Easy Slow Cooker Cola Glazed Ham Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a more intense flavor, you can score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern before applying the brown sugar and cloves. This allows the glaze to seep deeper into the meat and creates a beautiful presentation. Use a sharp knife to make shallow cuts, being careful not to cut too deeply into the meat, which helps the sugar mixture adhere better during the cooking process.

If you prefer a thicker glaze, you can remove the ham once it is cooked and continue to simmer the remaining liquid in the slow cooker on the high setting with the lid off for about 15 to 20 minutes. This will reduce the liquid into a syrupy consistency that can be drizzled over the ham slices before serving. This extra step ensures that every serving is coated in the sweet, flavorful reduction.

Variations

• Spicy Cola Ham: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the brown sugar rub for a subtle, spicy kick that cuts through the sweetness of the cola glaze.
• Citrus Infused Ham: Tuck a few slices of fresh orange or lemon alongside the ham in the slow cooker to add a bright, citrusy note to the final glaze.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Allow leftovers to cool for no more than 2 hours before refrigerating.

Freezer

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat slices gently in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of water or broth to keep them moist, or warm in a low oven until heated through.

Store any leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its moisture. It is best to slice the ham before storing it so it is ready for quick meals, but keeping it in larger chunks can also help prevent it from drying out.

Ensure the container is sealed tightly to prevent the meat from absorbing other odors in the fridge. Use within three to four days for the best quality and flavor.

You can prepare the ham for the slow cooker ahead of time by rubbing it with the sugar and spices and keeping it in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook.

However, do not add the cola until you are actually starting the slow cooker, as the liquid will cause the sugar to dissolve prematurely. This simple preparation step saves time on the day of cooking, allowing you to simply turn on the slow cooker when needed.

Serving ideas

Serve the ham slices on a warmed platter to ensure they stay hot while being passed around the table. Drizzle any remaining glaze from the slow cooker over the slices just before serving to add extra shine and flavor.

This ham pairs beautifully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad, which provide a nice contrast to the richness of the sweet, caramelized glaze.

Consider arranging the ham slices in an overlapping pattern on the platter for an elegant presentation that highlights the glossy glaze. You can garnish the platter with fresh herbs or additional spices to enhance the visual appeal.

Ensure you provide a carving knife if serving the ham in a large piece, or pre-slice it for easy serving during larger gatherings where efficiency is key to a smooth dining experience.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Easy Slow Cooker Cola Glazed Ham

Prep 5 minCook 4 hRest 10 minTotal 4 h 15 minServes 8

Ingredients

• 3 lb boneless ham
• 1 cup dark brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cloves
• 12 oz cola

Instructions

1. Place the boneless ham into the base of the slow cooker. Evenly rub the dark brown sugar over the entire top and sides of the ham to ensure a thorough coating.
2. Sprinkle the ground cloves evenly over the sugar-coated ham. Pour the cola into the slow cooker, directing it around the base of the ham rather than directly over the top to keep the sugar coating intact.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours until the ham reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Remove the ham, slice, and serve immediately after resting for at least 3 minutes.

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

320

Protein

22 g

Carbohydrates

35 g

Fat

9 g

Fiber

0 g

Sugar

32 g

Sodium

1100 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.