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Tender Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Ham Recipe with Brown Sugar Glaze

slow cooker honey mustard ham - featured image

A tender, juicy slow cooker ham glazed with a sweet and tangy honey mustard and brown sugar mixture, perfect for easy holiday meals and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 to 5-pound fully cooked bone-in ham (spiral-cut or whole)
  • 1/2 cup honey (raw or wildflower recommended)
  • 1/3 cup Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard for milder taste)
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar (dark brown sugar preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Optional: whole cloves for studding the ham
  • Optional: orange zest or juice for citrus twist

Instructions

  1. Remove the ham from packaging and pat dry with paper towels. If not pre-sliced, score the surface in a diamond pattern about 1/4 inch deep. Optionally stud with whole cloves.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth and pourable.
  3. Place the ham flat side down in a 6-quart or larger slow cooker. Spoon about half of the glaze over the ham, coating evenly with a brush or spoon.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
  5. Every 90 minutes, lift the lid carefully and baste the ham with the remaining glaze to build a caramelized crust.
  6. When done, transfer the ham to a serving platter, tent loosely with foil, and let rest for 10-15 minutes to allow juices to redistribute and glaze to set.
  7. Carve the ham against the grain or pull apart with forks if very tender. Spoon any pan juices over slices before serving.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham reaches 140°F (60°C). Basting every 90 minutes helps build a flavorful caramelized glaze. Let the ham rest before carving to keep it juicy. Optional add-ins like cloves or citrus zest add aroma and flavor. For gluten-free, verify mustard and vinegar labels. Can substitute honey with maple syrup or brown sugar with coconut sugar.

Nutrition

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