here are a few tips to ensure it stays juicy: Don’t overcook the ham. Cook on low for a longer period rather than high for a shorter period. Ensure there is enough liquid in the crockpot (from the glaze and ham juices). Use a bone-in ham, which tends to be more moist. Basting with pan juices during cooking can also help.

Q3: My glaze is too thin. How can I thicken it?

A: If your glaze is too thin after cooking, you can thicken it by transferring it to a saucepan and simmering it over medium heat for a few minutes until it reduces and thickens. Be careful not to burn it. Alternatively, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to the glaze in the saucepan and simmer until thickened.

Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can definitely make this recipe ahead of time! Cook the ham in the crockpot as directed, then let it cool completely. Store the ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the ham in the oven or microwave until heated through. You can also reheat it in the crockpot on low, adding a little extra liquid if needed to prevent drying out.

Q5: What size crockpot should I use for this recipe?

A: A 6-quart or larger crockpot is recommended for a 3-5 pound ham. You want to ensure the ham fits comfortably in the crockpot without being too crowded. If your crockpot is smaller, you may need to use a smaller ham or cut the ham in half to fit.

Conclusion: Your Go-To Crockpot Ham Recipe Awaits

So there you have it – the easiest, most flavorful, and undeniably impressive Crockpot Ham with Maple Brown Sugar Glaze recipe you’ll ever need. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, planning a special family dinner, or simply craving a delicious and stress-free meal, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. The combination of tender, juicy ham and that sweet and savory maple brown sugar glaze is simply irresistible. Say goodbye to dry, oven-baked hams and hello to crockpot perfection! Give this recipe a try, and I promise, it will become your new go-to for ham, year after year. Happy cooking and enjoy every delicious bite!

Print