Description
Indulge in the rich, festive flavors of this Slow Cooker Amish Christmas Ham, a recipe that encapsulates the warmth and magic of the holiday season. Tender, juicy ham is slow-cooked in a sweet and tangy glaze infused with warm spices, creating a dish that’s both traditional and irresistible. Perfect for Christmas dinners and holiday gatherings, this recipe is easy to prepare and guarantees a memorable meal.
Who is This Recipe For?
This recipe is ideal for:
- Home cooks who want a no-fuss yet impressive holiday centerpiece.
- Fans of classic Christmas flavors like cloves, cinnamon, and brown sugar.
- Those seeking a slow cooker recipe that saves oven space during busy holiday cooking.
- Anyone who loves tender, flavorful ham with minimal prep time.
Why It’s Great
- Effortless Cooking: Let your slow cooker do all the work while you focus on other holiday tasks.
- Flavorful Glaze: The combination of brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and spices creates a perfectly balanced, festive glaze.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the glaze with honey, maple syrup, or orange zest for a unique twist.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Serves 8-10 people, making it ideal for Christmas dinner or family meals.
Ingredients
For the Ham:
- 1 (5-6 pound) bone-in ham, fully cooked
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon ground mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Optional Glaze Variations:
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- Pinch of cayenne pepper for subtle heat
- 1/2 cup orange juice in place of vinegar
- 1 tablespoon orange zest for a citrusy kick
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker (large enough for a 5-6 pound ham)
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon for stirring
- Meat thermometer (optional but recommended)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ham
- Place the ham in the slow cooker flat side down to keep it juicy.
- If your ham isn’t pre-cut, score the surface in a diamond pattern to help the glaze seep in.
Step 2: Make the Glaze
- In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, water, and ground mustard.
- Add cloves, cinnamon, and ginger. Stir until the sugar starts to dissolve.
Step 3: Cook the Ham
- Pour the prepared glaze evenly over the ham.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Baste occasionally, if possible, to ensure the glaze coats the ham evenly.
- The ham is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
- Carefully remove the ham from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Slice and serve with the cooking juices as a sauce.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 4-5 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
FAQ
Can I use a boneless ham?
Yes, but a bone-in ham tends to be more flavorful and juicy.
What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?
You can substitute with orange juice or even white vinegar with a splash of honey.
How do I prevent the ham from drying out?
Cooking the ham flat side down and keeping the lid on during cooking helps retain moisture. Avoid lifting the lid too often.
What can I serve this ham with?
Pair it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete holiday meal.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Amish Christmas Ham is a holiday recipe worth cherishing. With its tender texture and sweet, tangy glaze, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Whether for Christmas dinner or a cozy Sunday meal, this dish promises to fill your home with the delightful aromas of the season. Try it today and let the slow cooker bring the magic of Amish cooking to your table!
