Recipe

Slow Cooker Amish Christmas Ham

Written by admin

 

Slow Cooker Amish Christmas Ham

A sweet and tangy holiday favorite that tastes like Christmas in every bite.

This slow cooker Amish Christmas ham brings back memories of snowy December afternoons —
the kind where the house smells incredible and everyone gathers in the kitchen.
It’s a cherished family recipe that proves holiday cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be special.

What Makes This Recipe So Good

  • Perfectly balanced glaze: Brown sugar meets apple cider vinegar for sweet-tangy magic.
  • Warm holiday spices: Cloves, cinnamon, and ginger create that unmistakable Christmas aroma.
  • Set it and forget it: Let your slow cooker do all the work while you enjoy your day.

Key Ingredients

The Ham

Use a bone-in ham for the best flavor. A spiral-cut ham is ideal because it allows the glaze to seep into every slice.

The Glaze

  • Brown sugar – caramelizes beautifully and adds depth.
  • Apple cider vinegar – adds brightness and tang.
  • Warm spices – cinnamon, cloves, and ginger bring festive flavor.
  • Ground mustard – balances the sweetness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 6–8 hours (Low)

Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes

Servings: 8–10

Ingredients

For the Ham:

  • 1 (5–6 lb) bone-in ham, fully cooked
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon ground mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Optional Glaze Variations:

  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper
  • Orange juice instead of vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ham: Place ham flat-side down in slow cooker. Score the surface in a diamond pattern if not pre-cut.
  2. Make the Glaze: Combine brown sugar, vinegar, water, and mustard. Add spices and stir until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Cook: Pour glaze over the ham. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours. Baste occasionally if possible. The ham should reach 140°F.
  4. Finish & Serve: Remove ham and let rest 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with the cooking juices drizzled over top.
Notes:

  • Spiral-cut ham absorbs glaze best.
  • Each time you lift the lid, add about 20 minutes to the cook time.
  • Leftovers keep 4–5 days refrigerated or up to 2 months frozen.
Make It Your Own:

  • Add honey for extra sweetness.
  • Try maple syrup for rich depth.
  • Swap in orange juice for bright citrus notes.
  • Add a pinch of cayenne for gentle warmth.

Perfect For: Christmas dinner, Easter brunch, or cozy winter gatherings when you want a stress-free showstopper on the table.

 

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