Tender Slow Cooker Maple Glazed Ham Recipe Easy Perfect Holiday Meal

“You won’t believe this,” my neighbor Dave said over the fence last November, holding up a ham he’d just pulled from his slow cooker. I was halfway through trimming a sad-looking squash, and honestly, I wasn’t expecting much. Dave’s more of a grill guy, the type who swears by charcoal and flame, not slow cookers and sweet glazes. But that afternoon, the sweet scent of maple and spice wafted over, and I had to know more.

Turns out, Dave had stumbled onto this tender slow cooker maple glazed ham recipe from a cooking show rerun he caught while fixing his old truck. It was a happy accident—he’d forgotten to preheat the oven for his usual roast and improvised with the slow cooker. That first bite? The glaze was sticky but not overpowering, the ham juicy and fall-apart tender. I remember thinking, “This has to be the easiest holiday meal hack ever.”

Maybe you’ve been there—pressed for time, juggling a million things, and needing a dish that feels special but won’t have you chained to the stove. This recipe does just that. It’s the kind of slow cooker magic that fills your home with warmth and the kind of comfort food that makes everyone gather around the table without fuss. And yeah, I might’ve made a mess with the glaze drips on the counter the first time I tried it. But hey, that’s part of the fun, right?

Since then, I’ve made this tender slow cooker maple glazed ham recipe more times than I can count, and it’s become my go-to for holidays, potlucks, and those nights when you want something hearty but easy. Let me tell you, once you try it, you might find yourself sneaking a second slice before dinner even starts.

Why You’ll Love This Tender Slow Cooker Maple Glazed Ham Recipe

This recipe isn’t just another ham glaze—it’s a tried-and-true method that turns a simple ham into a crowd-pleaser every single time. Honestly, the slow cooker does most of the work, leaving you free to focus on the sides or just relax.

• Quick & Easy: Prep in under 15 minutes, then let the slow cooker handle the rest—perfect for busy holidays or unexpected guests.
• Simple Ingredients: No need to hunt down fancy stuff; maple syrup, mustard, and a few pantry staples are all you need.
• Perfect for Holidays & Gatherings: Impress guests with minimal effort—this ham steals the show without stress.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike rave about the balance of sweet and savory. I’ve never met a leftover that lasted long!
• Unbelievably Tender: The slow cooker keeps the ham moist and juicy, with a glaze that’s sticky but not sticky-sweet.

What makes this recipe stand out is the maple glaze’s subtle depth. Instead of just sugar and spice, it combines pure maple syrup with Dijon mustard and a splash of apple cider vinegar for a bright, tangy finish. Plus, cooking it low and slow means the flavors soak in deeply, and the ham practically falls apart. It’s honestly one of those recipes that feels like a secret weapon when you want something both cozy and impressive.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Most are pantry staples, and the few fresh ones are easy to find year-round.

• Bone-in Spiral Ham: About 6 to 8 pounds (2.7 to 3.6 kg) – I recommend a pre-cooked spiral-cut ham for ease and best texture.
• Pure Maple Syrup: 1 cup (240 ml) – Look for 100% pure maple syrup, like Coombs Family Farms, for rich flavor.
• Dijon Mustard: 2 tablespoons – Adds a subtle tang and balances the sweetness.
• Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup (100 grams), packed – Use light or dark for different caramel notes.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: 1 tablespoon – Brightens the glaze and cuts through richness.
• Ground Cloves: 1/2 teaspoon – A pinch goes a long way to add warmth and depth.
• Ground Cinnamon: 1/4 teaspoon – Optional, for a cozy, festive touch.
• Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon – Rounds out the flavor without overpowering.
• Water: 1/2 cup (120 ml) – Helps keep the ham moist as it cooks.
• Whole Cloves: About 20 – For studding the ham if desired (adds aroma and classic holiday look).

Substitution Tip: If you prefer a lower-sugar glaze, swap half the brown sugar for coconut sugar or omit cinnamon. For a dairy-free option, everything here is naturally free of dairy.

Equipment Needed

• Slow Cooker: A 6-quart (5.7 L) slow cooker works best to comfortably fit the ham. If your cooker is smaller, a slightly smaller ham will do.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient amounts.
• Basting Brush: Handy for coating the ham with glaze during cooking.
• Sharp Knife: For trimming excess fat and slicing the ham after cooking.
• Large Spoon or Ladle: To pour glaze over the ham.

If you don’t have a slow cooker, a Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid can work, but you’ll need to adjust cooking times and temperature. I’ve used both, and while the slow cooker is hands-off, the Dutch oven requires more attention but gives great results too.

Pro tip: Keep your slow cooker’s ceramic insert well-seasoned and clean to prevent sticking, especially when working with sticky glazes like this one.

Preparation Method

1. Prepare the Ham: Remove the ham from packaging and pat dry with paper towels. If there’s a thick layer of fat, trim down to about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thickness for better glaze absorption. Stud the ham with whole cloves by pressing them into the surface evenly. This adds aroma and a traditional look. (Prep time: 10 minutes)
2. Mix the Maple Glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup (240 ml) maple syrup, 1/2 cup (100 g) brown sugar, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional), and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder until smooth. (Prep time: 5 minutes)
3. Place Ham in Slow Cooker: Pour 1/2 cup (120 ml) water into the slow cooker bottom to keep moisture in. Place the ham cut-side down in the slow cooker. (Prep time: 2 minutes)
4. Apply Initial Glaze: Brush about half of the maple glaze evenly over the ham’s surface. Reserve the rest for basting later. (Prep time: 3 minutes)
5. Cook Low and Slow: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours. The slow cooker will keep the ham moist and tender while the glaze caramelizes gently. (Cook time: 4 to 5 hours)
6. Baste Periodically: About halfway through cooking (after 2 hours), carefully lift the lid and baste the ham with another generous layer of the maple glaze. Replace the lid promptly to keep heat in. (Prep time: 5 minutes)
7. Final Glaze and Crisp (Optional): For a caramelized finish, you can transfer the ham to a foil-lined baking sheet and broil for 3–5 minutes, watching closely so it doesn’t burn. This step is optional but adds a lovely golden crust. (Prep time: 5 minutes; broil time: 3–5 minutes)
8. Rest and Serve: Let the ham rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute for maximum tenderness. (Rest time: 10 minutes)

Troubleshooting Tip: If your glaze seems too runny, reduce the water slightly next time or add a bit more brown sugar. The glaze should be thick enough to stick but not so thick it burns easily.

I once left the slow cooker lid off for too long while basting and lost a bunch of heat—don’t make the same mistake! Keep the lid on tight, and you’ll get that melt-in-your-mouth texture every time.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Getting a ham that’s tender and flavorful without drying out can be tricky, but a few tricks make all the difference.

• Low and Slow is the Way to Go: The slow cooker’s gentle heat breaks down connective tissue, making the ham juicy and tender. Resist the urge to crank up the heat; patience pays off here.
• Don’t Skip the Cloves: They might seem old-fashioned, but those whole cloves studded in the ham add subtle warmth and a festive aroma that’s hard to beat.
• Baste with Care: Basting during cooking keeps the glaze fresh and sticky. Use a silicone brush for easy cleanup and even coating.
• Watch Your Salt: Spiral-cut hams can be salty already, so taste your glaze before adding extra salt.
• Timing Matters: If you’re short on time, cook on HIGH for 3 hours, but be aware the texture won’t be quite as tender. I’ve tried both; slow and low always wins for tenderness.
• Let It Rest: Resting the ham is key. It lets the juices settle so every slice is juicy, not dry.

Honestly, the first time I tried this recipe, I got distracted and forgot to baste halfway through. The glaze was still tasty, but I noticed the top was less sticky. Lesson learned: set a timer!

Variations & Adaptations

This tender slow cooker maple glazed ham recipe is versatile and can be tweaked to suit your taste or dietary needs.

• Spicy Maple Glaze: Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the glaze for a sweet-heat combo that wakes up the palate.
• Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but double-check your mustard and vinegar labels if you have sensitivities.
• Apple and Herb Twist: Add 1 cup (240 ml) apple cider and a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme to the slow cooker for a fragrant herbal note.
• Diet-Friendly Lower Sugar: Replace half the brown sugar with a sugar substitute like monk fruit or erythritol and reduce maple syrup to 3/4 cup (180 ml).
• Vegetarian Glaze for Tofu or Tempeh: Use the maple glaze on thick slices of smoked tofu or tempeh, slow cook gently or bake for 30 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

I once made this with a splash of bourbon in the glaze for a New Year’s Eve party—let’s just say it was a hit and vanished quickly!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve this ham warm or at room temperature for best flavor. The sticky maple glaze looks beautiful when drizzled over thick slices served on a festive platter.

• Pair with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a fresh green salad to balance the sweetness.
• A crisp apple or pear cider complements the maple notes nicely, but a simple sparkling water with lemon works too.
• Store leftovers tightly wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, and the texture stays tender.
• For longer storage, slice and freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheat gently in a 325°F (160°C) oven covered with foil to avoid drying out, or microwave in short bursts with a splash of water to keep moist.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This tender slow cooker maple glazed ham recipe offers a hearty, protein-rich meal with a moderate calorie count per serving. A typical 4-ounce (113 g) slice provides about 250 calories, 20 grams of protein, and moderate sodium levels depending on the ham used.

• Health Highlights: Ham is a good source of protein and essential minerals like zinc and iron.
• Maple Syrup: Natural sweetener with antioxidants and minerals, a better alternative to refined sugar.
• Gluten-Free: Naturally free from gluten, suitable for many dietary needs.
• Moderate Sugar: The glaze adds sweetness but remains balanced with mustard and vinegar to avoid overwhelming sugar content.
• Allergens: Contains mustard; check for cross-contamination if highly sensitive.

From a wellness perspective, this recipe feels like a treat without going overboard, especially when paired with fresh vegetables and whole grains.

Conclusion

So, whether you’re scrambling last minute before a holiday meal or just craving a comforting, tender ham that doesn’t demand hours of babysitting, this tender slow cooker maple glazed ham recipe delivers. It’s simple, approachable, and absolutely delicious—making your kitchen smell like a cozy celebration every time.

Feel free to tweak the glaze to your taste or try one of the variations to keep things fresh. Honestly, that’s part of the joy—making it your own.

If you give this recipe a go, I’d love to hear how it turned out or what twists you tried. Drop a comment below or share your photos—nothing beats seeing your kitchen wins!

Happy cooking and here’s to many cozy meals filled with maple-sweet warmth and tender bites!

FAQs About Tender Slow Cooker Maple Glazed Ham

Can I use a boneless ham instead of a bone-in ham?

Absolutely! A boneless ham will work fine; just adjust the cooking time slightly since it may cook faster—start checking around 3.5 hours.

Is it necessary to stud the ham with whole cloves?

Not necessary, but whole cloves add a lovely aroma and a traditional look. You can skip them if you prefer a simpler presentation.

Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

Yes, the glaze can be mixed up to 2 days ahead and stored in the fridge. Give it a good stir before using as ingredients may settle.

How do I avoid the glaze burning or becoming too sticky?

Keep the slow cooker on LOW and baste occasionally. If broiling for a crust, watch closely and broil just a few minutes to prevent burning.

What sides pair best with this maple glazed ham?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, or a fresh salad all work beautifully. For drinks, consider apple cider or a light white wine.

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