Southern Comfort: Slow Cooker Ham with a Sweet & Spicy Glaze

The scent of ham baking always takes me back to Sunday dinners at my grandmother’s. Her secret ingredient? A splash of Coca-Cola in the glaze, a touch that elevated the sweet and savory profile to something truly special. While she would spend hours tending to it in the oven, this slow cooker version captures all those nostalgic flavors with minimal effort, leaving you free to enjoy time with loved ones.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 8-10 hours
• Total Time: 8 hours 5 minutes to 10 hours 5 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Dietary Type: Varies depending on ham, generally not gluten-free or dairy-free

Ingredients

• 5 lbs canned ham or 5 lbs semi-boneless ham
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1 teaspoon horseradish
• ¼ cup Coke

Equipment Needed

• Crock Pot (Slow Cooker)

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, dry mustard, and horseradish.
2. Slowly add the Coke, mixing until a thick paste forms. You may not need to use all the Coke, so add it gradually until you achieve the desired consistency.
3. Generously smear the brown sugar paste all over the ham, ensuring every surface is coated. The paste will create a beautiful, flavorful crust as it cooks.
4. Place the ham in the crock pot.
5. Pour the remaining Coke (if any) into the bottom of the crock pot around the ham. This will help to keep the ham moist and add even more flavor.
6. Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 8-10 hours. The exact cooking time will depend on your slow cooker, so check for doneness after 8 hours. The ham is ready when it is heated through and the glaze is deeply caramelized.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Choosing your ham: Canned hams are precooked, so you’re essentially just warming them through and adding flavor. Semi-boneless hams offer a slightly richer flavor and texture. If using a very large ham, you may need to cut it in half to fit in your crock pot.
• Preventing dryness: To ensure your ham stays moist, you can add a cup of chicken broth or pineapple juice to the crock pot along with the Coke. You can also place a few slices of pineapple on top of the ham before cooking.
• Glaze variations: For a deeper, richer glaze, try adding a tablespoon of molasses or maple syrup to the brown sugar mixture. A pinch of ground cloves or cinnamon can also add warmth and complexity.
• Checking for doneness: While the ham is already cooked, you want to ensure it’s heated through. An internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) is ideal.
• Finishing Touches: For an extra beautiful presentation, you can carefully remove the ham from the crock pot during the last hour of cooking and transfer it to a baking sheet. Baste with the juices from the slow cooker and broil for a few minutes until the glaze is bubbly and slightly charred. Watch it carefully to prevent burning!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve your slow cooker ham hot, sliced, and drizzled with the pan juices. It’s fantastic with classic Southern sides like mashed sweet potatoes, green beans, collard greens, and cornbread.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, slice the ham and warm it in a skillet with a little bit of the pan juices or gravy. You can also reheat it gently in the microwave.

For longer storage, you can freeze cooked ham for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	465 kcal	N/A
Fat	21.3g	32%
Saturated Fat	7g	34%
Cholesterol	107.7mg	35%
Sodium	3625.1mg	151%
Carbohydrates	14.3g	4%
Fiber	0.1g	0%
Sugars	14g	N/A
Protein	51.1g	N/A

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the brown sugar paste for a spicier kick.
• Fruitier flavors: Substitute pineapple juice for the Coke or add canned pineapple slices to the crock pot for a tropical twist.
• Honey-glazed ham: Replace the brown sugar with honey for a different kind of sweetness. You can also add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy flavor.
• Maple-glazed ham: Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar and add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a balanced sweetness and acidity.
• Smoked ham: Use a smoked ham for a deeper, more robust flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a bone-in ham for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use a bone-in ham, but it may take longer to cook. Make sure to check the internal temperature and ensure it reaches 140°F (60°C).

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the brown sugar paste and coat the ham a day in advance. Store the coated ham in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Q: What if my glaze is too thick?

A: If the glaze is too thick, add a little more Coke or water to thin it out.

Q: Can I use a different type of sweetener?

A: Yes, you can substitute the brown sugar with honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar. Just adjust the amount to your liking.

Q: The ham is getting too dark on top, what should I do?

A: If the ham is getting too dark, tent it with foil during the last few hours of cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Southern-style crock pot ham is more than just a recipe; it’s a taste of home, a connection to tradition, and a surefire way to impress your family and friends. The effortless preparation and slow cooker convenience make it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the aroma of sweet and savory perfection, and prepare to create a memory that will last long after the last slice is enjoyed. Don’t forget to share your photos and feedback – I can’t wait to see your delicious creations! Perhaps pair it with a crisp apple cider or a refreshing glass of sweet tea for the ultimate Southern experience.