Picture this: It’s Christmas morning. You’re in pajamas, sipping coffee, and your kitchen smells like a holiday dream—without you lifting a finger. How?
A slow cooker and an Amish-inspired ham recipe that does all the work for you. No frantic basting, no oven disasters, just juicy, sweet, smoky perfection. This isn’t just ham; it’s your ticket to holiday hero status.
And the best part? You’ll have time to actually enjoy the day instead of sweating over a stove. Who knew laziness could taste this good?
Why This Recipe Slaps
Amish Christmas ham isn’t your average dry, sad holiday meat.
The slow cooker keeps it unbelievably moist, while the glaze—a mix of brown sugar, mustard, and spices—caramelizes into sticky, sweet magic. The ham melts in your mouth, and the flavor? Deep, smoky, and just the right amount of sweetness.
Plus, it’s nearly impossible to mess up. Even if your cooking skills peak at microwaving leftovers, this recipe will make you look like a pro.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 (7-10 lb) fully cooked bone-in ham (spiral-cut works, but uncut is better for moisture)
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed, because we’re not monsters)
- 1/2 cup honey (or maple syrup if you’re feeling fancy)
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard (yellow mustard in a pinch, but Dijon’s the MVP)
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice (or apple juice if you’re out)
- 1 tsp ground cloves (don’t skip—this is the secret weapon)
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (because Christmas)
Step-by-Step Instructions (AKA How to Look Like a Genius)
- Prep the ham: If it’s spiral-cut, great. If not, score the surface in a diamond pattern.This lets the glaze seep in like a flavor bomb.
- Mix the glaze: Whisk brown sugar, honey, mustard, pineapple juice, cloves, and cinnamon in a bowl. Taste it. Try not to drink it.
- Slow cooker setup: Place the ham in the slow cooker, flat side down.Pour half the glaze over it, making sure it drips into the cuts.
- Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours. Baste with the remaining glaze every hour. Yes, this is the only work you’ll do.
- Finish strong: Once done, let it rest for 10 minutes.Then, slice and watch your family lose their minds.
Storage: Because Leftovers Are the Best Part
Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze slices with parchment paper between them—they’ll keep for 2-3 months. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of water to keep it moist, or toss it in a pan for crispy edges.
Pro tip: Use leftovers in omelets, sandwiches, or eat it cold straight from the fridge at 2 AM. No judgment.
Why This Recipe Is a Holiday Game-Changer
First, it’s hands-off. No babysitting a finicky oven.
Second, the slow cooker guarantees perfect moisture—no more Sahara-dry ham. Third, the glaze doubles as a sauce, so you’re winning on flavor and presentation. And let’s be real: freeing up oven space for pies and casseroles?
Priceless.
Common Mistakes to Avoid (Unless You Like Disappointment)
- Using a too-big ham: Your slow cooker isn’t a TARDIS. If the ham doesn’t fit, it won’t cook evenly.
- Skipping the basting: Laziness has limits. Baste for maximum flavor.
- Overcooking: Even a slow cooker can turn ham into rubber.Stick to 5 hours max.
- Forgetting to rest: Slicing too soon = juice everywhere. Patience, grasshopper.
Alternatives for the Rebellious Cook
No brown sugar? Use maple syrup or even molasses.
Not a fan of cloves? Swap in allspice or nutmeg. Vegetarian?
LOL, this is a ham recipe—maybe try a portobello mushroom? (But seriously, it won’t be the same.) For a spicy kick, add a dash of cayenne to the glaze. Want it extra fruity? Throw in some crushed pineapple or orange zest.
FAQs: Your Burning Questions, Answered
Can I use a boneless ham?
Sure, but bone-in adds more flavor and stays juicier.
Boneless works in a pinch, but check it earlier—it cooks faster.
What if my slow cooker runs hot?
Check the ham at 3.5 hours. Some slow cookers are overachievers. If it’s drying out, dial back the time.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely.
Cook it the day before, slice it, and reheat gently in the oven with a foil cover. Add a splash of juice to keep it moist.
Why pineapple juice?
It adds acidity and sweetness that balances the glaze. Apple juice works, but pineapple’s the OG here.
Can I double the glaze?
Do you like flavor?
Then yes. Double it, drown the ham in it, and save extra for dipping. You’re welcome.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Amish Christmas Ham is the ultimate cheat code for holiday cooking.
Minimal effort, maximum payoff, and a guarantee that your guests will ask for the recipe. So kick back, enjoy your coffee, and let the slow cooker do the heavy lifting. After all, ’tis the season to be lazy—and delicious.
