Slow Cooker Spiral Ham with Apricot-Dijon Glaze Recipe
Introduction
This slow cooker spiral ham with apricot-Dijon glaze is a simple yet flavorful way to prepare a classic holiday favorite. The sweet and tangy glaze perfectly complements the smoky, tender ham, making it an effortless centerpiece for any gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 6 to 7 pound Hickory smoked fully cooked spiral cut ham
- 5 tablespoons apricot preserves
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Step 1: Whisk together 4 tablespoons of apricot preserves and 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard in a small bowl to make the glaze.
- Step 2: Place the ham in a 6-quart or larger slow cooker, positioning it so the lid fits securely—turn the ham on its side if needed.
- Step 3: Brush the glaze evenly over the ham. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours.
- Step 4: During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the remaining tablespoon of apricot preserves over the ham for extra shine and flavor.
Tips & Variations
- Use orange marmalade instead of apricot preserves for a citrus twist.
- Add a splash of apple cider vinegar to the glaze for a sharper tang.
- For a firmer crust, transfer the ham to a baking dish after slow cooking and broil for 3-5 minutes.
Storage
Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to maintain moisture—adding a bit of water or glaze helps keep it juicy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of ham?
Yes, this recipe works best with fully cooked spiral-cut hams, but you can use other fully cooked hams. Adjust cooking time as needed to ensure the ham is heated through.
Do I need to add liquid to the slow cooker?
No additional liquid is needed because the ham releases moisture during cooking, and the glaze keeps it moist and flavorful.
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Slow Cooker Spiral Ham with Apricot-Dijon Glaze Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 5 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 10 to 12 servings 1x
Description
This Slow Cooker Spiral Ham with Apricot-Dijon Glaze is an effortless and flavorful holiday or weekend meal. The fully cooked, hickory smoked spiral ham is gently warmed in a slow cooker and basted with a sweet and tangy apricot-Dijon glaze, resulting in tender, juicy slices infused with a perfect balance of sweetness and mustard zest.
Ingredients
Ham
- 1 (6 to 7 pound) Hickory smoked fully cooked spiral cut ham
Apricot-Dijon Glaze
- 5 tablespoons apricot preserves
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together 4 tablespoons of apricot preserves and 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard until smooth and well combined.
- Prepare the slow cooker: Place the spiral ham inside a 6-quart or larger slow cooker. Position the ham so that the lid can fit securely; if the ham is too large, it may be necessary to turn it on its side.
- Apply the glaze: Brush the apricot-Dijon glaze evenly all over the ham’s surface, ensuring each spiral slice gets some coating.
- Slow cook the ham: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook the ham on the LOW setting for 4 to 5 hours, allowing it to warm thoroughly and absorb the glaze flavor.
- Glaze the ham again: About 30 minutes before the end of cooking, brush the remaining 1 tablespoon of apricot preserves over the ham to add a final glossy, sweet layer.
- Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the ham and slice along the spiral cuts for serving. Enjoy warm.
Notes
- Make sure the slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the ham; turning it sideways may be necessary.
- The ham is fully cooked, so the slow cooker is used to heat and infuse the glaze, not for raw cooking.
- You can substitute apricot preserves with other fruit preserves like peach or orange marmalade for a different flavor twist.
- Leftover ham can be refrigerated, tightly wrapped, for up to 5 days or frozen for longer storage.
- For a crustier texture, finish the glazed ham under a broiler for 3-5 minutes after slow cooking, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 to 5 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: slow cooker ham, spiral ham, apricot glaze, Dijon mustard ham, holiday ham, easy ham recipe, crockpot ham
