Slow Cooker Amish Christmas Ham

by

The holiday season is synonymous with family gatherings and festive meals, and this Slow Cooker Amish Christmas Ham has become a cherished tradition in many homes. Passed down through generations, this recipe embodies the simplicity and warmth of Amish cooking, offering a deliciously tender ham that cooks effortlessly in a slow cooker. What’s wonderful about this dish is that it frees up your time so you can focus on spending time with loved ones, decorating the tree, or even finishing up some last-minute tasks like gift wrapping. The rich, savory glaze infused with brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and warm spices brings a burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with the comforting sides we all look forward to during the holidays.

This recipe is an ideal choice for your holiday meal or even a special Sunday dinner. Serve it alongside classic sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or sweet potato casserole to create a well-rounded feast. You could also add a refreshing green salad or some steamed green beans to brighten up the plate. For a finishing touch, a tangy cranberry sauce or apple compote can add a burst of flavor.

Servings: 8-10 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 (5-6 pound) fully cooked bone-in ham
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 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

Directions

  1. Place the ham in the slow cooker, flat side down.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, water, ground mustard, ground cloves, cinnamon, and ginger.
  3. Pour the mixture over the ham, ensuring it is well coated.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the ham is heated through and tender.
  5. Occasionally baste the ham with the juices for extra flavor.
  6. Once done, remove the ham from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
  7. Serve with the cooking juices drizzled over the top.

Variations & Tips

  • For a sweeter glaze, you can add 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup to the mixture.
  • For a bit of a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • For a citrusy twist, replace the apple cider vinegar with orange juice and add some orange zest to the glaze.
  • If you’re short on time, cook the ham on high for 3-4 hours, but be sure to keep an eye on it to prevent it from drying out.

Nutritional Insights & Dietary Considerations

This Slow Cooker Amish Christmas Ham offers a satisfying combination of protein and flavorful seasonings. While the brown sugar provides sweetness, the spices like mustard, cinnamon, and cloves add depth to the dish. For a lighter version, you could use a leaner cut of ham or reduce the sugar content. This dish does contain sodium from the ham and broth, so if you’re managing your salt intake, you might consider opting for a lower-sodium broth. For those following gluten-free diets, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as the ingredients are checked for any hidden gluten additives.

Sharing and Commenting is Caring

Your feedback is invaluable! If you’ve tried this Amish Christmas Ham, share your thoughts and any creative twists you’ve added. Commenting not only helps me improve but also inspires others who are looking for holiday meal ideas. Your support means so much—thank you for sharing!