Slow Cooker Copycat Honey Baked Ham

Slow Cooker Copycat Honey Baked Ham: A Culinary Masterpiece

For many, the arrival of Honey Baked Ham’s catalog is a harbinger of holiday cheer. The glossy images of glistening, honey-glazed hams evoke a sense of warmth and festive indulgence. But the price tag can often dampen the enthusiasm. This article unveils the secret to recreating the magic of Honey Baked Ham right in your own kitchen, significantly reducing the cost and offering unparalleled convenience. Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds singing and your wallet happy!

Why Make Your Own Honey Baked Ham?

The allure of a Honey Baked Ham is undeniable, but the cost and logistical challenges can be prohibitive. Ordering ahead, traveling to a specific location, and dealing with shipping and thawing can be a considerable undertaking. Creating your own copycat version at home offers several compelling advantages:

Cost Savings

Homemade Honey Baked Ham is significantly cheaper. Purchasing a spiral-sliced ham from your local grocery store and crafting your own glaze can cut the cost by approximately half, making this festive delicacy accessible to a wider audience.

Convenience

Forget about pre-ordering and scheduling pickups. This recipe offers ultimate convenience. You can prepare your ham whenever the craving strikes, eliminating the hassle of planning and logistics associated with purchasing from a specialty store.

Customization

Crafting your own ham allows for complete customization. Adjust the glaze to your liking, experiment with different spices, and tailor the ham to your family’s unique preferences. The possibilities are endless!

The Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Honey Baked Ham Perfection

This recipe utilizes the slow cooker for maximum ease and flavor infusion. The result is a succulent, tender ham with a perfectly caramelized, honey-glazed crust, mirroring the iconic Honey Baked Ham experience.

Ingredients

1 bone-in spiral-sliced ham (6 to 8 lbs)
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1/4 cup honey
1 cup light brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt

Preparation

This method achieves that irresistible honey-crusted edge, providing a taste sensation that rivals the best commercial hams. Follow these simple steps to culinary success:

Step 1: Slow Cooker Magic

Trim any excess fat from the ham and place it in your slow cooker. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter and honey. Generously brush this mixture over the entire ham, ensuring that it penetrates deep into the spiral-cut slices. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours, allowing the ham to absorb the sweet and savory flavors.

Step 2: Oven Broiling for Caramelization

Preheat your oven’s broiler to high. Line a roasting pan with aluminum foil. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, garlic powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, paprika, and salt. Press half of this mixture firmly onto the top of the ham. Place the ham in the preheated oven and broil for approximately 3 minutes, or until the sugar mixture begins to bubble and caramelize. Remove from the oven.

Step 3: The Glaze – The Secret Weapon

In a small saucepan, combine the remaining brown sugar mixture with 3 tablespoons of the liquid from the slow cooker (or substitute with water). Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Let it boil for about 1 minute. Remove from heat.

Step 4: The Final Touch

Brush the fragrant glaze generously over the entire ham. Return the ham to the broiler for another 1-2 minutes, just to set the glaze and achieve that signature glossy finish. Remove from the oven and let the ham rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

Serve your homemade Honey Baked Ham with all your favorite holiday sides. Mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, roasted sweet potatoes – the possibilities are endless. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The ham’s flavor actually intensifies as it rests, making it even more delicious the next day.

Tips and Variations

Feel free to experiment with the glaze. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick or substitute bourbon for a touch of sophistication. You can also adjust the cooking time depending on the size of your ham. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure that the ham reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for food safety.

Conclusion: A Festive Feast Made Easy

This slow cooker copycat Honey Baked Ham recipe offers a delicious and affordable alternative to purchasing a commercially prepared ham. The convenience, customization options, and superior taste make it a winner for holiday gatherings or any special occasion. Impress your family and friends with this culinary masterpiece – the ultimate testament to your kitchen skills and festive spirit!