Spiral Cut Ham Slow Cooker Recipe (Guide)

Ah, the glory of a perfectly cooked spiral cut ham! There’s something undeniably comforting about a juicy, tender ham that practically melts in your mouth, infused with flavors that linger with every bite. Spiral cut hams are a lifesaver for gatherings because they come pre-sliced, making serving a breeze-but cooking them in a slow cooker? That takes them to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Using a slow cooker for a spiral cut ham has multiple advantages:

• Hands-off cooking: You set it, forget it, and let the magic happen.
• Enhanced flavor absorption: The slow, steady heat allows glazes and seasonings to seep deeply into every slice.
• Tender, juicy texture: Unlike oven-baked hams that can dry out if overcooked, slow cookers maintain moisture beautifully.
• Minimal cleanup: No roasting pan disasters here.

Whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast, a casual family dinner, or meal prepping for the week, this method will give you a perfectly caramelized, flavorful ham with minimal effort.

Spiral Cut Ham Slow Cooker Recipe

Here’s the blueprint for transforming a simple spiral cut ham into a slow-cooked masterpiece. The key is slow, low heat combined with a glaze that penetrates and coats each slice with sweet, savory perfection.

Ingredient List

For a slow cooker spiral cut ham that will wow your taste buds, gather the following:

Ham & Base

• 1 fully cooked spiral cut ham (6-8 lbs)
• 1/2 cup water, apple juice, or pineapple juice (for the slow cooker base)

Glaze Options (choose One Or Combine Flavors)

• 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup Dijon or yellow mustard
• 1/4 cup orange juice or pineapple juice
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar
• Optional spices: ground cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, or crushed red pepper for a hint of heat

Optional Garnishes

• Pineapple rings or chunks
• Maraschino cherries
• Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs

Instruction Guide

Follow these steps for a slow-cooked spiral cut ham that’s juicy, flavorful, and easy to serve:

1. Prep The Slow Cooker

   • Pour 1/2 cup of your chosen liquid (water, apple juice, or pineapple juice) into the slow cooker. This prevents the ham from drying out.

2. Prepare The Ham

   • Remove the ham from packaging, including any plastic disks covering the bone.
   • Place the ham cut-side down into the slow cooker.

3. Mix The Glaze

   • In a small bowl, combine your chosen glaze ingredients-brown sugar, honey/maple syrup, mustard, and juice. Stir until smooth.

4. Apply The Glaze

   • Brush the glaze generously over the top of the ham, letting it seep into the slices for extra flavor.

5. Slow Cook

   • Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, depending on the size of your ham. Check for tenderness and internal temperature (should reach around 140°F if pre-cooked).

6. Finish For Extra Caramelization (Optional)

   • For a golden, slightly crispy glaze, transfer the ham to a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes at the end, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

7. Serve & Enjoy

   • Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing further or serving. Garnish with pineapple or cherries for presentation if desired.

Ingredient Swaps

Not everyone has all ingredients on hand, or sometimes you want to adjust flavors. Here are some easy swaps:

• Brown sugar: Use coconut sugar or turbinado sugar.
• Honey/maple syrup: Agave nectar or molasses work in a pinch.
• Mustard: Swap for spicy brown mustard, whole grain mustard, or even a bit of wasabi for a zing.
• Orange/pineapple juice: Apple juice, pear juice, or even a splash of white wine.
• Spices: Play with allspice, cardamom, or ginger instead of the classic cloves and cinnamon.

Helpful Tips

• Don’t skip the liquid: Even a small amount prevents drying and allows the glaze to penetrate.
• Baste occasionally: If your slow cooker allows, spoon glaze over the ham halfway through cooking.
• Avoid overcooking: Pre-cooked hams only need reheating; overcooking can dry them out.
• Use foil for a snug fit: If your ham is slightly larger than the slow cooker, wrap edges with foil to hold it in place.
• Check the glaze consistency: If it’s too thin after cooking, pour it into a small saucepan and simmer to thicken.

Customization Ideas

Want to make this ham uniquely yours? Here’s how:

• Citrus Twist: Add orange or lemon zest to the glaze for a bright, zesty flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in a bit of sriracha, crushed red pepper, or chili powder for a subtle heat.
• Tropical Paradise: Layer pineapple chunks and coconut flakes for an island-inspired glaze.
• Savory Herb: Add fresh rosemary, thyme, or sage directly into the slow cooker for an earthy aroma.
• Maple-Bourbon Fusion: A splash of bourbon adds depth and a slightly smoky-sweet finish.

FAQs

Can I Cook A Spiral Cut Ham In A Slow Cooker?

Yes, a spiral cut ham can be cooked in a slow cooker. The slow cooker allows the ham to heat evenly and stay moist, and it also provides a convenient way to infuse flavor from glazes or liquids over several hours without drying out the meat.

Do I Need To Add Liquid When Cooking A Spiral Cut Ham In A Slow Cooker?

While it is not strictly necessary to submerge the ham in liquid, adding a small amount of water, broth, or a mixture of juice and liquid helps maintain moisture and creates a flavorful base that can enhance the ham’s natural taste.

How Long Should I Cook A Spiral Cut Ham In A Slow Cooker?

Cook a spiral cut ham on low for approximately 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. The exact timing depends on the size of the ham; aim for an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) for pre-cooked hams.

Should I Glaze The Ham Before Or After Cooking In A Slow Cooker?

It is best to glaze the ham during the last 30 to 60 minutes of cooking. Adding glaze too early can cause it to burn or become overly caramelized, while applying it near the end allows the glaze to coat the ham evenly and develop a rich flavor.

Can I Cook A Frozen Spiral Cut Ham In A Slow Cooker?

It is not recommended to cook a frozen ham directly in a slow cooker. Thaw the ham completely in the refrigerator before slow cooking to ensure even heating and food safety.

What Are Some Common Glaze Options For Slow Cooker Spiral Cut Ham?

Popular glaze options include brown sugar and mustard, honey and cloves, maple syrup with pineapple juice, or a combination of fruit preserves and vinegar. Glazes typically add sweetness and help caramelize the outer layer of the ham.

Do I Need To Cover The Ham While Cooking In A Slow Cooker?

Yes, cover the ham with the lid of the slow cooker to retain moisture and heat. Removing the lid frequently can prolong cooking time and may dry out the ham.

Can I Add Vegetables To The Slow Cooker With The Ham?

Yes, vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, onions, and celery can be added around the ham. They will absorb the flavors of the ham and glaze, creating a complete meal in one pot.

How Can I Prevent The Ham From Drying Out In The Slow Cooker?

To prevent dryness, cook the ham on a low setting, add some liquid to the slow cooker, and avoid overcooking. Basting with juices or glaze during cooking can also help maintain moisture.

Is It Safe To Reheat Leftovers From A Slow Cooker Ham?

Yes, leftover slow cooker ham can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to maintain moisture. Avoid reheating multiple times to prevent bacterial growth.