Crockpot Spiral Ham filled my kitchen with the kind of rich, sweet, and savory aroma that instantly makes a meal feel like a celebration.
The moment I lifted the slow cooker lid, warm notes of maple syrup and brown sugar drifted through the air, blending perfectly with the gentle tang of mustard.
Preparing this Crockpot Spiral Ham felt surprisingly simple, yet the results tasted like something that required hours of careful attention. The glaze slowly seeped into every slice of the ham, creating layers of flavor that were tender, juicy, and slightly caramelized around the edges.
What I love most about this Crockpot Spiral Ham recipe is how it transforms a fully cooked ham into something even more special. The slow cooker allows the flavors to build gradually, making the meat incredibly moist without any complicated steps.
Why Crockpot Spiral Ham is the Ideal Recipe
After preparing this Crockpot Spiral Ham, I quickly realized why Crockpot Spiral Ham has become one of my favorite slow cooker recipes. The biggest advantage is convenience. Since the ham is already cooked, the crockpot simply enhances its flavor while keeping the meat juicy and tender.
I appreciated how little preparation was required. Once the glaze was added, the slow cooker handled the rest while I focused on preparing side dishes.
For those who enjoy bold flavors, Spicy Southwest Ranch Chicken Tortellini Skillet makes a satisfying alternative main dish. Another excellent option for slow cooker fans is Crockpot Ribs Recipe, which delivers tender, fall-off-the-bone results similar to this ham.
Key Ingredients in Crockpot Spiral Ham Recipe
-7-8 pounds cooked bone-in spiral-cut ham: This serves as the centerpiece of the dish. The spiral slicing allows the glaze to seep into each layer, ensuring consistent flavor throughout.
-Dijon mustard or grainy mustard: Adds a gentle tang that balances the sweetness of the glaze. I found it helps deepen the overall flavor profile.
-Brown sugar: Provides sweetness and helps form a lightly caramelized coating on the ham during cooking.
-Pure maple syrup: Enhances the sweetness while adding a warm, natural richness that pairs beautifully with the ham.
-Apple cider or apple juice: Keeps the ham moist while adding a subtle fruity brightness. Orange or pineapple juice can be used for a slightly different flavor variation.
Print
Crockpot Spiral Ham Recipe
- Total Time: 3 hours 10 min
- Yield: 10–12 servings
Description
Crockpot Spiral Ham Recipe features a juicy spiral-cut ham slow-cooked with brown sugar, Dijon mustard, pure maple syrup, and apple cider. This easy recipe creates a tender, sweet, and savory glazed ham perfect for holidays or family dinners.
Ingredients
-7-8 lbs. cooked bone-in spiral-cut ham
-2 tbsp Dijon mustard or grainy mustard
-1 cup brown sugar
-⅔ cup pure maple syrup
-1 cup apple cider or apple juice, not apple cider vinegar! Orange or pineapple juices also work
Instructions
Spray your crockpot with nonstick cooking spray. Place the ham in the center.7-8 lbs. cooked bone-in spiral-cut ham
Brush the ham with the mustard.2 tbsp Dijon mustard
Rub the brown sugar all over the surface.1 cup brown sugar
Pour the maple syrup and apple cider over the ham.⅔ cup pure maple syrup,1 cup apple cider
Cover and cook on low for 3 hours.
Once the ham is warmed through, set it on your serving platter and tent with foil.
Pour the juices from the crockpot into a medium pot and boil until the sauce reduces enough to coat the back of the spoon.
Brush or pour it all over the cooked ham. Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
How to Crockpot Spiral Ham Step-by-Step
-Prepare the slow cooker by spraying it thoroughly with nonstick cooking spray. This helps prevent the glaze from sticking and makes cleanup much easier later.
-Place the cooked bone-in spiral-cut ham in the center of the crockpot. I found positioning the ham flat-side down helps it heat evenly.
-Brush the entire surface of the ham with Dijon or grainy mustard. Make sure to coat between the slices so the tangy flavor spreads throughout the meat.
-Rub the brown sugar evenly over the ham. Press it gently into the surface to help it stick and begin forming the glaze.
-Pour the maple syrup and apple cider or juice over the ham. The liquid will collect at the bottom and gradually infuse the ham as it cooks.
-Cover the crockpot and cook on low for about 3 hours. During this time, the ham will absorb the glaze and warm thoroughly.
-Carefully transfer the warmed ham to a serving platter and tent loosely with foil to retain heat.
-Pour the juices from the crockpot into a medium saucepan. Bring the liquid to a boil and allow it to reduce until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
-Brush or pour the thickened glaze over the ham before serving. This final step adds shine and intensifies the flavor.
Crockpot Spiral Ham Recipe Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Approximate Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Carbohydrates | 24 g |
| Sugars | 22 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Cholesterol | 95 mg |
| Sodium | 1350 mg |
| Potassium | 480 mg |
| Iron | 8% Daily Value |
FAQs
Can I use a boneless spiral ham for this recipe?
Yes, boneless spiral ham works well. However, bone-in ham typically provides more flavor and helps retain moisture during cooking.
What if my ham is too large for my crockpot?
You can trim a small portion off the bottom to help it fit. The removed pieces can be warmed separately or used in other dishes.
Can I cook Crockpot Spiral Ham longer than 3 hours?
It is possible, but extended cooking may cause the ham to become overly soft. Since the ham is already cooked, the goal is simply to heat and flavor it.
How should I store leftover ham?
Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The ham can also be frozen for longer storage.
Can I prepare the glaze differently?
Yes, you can add spices like cinnamon or cloves for additional warmth. Pineapple juice or orange juice can also replace apple cider for a sweeter citrus note.
How do I reheat leftover ham without drying it out?
Reheat slices in a covered dish with a small amount of leftover glaze or broth to maintain moisture.
Conclusion
After preparing Crockpot Spiral Ham, I found it to be one of the easiest ways to create a centerpiece meal that feels both comforting and impressive. The slow cooker method ensures every slice remains tender and flavorful, while the glaze adds a beautiful balance of sweetness and tang.
This recipe delivers dependable results and brings warmth to any gathering, making it one worth returning to again and again.
Looking for inspiration? Visit Elise Chef on Pinterest to explore beautifully curated high-fiber recipes and discover your next healthy habit.