Easter Ham has a special place at the springtime table, as both a celebration of the holiday and a nod to traditions that date back centuries. Ham became the meat of choice due to its springtime availability after winter preservation. Preparing it in a slow cooker ensures that this center-cut piece remains moist and tender, steeped in whatever glaze or seasonings you choose to impart it with. There’s something truly delightful about the way the aromas fill your home as family gathers around, making a slow cooker ham not just a meal but an event that's rich in nostalgia and brimming with flavor.
A classic Easter Ham pairs beautifully with a wide array of sides that both complements and contrasts its rich, savory profile. For a traditional Midwest Easter, you might serve your ham alongside sweet cornbread, buttery mashed potatoes with chives, or scalloped potatoes layered with cheese. Green beans almondine or roasted Brussels sprouts provide a crisp, verdant contrast, while a fresh spring greens salad tossed with vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint. And let's not forget the deviled eggs, a staple in many Easter feasts that complements the ham with their creamy, tangy flavor. For a sweet finish, a slice of pie would be homely—rhubarb or strawberry practically sings of spring.
Slow Cooker Easter Ham
Servings: 10-12
Ingredients- 1 bone-in fully cooked ham, about 8-10 pounds (spiral-sliced is fine)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup apple cider
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary) for garnish (optional)
Directions1. Begin by preparing your slow cooker by lining it with foil or a slow cooker liner for easier clean-up. Gently place the fully cooked ham inside the slow cooker cut side down.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, honey, apple cider, cinnamon, ground cloves, ground ginger, and minced garlic to create a thick glaze.
3. Rub the prepared glaze all over the ham, making sure to cover it thoroughly. If your ham is spiral sliced, make sure to work some of the glaze between the slices for added flavor.
4. Season the outside of the ham lightly with salt and black pepper.
5. Cover and cook on low for about 4-5 hours, or on high for 2-2.5 hours, until the ham is warmed through and the flavors have melded. Remember, the ham is already cooked, so we're simply warming it and infusing it with the glaze.
6. Once done, carefully transfer the ham to a serving platter, tent it with aluminum foil, and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve it to your eagerly awaiting guests.
Variations & Tips- While I've given you a basic glaze, feel free to play with the ingredients to suit your family's tastes. Maple syrup can be swapped for honey, or add a touch of Dijon mustard for a sharp, tangy contrast.
- For those who enjoy a bit of a kick, a few dashes of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper can make for a delightful surprise in the glaze.
- Leftovers, if you're lucky to have them, are divine in sandwiches or stirred into a savory ham and pea risotto. Make sure to save the bone—it's a treasure trove for flavor and perfect for soups or beans.
- Do keep an eye on the cooking time; although it's a forgiving method, overcooking can dry out the edges of the ham. Check for the desired temperature using a meat thermometer—140°F is ideal for serving.
- Transform your ham for a different holiday vibe by adding marmalade, cranberry sauce, or pineapple rings late in the cooking process for a delicious twist.
