Name: Slow Cooker Ham
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 270 min
Total time: 280 min
Ingredients: 1 bone-in spiral-cut ham (7–8 lbs / 3.2–3.6 kg, fully cooked; discard any included glaze packet); 1 cup dark brown sugar (200g, packed; dark brown sugar gives a deeper caramel flavor than light); 1/3 cup honey (80ml; raw honey preferred for best flavor); 1/2 cup pineapple juice (120ml; adds a subtle tang that balances the richness of the ham); 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (Adds a sharp savory note to balance the sweetness); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (Optional but recommended; gives the glaze a classic holiday aroma); 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (Adds warmth and depth to the glaze); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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I still remember the first time I tried making a slow cooker ham recipe for Easter. My oven was packed with scalloped potatoes and green bean casserole, and I had absolutely nowhere to put a 7-pound ham.

A friend suggested I just throw it in the crockpot with some brown sugar and pineapple juice, and I honestly thought she was joking. When I pulled it out hours later, impossibly tender and glazed with that sweet, sticky sauce, I was completely converted.

Now I make it this way every single time, whether it’s a holiday or just a Sunday when I want something special without the fuss. The slow cooker does all the hard work, and the result is juicier, more flavorful ham than I ever managed in the oven.

The secret, I’ve learned, is choosing the right ham and not overthinking the glaze. A bone-in spiral-cut ham soaks up that brown sugar, honey, pineapple juice, and Dijon mustard mixture in a way that oven-roasting just can’t replicate. Once I started making it this way, I stopped stressing over holiday dinners entirely.

Quick Recipe Summary
Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	4–5 hours (on low)
Total Time	4 hours 10 minutes
Servings	10–12 servings
Difficulty Level	Easy

If you love easy holiday mains, you’ll also want to check out my Baked Ham Recipe for a classic oven version perfect for smaller gatherings.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Ham Recipe

Making ham in the slow cooker is honestly one of the best kitchen shortcuts I’ve ever discovered. It frees up your oven completely, requires almost zero hands-on time, and produces a ham that is so tender it practically falls apart.

The glaze is everything. Brown sugar, honey, pineapple juice, and Dijon mustard come together into this gorgeous caramelized sauce that seeps between every slice.

It is just as impressive as a oven-baked ham, but without any of the constant basting or temperature-monitoring stress. Your guests will never know it took you only 10 minutes to prep.

Virtually no prep work: You mix a quick glaze, pour it over the ham, and walk away. That is the entire job.
Keeps the oven free: For holidays especially, having one major dish in the slow cooker means your oven is available for sides, casseroles, and desserts.
Incredibly moist results: The enclosed moist heat of the slow cooker means the ham never dries out, which is a very common oven problem.
Crowd-pleasing flavor: That sweet-savory brown sugar and pineapple glaze appeals to every age, from kids to grandparents.
Works for any occasion: From Easter and Thanksgiving to a casual Sunday dinner, this recipe fits any table.
Great leftovers: Ham leftovers are some of the most versatile in the kitchen. Sandwiches, soups, breakfast omelets, the list goes on.
Budget-friendly: A single ham feeds a crowd for a fraction of the cost of other proteins.

Another slow cooker classic worth bookmarking: Slow Cooker Pot Roast

Ingredients

You only need a handful of ingredients to make this recipe sing. I always buy a bone-in spiral-cut ham because the pre-sliced layers let the glaze soak all the way through, giving you maximum flavor in every single bite.

1 bone-in spiral-cut ham, 7–8 lbs / 3.2–3.6 kg (fully cooked) — discard any glaze packet that comes with it
1 cup / 200g packed dark brown sugar — dark brown sugar gives a deeper, richer caramel flavor than light
1/3 cup / 80ml honey — adds sweetness and helps the glaze stick to the meat
1/2 cup / 120ml pineapple juice — brings a subtle tropical tang that balances the richness of the ham
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard — adds a sharp, savory note that keeps the glaze from being too sweet
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder — a background savory note that makes everything pop
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves — optional but highly recommended; this is what gives the glaze that warm, classic holiday aroma
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon — adds warmth and depth to the glaze
1/4 teaspoon black pepper — just a little to round out the sweetness

For a cozy meal to follow up with leftover ham, my Ham and Potato Soup is an absolute must-make.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

You do not need any fancy gadgets for this recipe, which is one of the things I love about it. A large slow cooker is truly the only essential piece.

Large oval slow cooker (7–8 quart) — a large oval shape is key; it accommodates a whole spiral ham much better than a round cooker
Mixing bowl — for whisking together the glaze ingredients
Whisk or fork — to blend the glaze smoothly
Instant-read meat thermometer — essential for confirming your ham reaches 140°F / 60°C internally
Basting brush (optional) — useful if you want to paint the glaze more precisely between slices
Medium saucepan — if you choose to reduce the leftover cooking liquid into a thicker glaze for serving
Large serving platter — for presenting the ham beautifully at the table
Sharp carving knife and fork — for slicing, if your ham is not pre-sliced

Read Also: Crockpot Fall Recipes

Recommended Products for This Recipe

These are the tools and ingredients I personally reach for whenever I make this ham. A little investment in quality here really does make a difference.

1. Large Oval Slow Cooker (7–8 Quart)

A large oval-shaped slow cooker is non-negotiable for this recipe. A round cooker simply will not fit most spiral hams without you having to trim the meat, and you lose all that beautiful presentation. The 7–8 quart oval size is the sweet spot for fitting a full holiday ham with room for the lid to seal properly.

Get it on Amazon

2. Instant-Read Meat Thermometer

I learned the hard way that you cannot always trust cooking times alone when it comes to ham. Different ham sizes and starting temperatures vary enough that a meat thermometer is the only way to know for certain that your ham is heated through to a safe 140°F / 60°C. This is one of those kitchen tools that pays for itself the first time you use it.

Get it on Amazon

3. High-Quality Dark Brown Sugar

The difference between a grocery-store generic brown sugar and a high-quality one is noticeable in the depth of the glaze. A true dark brown sugar with higher molasses content gives the glaze that deep, caramel-like richness that makes people ask for your recipe. It is worth seeking out.

Get it on Amazon

4. Raw Honey

Standard processed honey works fine, but raw honey has a more complex floral flavor that genuinely elevates the glaze. Since the honey is one of the main flavor players in this recipe, using a good one is a small upgrade with a noticeable result.

Get it on Amazon

5. Silicone Basting Brush

A silicone basting brush lets you paint the glaze between the sliced layers of a spiral ham with real precision. Unlike bristle brushes, silicone ones do not lose bristles into your food and are a breeze to clean. Once I started using one, I never went back.

Get it on Amazon

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Slow Cooker Ham

Step 1: Prepare Your Ham

Remove the ham from all packaging and set it on your clean countertop or a large cutting board.
Check for a plastic cap covering the end of the bone and discard it immediately — this is not meant to cook with the ham.
If your ham came with a glaze or flavor packet, set it aside or throw it away. You will be making a far better homemade glaze.
If you have a spiral-cut ham, gently fan out the pre-cut slices slightly with your hands. This opens up gaps between the slices so the glaze can seep all the way through the meat rather than just coating the outside.
Pat the outside of the ham dry with paper towels. This helps the glaze adhere better rather than sliding right off.

Step 2: Mix the Glaze

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the 1 cup / 200g dark brown sugar, 1/3 cup / 80ml honey, 1/2 cup / 120ml pineapple juice, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves, 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
Whisk everything together until the brown sugar is mostly dissolved and the mixture is smooth and uniform.
The glaze will be pourable but thick enough to cling to the meat. If it seems too thin, add another tablespoon of brown sugar. If it seems too thick, add a splash more pineapple juice.
Taste the glaze at this stage. It should be sweet with a slight tang from the mustard and pineapple juice. Adjust to your preference before cooking.

Step 3: Place the Ham in the Slow Cooker

Spray the inside of your 7–8 quart oval slow cooker lightly with non-stick cooking spray or wipe it with a small amount of neutral oil to prevent sticking.
Place the ham flat-side down (or cut-side down) into the slow cooker. This position keeps the most surface area of the ham exposed and allows the glaze to pool naturally around the base.
If your ham is too tall and the lid will not close, you have two options: gently tilt the ham on its side, or trim a small section off the top. The lid must seal completely for proper slow cooking.

Step 4: Apply the Glaze

Pour about two-thirds of your prepared glaze directly over the top of the ham, letting it drip down the sides and between the spiral-cut slices.
Use a basting brush or a spoon to work some of the glaze into the crevices between the sliced layers for maximum flavor penetration.
Reserve the remaining one-third of the glaze in your mixing bowl. You will use this for basting partway through cooking.
Place the lid firmly on the slow cooker.

Step 5: Cook the Ham

Set your slow cooker to LOW heat. Low and slow is the key to keeping this ham moist and tender without drying it out.
Cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours, checking at the 4-hour mark for a smaller ham and at 5 hours for a larger one.
Around the 2-hour mark, if you can do so without letting too much heat escape, quickly lift the lid and spoon or brush some of the reserved glaze over the top of the ham. This extra basting step deepens the flavor significantly.
Avoid lifting the lid repeatedly, as every time you open the slow cooker you lose heat and extend the cooking time.
The ham is done when an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat (avoiding the bone) reads 140°F / 60°C.

Step 6: Optional — Reduce the Glaze

Once the ham is done cooking, carefully transfer it to a large serving platter and tent it loosely with aluminum foil to rest.
Pour the cooking liquid from the bottom of the slow cooker into a medium saucepan.
Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat and let it simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reduces and thickens into a glossy sauce.
If you want a thicker consistency, whisk 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry and stir it into the simmering liquid. It will thicken within a minute or two.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Let the ham rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat so they do not all run out when you cut into it.
Drizzle the reduced glaze generously over the ham just before serving, or serve it in a small pitcher on the side so guests can pour it themselves.
For a spiral-cut ham, simply use the pre-cut slices as your guide and pull them apart or slice between them with a carving fork.
Garnish the platter with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, and orange or pineapple slices for a festive presentation if desired.

Tips for The Best Slow Cooker Ham

Making this recipe is genuinely simple, but a few small details take it from good to truly outstanding. These are the lessons I have picked up after making this dozens of times.

Always use a fully cooked ham. Most hams sold in grocery stores are already fully cooked and just need to be reheated and flavored. Read the label carefully before you buy. Using a raw ham in this recipe will result in undercooked meat.
Choose bone-in for flavor. A bone-in ham produces a richer, more flavorful result than boneless because the bone adds depth during slow cooking. Boneless works fine for convenience, but bone-in is worth it for special occasions.
Spiral-cut versus whole: Spiral-cut hams absorb the glaze far more effectively because of all those exposed surfaces. Whole unsliced hams hold their moisture a bit better during cooking. Both work, just adjust your expectations for texture.
Do not skip the resting step. Letting the ham rest for 10 minutes after cooking keeps it juicy. Slicing it immediately causes the juices to pour out and the meat dries up quickly on the platter.
Keep the lid on. Resist the urge to check constantly. Every time you lift the lid, you lose about 15–20 minutes of cooking time.
Size matters for cooking time. A 5-pound ham may only need 3.5 hours on low. A 9-pound ham may need closer to 5.5 hours. Always use a thermometer as your guide rather than relying solely on time.
Make the glaze sauce. Reducing the leftover cooking liquid into a sauce takes only 10 minutes and adds a whole other level of flavor. Do not pour it down the drain.
Use the right slow cooker size. A 6-quart slow cooker can handle up to about a 7-pound ham. For anything larger, use a 7–8 quart oval cooker.

Another great slow cooker recipe to try: Slow Cooker Chili

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Ham

Ham is one of the most accommodating proteins at any table — it pairs naturally with so many sides, from creamy starches to bright, fresh vegetables. These are my favorite pairings that I come back to again and again.

Here are some of the best dishes to serve alongside your slow cooker ham:

Au Gratin Potatoes — the creamy, cheesy potato layers are an absolute classic next to glazed ham
Mashed Potatoes — buttery and smooth, perfect for soaking up that sweet glaze
Green Bean Casserole — a holiday table staple that complements the sweet-savory ham beautifully
Sweet Potato Casserole — the natural sweetness of sweet potato pairs perfectly with the caramelized glaze
Scalloped Potatoes — rich and indulgent, a classic ham accompaniment
Coleslaw — a crisp, tangy coleslaw cuts through the richness of the ham for a refreshing contrast
Dinner Rolls — soft, pillowy rolls are essential for scooping up every drop of the glaze
Deviled Eggs — a beloved holiday appetizer that rounds out the spread perfectly
Maple Glazed Carrots — the maple and carrot sweetness is a natural companion to brown sugar ham
Broccoli Salad — a bright, crunchy salad that adds freshness to an otherwise rich plate

For a crowd-pleasing side, my Cheesy Potatoes are always a huge hit alongside ham.

Variations of Slow Cooker Ham

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily the glaze can be adjusted to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some of my favorite ways to change things up.

Maple Bourbon Glaze: Replace the pineapple juice with 1/4 cup of bourbon and add 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup to the glaze. The bourbon adds a smoky, caramel depth that is exceptional.
Apple Cider Ham: Swap the pineapple juice for an equal amount of fresh apple cider and add a pinch of allspice. This variation leans into warm, autumnal flavors that are perfect for Thanksgiving.
Orange Glazed Ham: Use fresh orange juice instead of pineapple juice and add a tablespoon of orange zest to the glaze. The bright citrus cuts through the sweetness beautifully.
Spicy Brown Sugar Ham: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper and 1 tablespoon of hot sauce to the glaze for a sweet-heat combination that is addictive.
Honey Mustard Ham: Double the Dijon mustard to 4 tablespoons and reduce the brown sugar to 3/4 cup for a tangier, more mustard-forward glaze.
Boneless Ham Version: Use a boneless ham of similar weight and reduce cooking time by about 30–45 minutes, checking temperature earlier.
Cherry Glazed Ham: Replace the pineapple juice with cherry juice and add a can of drained maraschino cherries around the ham in the slow cooker for a festive look.

You might also love this Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops for another sweet-savory pork main.

Storage and Reheating

Ham keeps beautifully, and leftover slow cooker ham is honestly something to look forward to. Stored properly, it tastes just as good the next day.

Refrigerator storage: Let the ham cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days.
Freezer storage: Slice or shred the leftover ham and store in freezer-safe zip-lock bags or airtight containers for up to 2–3 months. Press out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating sliced ham: Place slices in a baking dish with a splash of water or extra glaze, cover tightly with foil, and warm in a 325°F / 165°C oven for 10–15 minutes until heated through.
Reheating in the microwave: Place a few slices on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. The damp towel helps keep moisture in.
Slow cooker reheat: For reheating a large portion, place the ham back in the slow cooker with a cup of broth or the reserved glaze and warm on LOW for 1–2 hours until heated through.
Using leftovers: Leftover ham is incredible in soups, omelets, breakfast burritos, pasta dishes, grilled cheese sandwiches, and casseroles.

Another great use for leftover ham: Pork and Apple Skillet

Nutritional Facts

The following values are approximate per serving, based on a 10-serving yield from a 7-pound bone-in ham with glaze. Actual values will vary based on your specific ham, brand, and the amount of glaze consumed.

| Nutrient | Per Serving (approx.) | ||| | Calories | 380–420 kcal | | Protein | 30–35g | | Total Fat | 12–16g | | Saturated Fat | 4–5g | | Carbohydrates | 28–32g | | Sugar | 26–30g | | Sodium | 1,100–1,400mg | | Cholesterol | 90–100mg | | Fiber | 0g |

Note: Ham is naturally high in sodium due to the curing process. If you are monitoring sodium intake, look for reduced-sodium ham options at the grocery store.

For a hearty meal that uses up leftover ham, try my Slow Cooker Potato Soup

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

Ham and its glaze ingredients bring more nutritional value to the table than you might expect. While this is certainly a celebratory dish, the key ingredients each offer real benefits worth knowing about.

Here is a closer look at what makes this recipe more nourishing than it might appear:

Ham (lean pork): Ham is an excellent source of complete protein, delivering all essential amino acids your body needs for muscle maintenance and repair. It is also rich in B vitamins, particularly B12 and niacin, which support energy metabolism and nervous system health. Pork is also a good source of zinc and selenium, both important for immune function.
Honey: Raw honey contains antioxidants including flavonoids and phenolic acids, which help combat oxidative stress in the body. It also has mild antimicrobial properties and has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for soothing throats and supporting wound healing.
Pineapple juice: Pineapple contains bromelain, a natural enzyme with documented anti-inflammatory properties. It also provides vitamin C, which supports immune health and collagen production, and manganese, important for bone health and metabolism.
Dijon mustard: Mustard seeds contain glucosinolates, compounds studied for their potential cancer-fighting properties. Mustard also provides selenium and omega-3 fatty acids, and is very low in calories compared to other condiments.
Garlic powder: Garlic, even in powdered form, retains allicin-related compounds associated with cardiovascular benefits. It has long been studied for its ability to help support healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Ground cloves: Cloves are one of the most antioxidant-rich spices in the world. They contain eugenol, a compound with powerful anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, and they also support healthy blood sugar management.
Cinnamon: Cinnamon is widely researched for its ability to help regulate blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity. It is also rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Another nourishing pork dish to try: Slow Cooker Pork Stew

FAQs About Slow Cooker Ham

1. What type of ham is best for the slow cooker?

A fully cooked, bone-in spiral-cut ham is the most popular choice for this recipe. The spiral slices allow the glaze to penetrate deeply, and the bone adds extra flavor to the cooking liquid.

Boneless hams also work well and are easier to slice and serve. Just make sure the label says “fully cooked” or “ready to eat” before using it in this recipe.

2. How do I know when the slow cooker ham is done?

The ham is done when an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat (not touching the bone) reads 140°F / 60°C. Since most grocery store hams are already fully cooked, you are really just reheating the meat and infusing it with the glaze’s flavor.

Relying solely on time is not reliable because ham sizes vary significantly. A thermometer is always your most accurate tool.

3. Can I cook a frozen ham in the slow cooker?

You should not cook a frozen ham directly in the slow cooker. The frozen exterior may not heat evenly, which creates food safety risks.

Thaw your ham completely in the refrigerator first, which takes approximately 24 hours for every 5 pounds of meat. Once fully thawed, it is safe to proceed with the recipe as written.

4. Can I make this recipe with a boneless ham?

Yes, absolutely. A boneless ham works beautifully in this recipe and is actually easier to serve since there is no bone to slice around. Reduce your cooking time by about 30–45 minutes compared to a bone-in ham of the same weight.

Always use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness rather than relying on time estimates alone.

5. What can I do with the leftover cooking liquid?

The cooking liquid at the bottom of your slow cooker after the ham is done is liquid gold. Pour it into a saucepan and simmer over medium-high heat until it reduces by about half and thickens into a glossy glaze.

You can drizzle this reduced sauce over your ham slices when serving, spoon it over mashed potatoes, or store it in the fridge and use it to flavor leftover ham when reheating. It keeps well for up to 5 days refrigerated.

For another easy holiday-worthy dish, try my BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Final Thoughts

This slow cooker ham recipe has genuinely transformed how I approach holiday cooking. Once I realized I could have a show-stopping, flavorful, juicy ham on the table with just 10 minutes of prep and zero stress, I never looked back.

It is the kind of recipe that makes you look like a far more accomplished cook than you actually are, and I mean that as the highest possible compliment.

If you make this for your family’s next holiday table, I would absolutely love to hear how it goes. Drop a comment below and let me know what glaze variation you tried, or whether you served it with any of the side dish pairings I mentioned.

And if you took a photo, please share it! Nothing makes me happier than seeing this recipe showing up on real family tables.

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