Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed Ham Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To achieve an even deeper flavor, you can score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern before applying the apple butter. This creates more surface area for the glaze to cling to and allows the spices to penetrate deeper into the meat.

If you have extra time, you can baste the ham once halfway through the cooking time to ensure the glaze is evenly distributed across all sides.

If you find that the glaze is too thin at the end of the cooking time, remove the ham and set it on a serving platter. Pour the remaining liquid into a small saucepan and simmer over medium-high heat on the stovetop until it reduces to your desired consistency.

This concentrated syrup can then be drizzled over the carved ham slices just before serving to add an extra punch of flavor and shine.

Variations

• Savory Mustard Kick: Stir two tablespoons of Dijon mustard into the apple butter before spreading it over the ham. The tanginess of the mustard cuts through the sweetness of the apples, creating a sophisticated, complex flavor profile that pairs exceptionally well with pork.
• Bourbon Infused Glaze: Add two tablespoons of bourbon to the apple cider before pouring it into the slow cooker. The alcohol will cook off, leaving behind a deep, oaky sweetness that enhances the spices and gives the ham a richer, more nuanced finish suitable for adult gatherings.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze in portions for up to 2 months.

Reheat

Reheat gently in a covered dish with a splash of water or cider at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through.

Store any leftover ham in an airtight container to maintain moisture. Ensure the ham has cooled to room temperature for no longer than two hours before placing it in the refrigerator. Properly stored leftovers can be enjoyed for up to three or four days. When storing, try to keep the meat in larger pieces rather than pre-slicing it to prevent it from drying out in the fridge.

This dish is excellent for making ahead of time. You can prepare the glaze and assemble the ham in the slow cooker insert, cover it, and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Simply bring the insert to room temperature for 30 minutes before placing it in the slow cooker base to start the cooking process, adding about 30 minutes to the total time.

Serving ideas

Serve the ham on a warm platter to help maintain its temperature during the meal. Because this dish is quite flavorful, it pairs beautifully with neutral side dishes such as roasted root vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette.

The contrast between the sweet, spiced glaze and savory sides makes for a balanced and satisfying dining experience.

For a festive presentation, garnish the platter with fresh apple slices, sprigs of rosemary, or whole cinnamon sticks. Carve the ham into thin slices right at the table to showcase the glossy, glazed exterior.

Providing a small bowl of the reduced cooking juices on the side allows guests to add extra moisture and flavor to their servings according to their individual preferences.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed Ham

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

Ingredients

• 1 whole spiral-sliced ham, about 8-10 lbs
• 1 cup spiced apple butter
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1 cup apple cider

Instructions

1. Place the spiral-sliced ham into the bottom of the slow cooker insert. Ensure the ham is centered so the glaze can distribute evenly during the cooking process.
2. Spread the spiced apple butter over the top and sides of the ham. Sprinkle the ground cinnamon and ground cloves evenly over the apple butter layer. Pour the apple cider carefully around the base of the ham to create the braising liquid.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4 hours until the ham is heated through and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once cooked, carefully remove the ham to a platter, letting it rest for at least 10 minutes before carving.

Contains: sulfites

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

320

Protein

28 g

Carbohydrates

22 g

Fat

12 g

Fiber

1.5 g

Sugar

18 g

Sodium

1150 mg

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