Slow Cooker Ham Steaks with Cinnamon Apples Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a more intense flavor, you can lightly sear the ham steak in a hot skillet for one minute per side before placing it into the slow cooker. This adds a slight Maillard reaction to the exterior, which deepens the overall flavor profile. If you prefer a thicker glaze, you can whisk in a half-teaspoon of cornstarch with the apple juice and butter before pouring it into the cooker, which will naturally thicken the sauce as it heats.

If you find the ham is particularly salty, soak the steak in cold water for 30 minutes, pat it dry, and then proceed with the recipe. This helps draw out excess sodium without compromising the flavor. When serving, consider garnishing with a small amount of fresh thyme to provide a herbaceous contrast to the sweetness of the apples and brown sugar. This small addition can make a significant difference in the balance of the final dish.

Variations

• Savory Herb Infusion: Add a tablespoon of fresh chopped rosemary or thyme to the cinnamon sugar mixture. The earthy herbs provide a sophisticated contrast to the sweetness of the apples and brown sugar.
• Spicy Apple Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or a teaspoon of hot sauce into the apple juice and butter mixture. This adds a subtle heat that cuts through the richness of the ham.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the food is refrigerated within 2 hours of cooking.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat in a microwave-safe dish on medium power until heated through, or in a covered pan over low heat with a splash of apple juice.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain moisture. Ensure the ham and apples are cooled to room temperature within two hours of cooking before placing them in the refrigerator. Properly stored, the dish will remain flavorful for up to three days.

When reheating, do so gently to avoid toughening the ham. Keep the sauce with the meat to ensure it stays succulent during the reheating process, as the sugars and fats provide essential moisture.

You can prepare the apple wedges and the cinnamon-sugar mixture a day in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. The ham can also be portioned and kept cold until you are ready to assemble the dish.

This makes the final assembly take less than two minutes. While you can assemble the entire dish in the insert ahead of time, keep it in the refrigerator and allow it to sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before turning the slow cooker on.

Serving ideas

Serve the ham steak warm, ideally with the apple wedges and sauce spooned generously over the top. This dish pairs exceptionally well with simple side dishes that can soak up the flavorful glaze, such as mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, or a side of steamed green beans.

The contrast between the savory, salty ham and the sweet, spiced apples makes it a versatile main course that fits well for both casual family dinners and more organized holiday gatherings.

When plating, use a wide spatula to transfer the ham steak to ensure it stays intact, especially if it has become very tender. Arrange the apple wedges artfully on top of the ham and drizzle the remaining sauce from the slow cooker over the entire plate.

This ensures that every bite has the perfect balance of meat, fruit, and glaze. Providing extra sauce on the side is a thoughtful touch for those who enjoy a more generous coating on their side dishes.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Ham Steaks with Cinnamon Apples

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

Ingredients

• 2 lb bone-in ham steak
• 2 large red apples, sliced into wedges
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup apple juice
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

1. Place the thick bone-in ham steak into the bottom of the slow cooker insert. Ensure it lies flat to allow even heat distribution during the cooking process.
2. Arrange the red apple wedges in an overlapping pattern directly on top of the ham steak. This allows the juices from the apples to permeate the meat while they soften.
3. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the fanned apple wedges, ensuring every piece is lightly coated.
4. Whisk together the apple juice and melted butter. Pour the mixture over the apples and ham. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, or until the ham reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Let the meat rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Contains: milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

380

Protein

32 g

Carbohydrates

28 g

Fat

16 g

Fiber

2.5 g

Sugar

22 g

Sodium

1200 mg

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