Let’s be honest, the holidays should be about connection, not kitchen chaos.

This slow cooker ham is your secret weapon for a stunning centerpiece that practically cooks itself.

Why Your Slow Cooker is a Ham's Best Friend

There's a special kind of magic that happens when a ham settles into a slow cooker.

The gentle, steady heat coaxes out incredible tenderness, while the sealed environment locks in every drop of moisture.

Ingredients Needed for the Recipe

• Ham (7-10 pounds): The star of the show, a fully cooked bone-in ham yields the most succulent, flavorful results.
• Brown Sugar (1 1/2 cups): Creates a sweet, caramelized foundation and helps form a beautifully sticky glaze.
• Honey (1 cup): Adds a floral sweetness and helps the gorgeous glaze cling to every slice.
• Pineapple Juice (1 1/2 cups): Its subtle acidity perfectly cuts through the richness of the ham, adding a bright note.
• Fresh Herbs (optional): A sprig of rosemary or sage makes for a beautiful, aromatic garnish on your serving platter.

How to make Slow Cooker Ham?

Step 1 - PREPARE THE SWEET BASE

Take a moment to sprinkle that brown sugar evenly across the bottom of your slow cooker.

This isn't just for sweetness; it creates a delicious foundation that the ham will rest on, infusing it from the bottom up.

Step 2 - NESTLE THE HAM IN

Carefully place your ham right on top of the brown sugar, cut side down.

This position is key, as it allows the sweet flavors to travel up through the meat, and it helps the ham stay wonderfully juicy.

Step 3 - ADD THE GLAZE LIQUIDS

Now, for the simple alchemy. Drizzle the honey generously over the ham, watching it cascade down the sides.

Follow it up with the pineapple juice, which will mingle with the honey and brown sugar to create the cooking liquid and glaze.

Step 4 - THE WAITING GAME

Pop the lid on, set it to low, and walk away for about 6 hours. That's it.

Your job is done, and the slow cooker’s gentle heat will transform this into something truly special.

Step 5 - REST AND SERVE

Once the ham is fall-apart tender and has reached an internal temperature of 140°F, transfer it to a serving platter.

Don't forget to ladle some of that incredible cooking juice over the top before you bring it to the table.

The Best Ham for the Job

While a bone-in shank or butt portion is highly recommended for its superior flavor and moisture, don't stress if your store has something different.

Boneless, spiral-sliced, or even a smaller ham will all work beautifully in this forgiving method.

Tips

• If your ham is a tight squeeze, don't force the lid. Just seal the top tightly with heavy-duty foil instead.
• Feel free to swap the pineapple juice for apple cider or orange juice for a different, yet equally delicious, flavor profile.
• For a truly show-stopping presentation, tuck fresh herbs and even some orange slices around the ham on the platter.

Creative Flavor Twists

If you're feeling adventurous, this recipe is a fantastic canvas for your own ideas.

Stir a tablespoon of Dijon mustard into the glaze for a sweet and savory kick, or add a pinch of cloves for a warm, spiced aroma.

Storing Your Leftover Masterpiece

Once completely cooled, store your ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

It will stay perfectly delicious for up to five days, ready for sandwiches, soups, or a quick reheated plate.

This method truly simplifies one of the most cherished holiday traditions.

It frees you up to enjoy the day, all while delivering a meal that feels anything but simple.