When holiday chaos hits, your slow cooker becomes your best kitchen helper. These fool-proof Christmas ham recipes make it simple to serve a meal that looks impressive with almost no effort. Just set it, forget it, and let your kitchen fill with the aroma of honey, cloves, and spice. Whether you like your ham sweet, smoky, or spiked with citrus, these slow cooker recipes guarantee juicy perfection every time — without the stress.
1. Classic Brown Sugar Glazed Ham
Start simple. Rub your ham with brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and a splash of apple cider. Let it cook low and slow for six hours. The sugar melts into a sticky glaze that’s both sweet and savory. Add a few cloves for extra aroma. Serve with roasted veggies for an easy, timeless meal.
2. Pineapple Honey Glazed Ham
Layer pineapple rings over your ham and drizzle with honey. Add pineapple juice to the slow cooker for extra flavor. As it cooks, the sauce caramelizes into a sweet tropical glaze. Perfect for balancing the saltiness of the ham. Use leftover juice as a dipping sauce.
3. Maple Dijon Slow Cooker Ham
Combine maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar for a tangy glaze. Brush it over the ham and let it cook until tender. The flavors deepen over time, creating a glossy finish. This recipe is both elegant and affordable — a family favorite with minimal effort.
4. Cranberry Glazed Ham
Mix cranberry sauce with orange juice and brown sugar. Pour it over your ham and cook for five hours. The tart berries add color and a festive touch. Perfect for those who like a little zing with their sweetness. Save the leftover sauce for sandwiches.
5. Apple Cider Slow Cooker Ham
Add sliced apples, cinnamon sticks, and apple cider to your slow cooker. The steam infuses the ham with gentle sweetness. It’s warm, aromatic, and ideal for Christmas morning. Try brushing the ham with butter halfway through for extra richness.
6. Orange Clove Ham
Stud the ham with whole cloves, then pour over orange juice mixed with honey. As it cooks, the citrus glaze thickens beautifully. It’s bright, tangy, and pairs well with roasted potatoes. The scent alone makes the house feel festive.
7. Bourbon Glazed Ham
Whisk together brown sugar, bourbon, and molasses. Pour over the ham and let it slow cook until sticky and rich. The alcohol cooks off, leaving behind deep caramel flavors. A grown-up twist on a Christmas favorite — perfect for evening dinners.
8. Cherry Cola Ham
Pour cherry cola and brown sugar into your slow cooker. As it cooks, the soda caramelizes and gives the ham a glossy finish. Add maraschino cherries for color. The sweetness blends beautifully with the salty ham for a nostalgic flavor combo.
9. Garlic Herb Ham
For a savory version, mix melted vegan butter, minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Brush over the ham every hour. The herbs infuse the meat with earthy flavor, perfect for those who prefer less sweetness. Serve with mashed potatoes or green beans.
10. Mustard Brown Sugar Ham
Whisk Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Pour over the ham and cook until tender. The sugar forms a crust while the mustard adds sharpness. Great for sandwiches the next day — it stays juicy and flavorful.
11. Peach Jam Glazed Ham
Use a jar of peach jam, a splash of lemon juice, and a pinch of chili flakes. Pour over your ham for a fruity, slightly spicy glaze. The jam caramelizes beautifully in the slow cooker. It’s unexpected but a total crowd-pleaser.
12. Brown Butter Ham
Melt butter until golden, then mix with maple syrup and garlic. Pour over your ham and slow cook. The brown butter adds a nutty depth that enhances every slice. It’s rich, aromatic, and pairs well with roasted root vegetables.
13. Spiced Apple Butter Ham
Mix apple butter with cinnamon and cloves, then spread it over the ham. Cook on low until the glaze thickens. The flavor is warm and homey, perfect for cozy Christmas gatherings. Serve with baked apples or cornbread.
14. Pomegranate Glazed Ham
Combine pomegranate juice, honey, and soy sauce for a tangy glaze. The color turns deep red as it cooks, giving the ham a festive look. Garnish with pomegranate seeds for a fresh crunch. It’s light, flavorful, and beautiful on the table.
15. Honey Garlic Ham
Mix honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Pour it into the slow cooker with your ham. The glaze turns sticky and sweet with a hint of savory. Add a few chili flakes if you like spice. It’s simple and crowd-friendly.
16. Pineapple Teriyaki Ham
Combine teriyaki sauce, pineapple juice, and brown sugar. The result is a tropical, Asian-inspired flavor that’s sweet and salty. Garnish with sesame seeds and scallions before serving. Great for pairing with rice or roasted veggies.
17. Ginger Molasses Glazed Ham
Molasses and ginger create a deep, spiced sweetness. Add a touch of cinnamon and orange zest for balance. The glaze thickens beautifully while the ham stays tender. A rich, aromatic option for anyone who loves bold flavor.
18. Cider Mustard Ham
Mix apple cider, mustard, and maple syrup. Pour it over the ham and cook until glossy. The tangy sweetness complements the smoky flavor perfectly. Serve warm with roasted apples for a rustic touch.
19. Brown Sugar and Clove Ham
This old-fashioned favorite is as simple as it gets. Rub brown sugar all over the ham, insert whole cloves, and pour a little orange juice on top. The glaze caramelizes beautifully, giving every slice rich flavor.
20. Cranberry Orange Ham
Combine cranberry sauce, orange marmalade, and a pinch of cinnamon. Pour over the ham before cooking. The glaze adds color and a festive citrus twist. Great for serving with stuffing or mashed potatoes.
21. Cherry Balsamic Glazed Ham
Blend cherry preserves with balsamic vinegar and brown sugar. The mix creates a glossy glaze that’s sweet, tart, and rich. The balsamic adds depth while the cherries keep it festive. A beautiful addition to any holiday table.
22. Ginger Ale Glazed Ham
Pour ginger ale over your ham along with brown sugar and a dash of cinnamon. The soda adds mild sweetness and keeps the ham moist. It’s fuss-free, flavorful, and a hit with both kids and adults.
Conclusion
A good slow cooker ham turns holiday stress into ease. These recipes cover everything from classic brown sugar to creative fruit glazes — all with minimal prep. Just plug in, pour the glaze, and let your slow cooker work its magic. The result? Tender, flavorful ham that makes your home smell like Christmas comfort. Serve it with simple sides, and you’ve got the perfect holiday meal with time left to enjoy the day.
Hannah Collins is a passionate home cook and food storyteller who believes every recipe tells a little love story. At TastyWriter, she shares simple, delicious recipes made for real kitchens and busy days — from cozy comfort dishes to creative new favorites. When she’s not cooking, you’ll find her photographing food, testing family recipes, or sipping tea while dreaming up her next tasty idea.
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