Introduction
Picture this: It’s a cozy winter evening, warm light spilling from your kitchen window, the scent of cinnamon and cloves dancing through the air. As snow gently blankets the world outside, inside, your family gathers around the table, laughter and love filling each corner of your home. This is the magic of the holidays, and there’s nothing quite like a festive meal to warm our hearts. Enter the Slow Cooker Amish Christmas Ham. This indulgent and comforting dish is not only easy to prepare but also a true family favorite, bringing everyone together for a special meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s something incredibly heartwarming about gathering around the table for a meal that feels like a hug from the inside out. Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall head over heels for this Slow Cooker Amish Christmas Ham:
- Comforting Flavor: The combination of sweet and savory flavors creates a dish that’s richly satisfying.
- Easy Recipe: Just set it and forget it! Your slow cooker does all the hard work for you.
- Family-Friendly: This recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
- Festive Meal: Perfect for holiday gatherings, this ham is the star of the show.
- Leftover Love: Great for sandwiches, salads, or even breakfast the next day!
Ingredients
To create this delicious ham, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Bone-in ham – The centerpiece of your meal; opt for a pre-cooked ham for ease.
- Brown sugar – Adds a sweet caramelized crust that everyone loves.
- Honey – Brings a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory ham.
- Dijon mustard – Adds a touch of tanginess to balance out the sweetness.
- Apple cider vinegar – Infuses a subtle tartness and depth of flavor.
- Cloves – Aromatic and warm, cloves bring an herbal note that enhances the ham.
Substitutions: You can use maple syrup in place of honey for a different sweetness profile or opt for a sugar substitute for a healthier option.
Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low
- Total Time: 6-8 hours and 15 minutes
This holiday masterpiece is worth every minute, as your slow cooker will be working its magic while you enjoy precious moments with loved ones.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Ham: Remove the ham from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps the glaze adhere better.
- Make the Glaze: In a bowl, combine brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Mix until smooth.
- Score the Ham: Use a sharp knife to score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, which allows the glaze to seep into the meat.
- Glaze the Ham: Rub the glaze all over the ham, ensuring that it’s generously coated.
- Place in Slow Cooker: Position the ham in the slow cooker, and pour any leftover glaze on top.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, depending on the size of your ham. The intoxicating aroma will fill your kitchen!
- Serve: Once done, slice the ham and serve it warm, letting the beautiful juices drip onto your plate.
Tips and Variations
- Add Fruit: Toss in some sliced apples or pineapple rings for a fruity twist.
- Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for added depth.
- Spices: A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the holiday feel of the dish.
You can make this recipe truly yours by adding personal touches that reflect your family’s tastes.
Serving Suggestions
Imagine this: thick, juicy slices of Slow Cooker Amish Christmas Ham served alongside creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, and warm, buttery rolls. Pair it with a chilled glass of apple cider or a festive cranberry-infused drink, creating the perfect festive atmosphere. This meal isn’t just about delicious food; it’s about connection, storytelling, and the love shared around the table.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover ham? No problem! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze sliced ham for future quick dinners. Reheating is as simple as popping it in the microwave or oven—just add a splash of broth to keep it juicy!
Pro Tips from the Kitchen
- Leftover Magic: Use leftover ham in breakfast scrambles or sandwiches—it’s just as delicious the next day!
- Check the Temperature: Ensure the internal temperature reaches 140°F for safe enjoyment.
- Double the Glaze: Make extra glaze for dipping or drizzling over side dishes for added flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of ham?
A: Absolutely! A boneless or spiral-cut ham will work beautifully as well.
Q: Can I cook this ham on high instead of low?
A: Yes! Cooking on high will reduce the time to about 3-4 hours, though low and slow is always best for flavor.
Q: Can I prepare this the night before?
A: Yes! You can prepare the ham and glaze the night before and refrigerate it. Just place it in the slow cooker in the morning.
Conclusion
Gathering around the table to savor the flavors of Slow Cooker Amish Christmas Ham is more than just a meal; it’s an opportunity to create lasting memories. This indulgent yet easy recipe encapsulates the spirit of the season—warmth, connection, and the joy of sharing. So, as you plan your holiday celebrations, I encourage you to try this recipe, share it with your loved ones, and make it a cherished part of your family tradition. Let the spirit of love and togetherness fill your kitchen this holiday season!
Contents
Slow Cooker Amish Christmas Ham
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 piece Bone-in ham Opt for a pre-cooked ham for ease.
- 1 cup Brown sugar Adds a sweet caramelized crust.
- 1/2 cup Honey Natural sweetness paired with ham.
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard For tanginess.
- 1/4 cup Apple cider vinegar Infuses tartness and depth.
- 5 whole Cloves Aromatic and enhances flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Remove the ham from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, combine brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Mix until smooth.
- Use a sharp knife to score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern.
- Rub the glaze all over the ham, ensuring it is generously coated.
- Position the ham in the slow cooker, and pour any leftover glaze on top.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, depending on the size of your ham.
- Once done, slice the ham and serve it warm.
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.
📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest