Description

There's something truly special about honey baked ham that makes it a standout at any festive gathering. While store-bought versions of this classic dish can be delicious, they often come with a hefty price tag. Making honey baked ham at home not only saves you money but also lets you tailor the flavors to your exact liking. This recipe provides a delectable balance of sweetness and savory, with a perfectly caramelized crust that’s sure to impress your guests. With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create a mouthwatering ham that rivals any store-bought version.

Ingredients

• 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (7-10 lbs)
• 1 cup honey
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Preparation Method

Prepare the Ham: Start by removing the ham from its packaging and placing it in the slow cooker. If the ham has a thick layer of fat, you may want to trim it slightly, leaving a thin layer to help keep the ham moist.

Make the Glaze: In a medium bowl, combine the honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Glaze the Ham: Pour the glaze over the ham, making sure it is evenly coated. Use a brush or spoon to spread the glaze over all exposed surfaces of the ham.

Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook the ham on low for 6-8 hours, or until the ham is heated through and tender. Baste the ham with the glaze occasionally during cooking to enhance the flavor.

Caramelize the Glaze (Optional): For a caramelized finish, transfer the ham to a roasting pan after cooking. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and roast the ham for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the glaze is bubbly and caramelized. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Serve: Remove the ham from the oven or slow cooker and let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful ham.

Tips and Conclusion

To enhance the flavor of your honey baked ham, consider adding a splash of bourbon or whiskey to the glaze mixture. The alcohol will cook off, leaving behind a subtle depth of flavor that complements the sweetness of the honey and the tanginess of the mustard. Additionally, you can garnish the ham with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra touch of elegance.

Making honey baked ham at home is a rewarding experience that brings a deliciously festive touch to your meals. This recipe ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor, combining the rich sweetness of honey with the warm spices of cinnamon and ginger. Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast or simply enjoying a special family dinner, this homemade version of honey baked ham is sure to become a cherished favorite. With minimal effort and a slow cooker, you can achieve a gourmet result that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the process, and savor the delightful taste of a truly homemade classic.