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Crock Pot Ham & Cola: A Sweet and Savory Delight

I can still picture my Aunt Carol bustling around her kitchen every holiday season. Amidst the flurry of pie-making and casserole assembly, she’d always have a crock pot simmering away in the corner, filling the house with an intoxicating aroma. That aroma? Ham and Cola. I remember being skeptical the first time I tried it – cola and ham? But the tender, sweet, and slightly tangy glaze transformed a simple precooked ham into something truly special. It became a tradition, and now, I’m sharing it with you.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 7-8 hours
Total Time: 7 hours 5 minutes to 8 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 9-12
Dietary Type: Not specified (can be gluten-free depending on cola brand)

Ingredients

1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
1/4 cup cola (type soft drink)
3-4 lbs precooked ham

Equipment Needed

Crock Pot (slow cooker)

Instructions

In a small bowl, thoroughly combine the brown sugar, dry mustard, and prepared horseradish. Make sure there are no lumps of brown sugar remaining.
Gradually moisten the dry ingredients with enough cola to create a smooth paste. Start with a tablespoon at a time and mix well, ensuring the mixture reaches a spreadable consistency. Reserve the remaining cola.
Evenly rub the entire ham with the prepared paste. This coating will create a delicious glaze as the ham cooks in the crock pot. Use your hands to ensure every surface is covered.
Place the ham in the crock pot.
Pour the remaining cola over the ham in the crock pot.
Cover the crock pot and cook on HIGH for one hour. This initial high-heat period helps to jumpstart the cooking process.
Reduce the heat to LOW and continue cooking for 6-7 hours, or until the ham is heated through. The internal temperature of the ham should reach 140°F (60°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Choosing the right ham: A spiral-cut ham works exceptionally well with this recipe, as the glaze can penetrate between the slices, infusing more flavor. Bone-in or boneless ham both work, but remember that bone-in ham will require slightly longer cooking time.
Cola Considerations: The type of cola used can affect the final flavor. Classic cola will provide a traditional sweetness, while diet cola can be used to reduce the sugar content (though the flavor may be slightly different). Experiment to find your preference. Some chefs substitute Dr. Pepper for a bolder flavor.
Preventing a dry ham: If you notice the ham starting to dry out during the cooking process, add a little more cola or even some apple juice to the crock pot to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can baste the ham with the cooking juices every couple of hours.
Boosting the Glaze: For an extra glossy glaze, remove the ham from the crock pot during the last 30 minutes and place it in a roasting pan. Brush it with additional glaze made from reserved cooking juices reduced in a saucepan over medium heat until thickened, then broil for a few minutes until golden brown. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Don’t discard the juices! The cooking juices left in the crock pot after the ham is done are flavorful. Use them as a sauce for serving, or reduce them further on the stovetop to create a more concentrated glaze. Strain the liquid before reducing for a smoother sauce.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Crock Pot Ham & Cola hot, sliced thinly, and drizzled with the pan juices. It pairs perfectly with classic holiday side dishes like scalloped potatoes, green bean casserole, dinner rolls, and cranberry sauce.

Leftover ham should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for 3-4 days. You can also freeze leftover ham for up to 2 months. To reheat, slice the ham and warm it in the oven, microwave, or skillet with a little of the reserved cooking juices or broth to prevent it from drying out.

Nutritional Information

(Estimates will vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	300 kcal	15%
Total Fat	12g	18%
Saturated Fat	4g	20%
Cholesterol	80mg	27%
Sodium	2000mg	87%
Total Carbohydrate	15g	5%
Dietary Fiber	0g	0%
Sugars	14g	N/A
Protein	30g	60%

Variations & Substitutions

Spicy Ham: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the brown sugar mixture for a kick of heat.
Smoked Paprika: Incorporating smoked paprika adds a smoky depth.
Maple Syrup: Substitute some of the brown sugar with maple syrup for a richer, more complex sweetness.
Pineapple Glaze: Add pineapple juice to the cola and brown sugar mixture for a tropical twist. You can also add pineapple rings to the crock pot while cooking.
Gluten-Free: Ensure the cola brand you choose is gluten-free if dietary restrictions apply.
Cola Alternatives: Try using root beer or ginger ale for a different flavor profile.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a bone-in ham for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use a bone-in ham. However, you might need to increase the cooking time by an hour or two to ensure the ham is heated through. Always check the internal temperature.

Q: Can I use diet cola instead of regular cola?
A: Yes, you can use diet cola. It will reduce the sugar content of the glaze, but it may slightly alter the flavor.

Q: Do I need to add water to the crock pot?
A: No, you do not need to add water. The cola provides enough liquid for the ham to cook properly.

Q: How do I prevent the ham from drying out?
A: Keep the crock pot covered throughout the cooking process. You can also baste the ham with the cooking juices every couple of hours to keep it moist.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can cook the ham ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently in the oven or crock pot before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Crock Pot Ham & Cola recipe is a simple yet impressive dish that’s perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want a flavorful and effortless main course. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cola types and spice combinations to create your own signature glaze. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your feedback. Consider pairing it with a crisp green salad or a creamy macaroni and cheese for a complete and satisfying meal. Happy cooking!

Crock Pot Ham & Cola Recipe