The Ultimate Slow Cooker Maple Glazed Ham: Effortless, Juicy, and Flavorful
Imagine a holiday meal where the main course is not only incredibly delicious but also requires minimal effort from you. This Slow Cooker Fresh Ham with Maple Glaze recipe makes that dream a reality. It delivers a consistently tender, full-of-flavor, and juicy ham, slow-cooked to perfection in a delectable maple glaze marinade. Forget the stress of oven space and constant monitoring; this crockpot method simplifies your cooking process, allowing you to relax and enjoy your guests. This boneless ham is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will disappear quickly at your next dinner party or special occasion!
Why This Slow Cooker Ham Recipe is a Game-Changer
Hosting a dinner party, be it for Christmas, Easter, or any special gathering, should be about enjoying the company of your guests, not being chained to the kitchen. This slow cooker ham recipe with its irresistible maple glaze is specifically designed to free you from that burden. While ham is a quintessential holiday centerpiece, preparing it can often be intimidating. Our method, however, transforms it into a stress-free culinary delight.
The beauty of the slow cooker lies in its ability to gently braise the ham over several hours, ensuring it emerges incredibly tender and infused with flavor. The meat simply melts in your mouth, consistently juicy from edge to edge. Plus, utilizing a crockpot means you gain valuable oven or stove-top space – a significant advantage when preparing multiple dishes for a festive meal. This simple maple glaze requires just six core ingredients, combining to create a perfectly balanced sweet, savory, and aromatic profile with a hint of fresh herbs. It’s so delicious, you’ll wonder why you ever prepared ham any other way!
Looking for more hands-off meal ideas? Explore our extensive collection of slow cooker recipes for delicious options such as rotisserie-style slow cooker chicken, Coq au Vin Blanc, and Boeuf Bourguignon.
Understanding Your Ham: Fresh vs. Cured
While the recipe title mentions “fresh ham,” it’s important to clarify the type of ham typically used for a slow cooker maple glaze. “Fresh ham” refers to an uncured leg of pork, which would require much longer cooking times and a higher internal temperature (around 160°F or 71°C) for safe consumption, often with prior brining. However, for most holiday hams that are glazed and reheated, you’ll be using a cured ham, which is usually pre-cooked or partially cooked and often labeled as “fully cooked” or “cook before eating.”
This recipe is designed for a pre-cooked, cured ham, which only needs to be heated through to an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) and glazed to perfection. This makes it incredibly convenient and ideal for the slow cooker method. You can opt for a boneless ham for easier carving, or a bone-in ham if you prefer the additional flavor that the bone imparts to the cooking liquid.
Regardless of your choice, ensure the ham fits comfortably in your slow cooker with the lid fully closed. This is crucial for even cooking and moisture retention.
The Secret to Our Irresistible Maple Glaze: Ingredients Explained
The magic of this slow cooker ham truly lies in its simple yet incredibly flavorful maple glaze. Each of the six core ingredients plays a vital role in creating a harmonious balance of sweet, savory, tangy, and aromatic notes. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why it works:
- Maple Syrup: This isn’t just a sweetener; it’s the heart of the glaze, offering a complex, naturally light brown, and soft caramel flavor that distinguishes it from refined sugar. Choose pure maple syrup for the best results, as artificial syrups won’t provide the same depth of flavor.
- Brown Sugar: Complementing the maple syrup, brown sugar (especially dark brown sugar) adds another layer of rich, molasses-like sweetness and helps create a beautiful, caramelized crust on the ham’s exterior. Its slightly moist texture also contributes to the glaze’s adherence.
- Dijon Mustard: Don’t skip this! Dijon mustard provides a crucial tangy, sharp counterpoint to the sweetness of the maple syrup and brown sugar. It prevents the glaze from being cloyingly sweet and also acts as a subtle emulsifier, helping the glaze adhere evenly to the ham.
- Orange Zest: The finely grated zest from an orange introduces a bright, fresh, and slightly floral citrus note. This cuts through the richness of the ham and adds an aromatic lift to the overall flavor profile. It’s much more potent and fragrant than orange juice.
- Rosemary: Fresh rosemary is key here. Its distinctive bittersweet, piney, and earthy aroma pairs wonderfully with pork. Finely chopped, the rosemary needles release their essential oils, infusing the glaze and ham with a sophisticated, herbaceous touch that truly elevates the dish.
- Ground Black Pepper: A simple seasoning that adds a touch of warmth and subtle spice, enhancing the savory notes of the ham and balancing the sweetness of the glaze.
How to Prepare Your Slow Cooker Maple Glazed Ham: Step-by-Step
Preparing this succulent maple glazed ham is incredibly straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Follow these simple steps for a truly memorable meal. You can find a printable recipe with step-by-step instructions and precise measurements in the recipe card at the bottom of this blog post.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a medium bowl, combine the maple syrup, dark brown sugar, Dijon mustard, orange zest, finely chopped fresh rosemary, and ground black pepper. Whisk thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and the sugar begins to dissolve. This creates your rich and aromatic maple brown sugar glaze.
- Set Up Your Slow Cooker: For easier cleanup and to create a natural “boat” for the ham and glaze, line the bottom of your slow cooker pot with a large sheet of aluminum foil. Ensure the foil extends up the sides of the pot to contain the glaze.
- Place and Glaze the Ham: Carefully place your pre-cooked ham (boneless or bone-in) onto the aluminum foil in the slow cooker. Using a basting brush, generously coat the entire surface of the ham with a good portion of the prepared maple glaze. Then, pour the remaining glaze around the base of the ham.
- Slow Cook to Perfection: Secure the lid on your slow cooker. Set it to the ‘LOW’ setting and cook for approximately 2 to 3 hours for a smaller ham (1-2 pounds or 500-750 grams). For larger hams (7-8 pounds or 3-3.63 kg), it may take around 8 hours on low. The goal is to heat the ham through to an internal temperature of 140°F (approximately 60°C). Always check the internal temperature in the thickest part of the meat with a reliable meat thermometer.
- Finish and Serve: Once the ham reaches the desired temperature, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and transfer it to a serving platter. Brush with any remaining glaze from the crockpot for an extra shine and burst of flavor. For a beautiful presentation, sprinkle with additional fresh rosemary sprigs.
- Carve and Enjoy: Allow the ham to rest for a few minutes before carving into thin slices. Serve immediately and bask in the compliments!
Expert Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Ham
- Monitor Temperature Carefully: Cooking times can vary significantly based on your slow cooker model and the exact size/shape of your ham. Always rely on a meat thermometer to ensure your pre-cooked ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (approx. 60°C). For a 2-pound ham, 2 to 3 hours on low is a good starting point. A larger 7 to 8-pound ham might need closer to 8 hours on low.
- Ham Fit is Crucial: Before you begin, always check that your ham will fit comfortably inside your slow cooker, allowing the lid to close completely. A tight seal is essential for the slow cooker to maintain its temperature and cook effectively. If the lid doesn’t close, you risk uneven cooking and a dry ham.
- Achieve a Crispy Glaze (Optional): While the slow cooker provides a tender, moist ham, it won’t give you a crispy exterior. If you desire a slightly caramelized, crispier glaze, transfer the ham to a baking dish after slow cooking. Brush with extra glaze and broil for 5-10 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Basting for Extra Flavor: During the last hour of cooking, you can occasionally open the lid and baste the ham with the glaze accumulated at the bottom of the slow cooker. This helps to deepen the flavor and create a more even, glistening coating.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Resist the urge to cram too large a ham into a slow cooker that’s too small. This will lead to uneven cooking and a less desirable texture. Better to cut a larger ham to fit or use a second slow cooker.
What to Serve with Your Delicious Maple Glazed Ham
This sweet and savory main dish is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes, perfect for any festive table. Make it a complete, unforgettable meal with some of these delicious accompaniments:
- Potatoes: Classic choices like Hasselback Potatoes, creamy mashed potatoes, or roasted potatoes with rosemary and garlic are always a hit.
- Dinner Rolls: Warm, fluffy homemade rolls are perfect for soaking up any extra glaze or for making miniature ham sandwiches.
- Vegetables: Light and fresh green beans with herb breadcrumbs, Brussels Sprouts with orange glaze, or roasted carrots are excellent choices. Steamed asparagus or a simple garden salad also provide a nice contrast.
- Other Holiday Staples: Consider a flavorful wild rice pilaf, sweet potato casserole, or a fresh cranberry sauce to round out your holiday spread.
To make your tender ham even more festive and visually appealing, garnish with fresh herbs (like extra rosemary sprigs), or bright fruits such as pomegranate seeds and cranberries. These not only add color but also a burst of fresh flavor.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers, Plus Creative Uses
One of the best things about cooking a large ham is the delicious leftovers! Proper storage and reheating will ensure you can enjoy your maple glazed ham for days to come.
Storage Instructions:
- Cool Down: Always allow the cooked ham to cool down to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation and keeps the ham fresh.
- Refrigerator: Pack the leftover ham in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Tips:
- Oven: The best way to reheat ham is in the oven to retain moisture. Preheat your oven to 285°F (approx. 141°C). Place sliced or whole ham in a baking dish with a splash of water or broth, cover tightly with foil, and heat until the internal temperature reaches 120°F (approx. 49°C).
- Microwave: For small portions, microwave on medium power in short bursts, covered, until heated through. Be careful not to overcook, as it can dry out.
Creative Leftover Ham Recipes:
Don’t let any of that delicious ham go to waste! Transform your leftovers into exciting new meals:
- Sandwiches & Sliders: Thinly sliced ham is perfect on a sandwich or mini sliders with a dab of mustard or a slice of cheese.
- Soups & Salads: Dice the ham into small pieces and add it to hearty split pea soup, lentil soup, or a vibrant main course salad for a protein boost.
- Pizza Topping: Cubed ham makes an excellent pizza topping, especially when paired with pineapple (for the classic ham & pineapple combo!) or mushrooms.
- Breakfast & Brunch: Chop it up for omelets, scrambled eggs, quiches, or a delicious breakfast hash.
- Casseroles: Integrate ham into comforting casseroles like mac and cheese with ham, or a cheesy potato bake.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Maple Glazed Ham
Q: Can I use a bone-in ham for this recipe?
A: Yes, absolutely! A bone-in ham will work perfectly in the slow cooker. The bone can even add extra flavor to the cooking liquid. Just ensure it fits comfortably in your slow cooker with the lid securely closed. You may need to adjust cooking times slightly, as bone-in hams can sometimes take a little longer to heat through.
Q: How do I get a thicker, more caramelized glaze?
A: The slow cooker method generally yields a thinner glaze, as it’s a moist cooking environment. To achieve a thicker, more caramelized glaze, after the ham is fully cooked, carefully transfer it to a baking sheet. Brush generously with the leftover glaze from the crockpot (which will have thickened slightly). You can also reduce some of the slow cooker liquid on the stovetop to create a thicker sauce. Then, broil the ham for 5-10 minutes, watching it closely to prevent burning, until the glaze is bubbly and slightly browned.
Q: Can I make this ham ahead of time?
A: While the slow cooker makes it largely hands-off, you can certainly prepare parts of this recipe in advance. The glaze can be mixed up to 2-3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. The ham itself is best cooked fresh the day you plan to serve it to ensure optimal juiciness and flavor. However, if you have leftovers, they store and reheat well (see “Storing and Reheating Leftovers” section).
Q: What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
A: Dijon mustard offers a unique tang, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute it with a similar amount of brown mustard or even a teaspoon of dry mustard powder mixed with a little water. The flavor profile will be slightly different but still delicious.
Q: Can I adjust the sweetness of the glaze?
A: Yes, you can. If you prefer a less sweet ham, you can slightly reduce the amount of brown sugar or maple syrup. Conversely, for a sweeter glaze, you can add an extra tablespoon or two of either. Taste the glaze mixture before applying it to the ham and adjust to your preference.
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📖 Recipe Card
RECIPE CARD
Andréa
★★★★★ 5 of 61 votes
Pin Recipe
5 mins
3 hrs
3 hrs 5 mins
Dinner
American, Holiday
4 persons
820 kcal
Equipment
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Slow Cooker (Crockpot)
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Meat Thermometer
Prevent your screen from going dark
Ingredients
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2 pounds pre-cooked ham -
⅔ cup maple syrup -
½ cup dark brown sugar -
3 tablespoons Dijon mustard -
1 orange zest -
½ oz. fresh rosemary, needles removed and finely chopped. -
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
All my recipes are written both in Metric (gram / ml) and US Customary (cups / pounds). Here you can select which type of amount you would like to see.
Instructions
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Line the inside of the slow cooker with aluminum foil to create a container, making cleanup much easier.
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Carefully place the pre-cooked ham into the foil-lined slow cooker.
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In a bowl, mix together the maple syrup, dark brown sugar, Dijon mustard, orange zest, fresh rosemary, and ground black pepper until well combined. This is your flavorful maple glaze.
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Liberally brush the ham with a portion of the prepared maple glaze. Then, pour the remaining glaze over and around the meat in the slow cooker.
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Turn the slow cooker on to the ‘LOW’ heat setting. For a 2-pound ham, let it cook for approximately 2 hours. Then, check the internal temperature in the thickest part of the meat with a meat thermometer. A pre-cooked ham should reach 140 °F (approx. 60 °C). If it hasn’t reached this temperature, continue cooking for another 15-30 minutes and recheck. Larger hams will require longer cooking times (up to 8 hours for 8 pounds).
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Once the ham is heated through and cooked to perfection, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and transfer it to your serving platter.
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Brush the ham with any remaining glaze from the crockpot (it will have thickened slightly) for an extra shine and flavor boost. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs for presentation.
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Allow the ham to rest for a few minutes before carving into thin slices. Serve immediately and enjoy your perfectly cooked, juicy ham!
Notes
2. Ham Fit: It is crucial to always check in advance whether your ham will fit into your slow cooker. The lid must be able to close completely for the ham to cook evenly and maintain moisture.
3. Leftover Ideas: Don’t waste those delicious leftovers! Here are some fantastic ideas for the next day:
- Serve thinly sliced ham on sandwiches or sliders.
- Cut into small pieces to add to soups or a hearty main course salad.
- Use as a flavorful topping for homemade pizza.
- Incorporate into breakfast omelets or hashes.
4. Larger Portions in a Slow Cooker: While many recipes can be easily doubled, slow cooker recipes require a bit more care. If you double the weight of the meat, you should also add approximately ¼ – ⅓ cup (50 to 100 ml) of extra liquid (such as water, broth, or orange juice) to maintain moisture. Ensure your slow cooker is large enough for the increased volume.
5. Storage Guidelines:
Allow the cooked ham to cool completely to room temperature before storing.
- Refrigerator: Store the ham in an airtight container. It will remain fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Warming Up: To reheat, preheat your oven to 285 °F (approx. 141 °C). Place the ham in a covered dish with a splash of liquid and heat until the internal core temperature reaches 120 °F (approx. 49 °C).
6. Nutritional Value Disclaimer: The nutritional value shown is an estimate per serving (assuming 4 servings) and for a boneless ham with maple glaze prepared in the slow cooker. Please note that these values can be higher than actual consumption, as they assume all of the glaze is consumed (which is often not the case). Individual results may vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 66g
Protein: 50g
Fat: 39g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g
Monounsaturated Fat: 18g
Trans Fat: 0.003g
Cholesterol: 141mg
Sodium: 2831mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 60g
Vitamin A: 127IU
Vitamin C: 5mg
Iron: 3mg
Baked ham recipe, Maple Glazed Ham, Slow Cooker Ham
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