Imagine a succulent ham, dripping with a sweet and sticky glaze that fills your home with the irresistible aroma of maple and brown sugar. The "Crock Pot Maple Brown Sugar Ham" is not just a dish; it's the centerpiece of your next family gathering or holiday feast. With minimal prep time and a hands-off cooking method, this recipe is perfect for busy cooks who still want to impress their guests. Dive into this mouthwatering journey and discover how easy it is to create a show-stopping ham that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked ham (5-7 lbs)
- 1 cup maple syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions
- Remove the ham from its packaging and pat dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
- If the ham has a thick layer of fat, score the surface in a diamond pattern using a sharp knife, creating shallow cuts about 1/4 inch deep. This helps the glaze penetrate and caramelize.
- Place the ham directly into the crock pot, flat side down. Ensure the ham fits comfortably without being squeezed.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine maple syrup, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- Pour the maple brown sugar glaze evenly over the ham, making sure to cover all exposed surfaces, including into the scored cuts.
- Cover the crock pot with its lid and set to low heat setting.
- Cook the ham for 5-6 hours, basting with the accumulated glaze every 1-2 hours to enhance flavor and prevent drying.
- Check the internal temperature of the ham using a meat thermometer. It should reach at least 140°F (60°C) for optimal safety and warmth.
- Once done, carefully remove the ham from the crock pot and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing.
- Optional: For a more caramelized finish, transfer the ham to a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Slice the ham and serve warm, drizzling any remaining glaze from the crock pot over the meat.
Tips
- Choose the Right Ham: Opt for a fully cooked ham between 5 to 7 pounds for the best results. This size fits perfectly in most crock pots and ensures even cooking.
- Score the Fat: If your ham has a thick layer of fat, scoring it in a diamond pattern allows the glaze to seep in and caramelize beautifully, enhancing the flavor.
- Baste for Flavor: Don’t forget to baste the ham with the accumulated glaze every 1-2 hours. This step is crucial for keeping the meat juicy and infusing it with that delicious maple-brown sugar flavor.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 140°F (60°C). This guarantees that your ham is safe to eat and perfectly warmed through.
- Optional Broil: For an extra touch of elegance, broil the ham for a few minutes after cooking to achieve a caramelized crust. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!
- Serve with Style: When ready to serve, slice the ham and drizzle any remaining glaze from the crock pot over the slices for an extra burst of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 90mg
