Savory-Sweet Maple-Mustard Slow Cooker Ham

This easy and comforting Slow Cooker Ham is perfect for both holiday feasts and cozy family dinners. Preparing your ham in a slow cooker ensures it stays succulent and infused with flavor—while keeping it fuss-free for the cook! Below, you’ll find a simple yet crave-worthy recipe that will leave your guests swooning and your kitchen smelling heavenly.

Ingredients

• 1 (4–5 lb) fully cooked ham
• ½ cup pure maple syrup
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup water

Instructions

Before you begin, make sure to choose a ham that fits into your slow cooker. Trim away any excess fat, but leaving a thin layer will make the ham richer in flavor.

Start by mixing the maple syrup, honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper in a small bowl. This will form a glossy, aromatic glaze. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water, stirring until the ingredients come together.

Set your ham cut-side down in the slow cooker. Carefully pour the glaze over the ham, using a spoon or brush to coat it thoroughly. Drizzle the ¼ cup water along the sides of the slow cooker (not directly on the ham) to help create a gentle steam.

Cover and cook on low for about 4–5 hours, or until the ham is heated through and tender. During cooking, baste the ham with its juices at least once or twice to keep it moist and ensure the glaze infuses every inch of the meat.

When the ham is done, transfer it to a serving platter and tent it with foil for about 10 minutes to let the juices redistribute. If you’d like a thicker glaze, simmer the cooking liquid in a small saucepan over medium heat until it reduces to a luxuriously sticky consistency. Drizzle over the ham before carving.

This recipe is a dream come true for anyone who appreciates ultra-tender, succulent ham without spending hours in the kitchen. The subtle sweetness from maple syrup and honey pairs beautifully with the tangy Dijon, making it a crowd-pleasing choice for holiday get-togethers or Sunday suppers. If you’re watching sugar intake, swap out some of the sweeteners for a sugar-free syrup or a smaller amount of brown sugar.

Feel free to add a little ground ginger, a slice of orange, or your favorite herbs to change things up. It’s a versatile, healthy-ish (in moderation) centerpiece that any home cook can master!