Holiday centerpiece or Sunday supper showstopper—Slow Cooker Apricot Dijon Spiral Ham is the kind of dish that looks and tastes like a masterpiece, but takes very little effort. The slow cooker does all the work while the sweet apricot preserves, zesty Dijon, and warm brown sugar melt into a glossy glaze that seeps into every slice.
Why I Love This Recipe
Spiral ham is already easy since it’s pre-cooked, but adding this luscious glaze and letting it simmer low and slow turns it into something special. The apricot-Dijon combo adds an elevated, slightly gourmet twist that’s still totally family-friendly. Plus, your oven stays free for side dishes or desserts like this Big Family Banana Pudding.
This recipe is also low-lift and stress-free, which makes it ideal for holidays, potlucks, or even lazy Sundays when you want something that feels fancy with very little effort.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 fully cooked spiral-sliced ham (6–8 lbs)
- 1 cup apricot preserves
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar (or orange juice)
- ½ tsp ground cloves (optional, for warmth and spice)
🍊 Ingredient Notes & Swaps
- Preserves: You can substitute peach or orange marmalade if apricot isn’t available.
- Mustard: Dijon adds tang and depth, but stone-ground mustard works too.
- Juice/Vinegar: Orange juice adds sweetness; vinegar gives sharper tang. Choose based on your taste preference.
- Cloves: Optional, but adds a warm holiday feel.
👩🍳 How to Make It
- Place the Ham: Put your spiral ham into the slow cooker cut-side down (flat side on the bottom) so the juices can flow down between the slices.
- Mix the Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together the apricot preserves, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and vinegar or juice. Add ground cloves if using.
- Glaze It Up: Pour the mixture over the ham, making sure to get between the slices if possible. Use a brush or spoon to coat well.
- Slow Cook:
Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours, or until the ham is heated through and beautifully glazed. You can baste it with the sauce from the bottom of the pot once or twice during cooking. - Serve: Transfer to a platter, spoon extra glaze over the top, and garnish with fresh herbs or citrus slices if you want to be fancy.
🔥 Tips for Ham Perfection
- Avoid overcooking: Spiral hams are pre-cooked, so you’re just warming it through and allowing the glaze to penetrate. Check around the 4-hour mark.
- Make ahead: The glaze can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge.
- Use the leftovers for sandwiches, omelets, or even mixed into a Dorito Casserole.
🍽 What to Serve With It
This ham pairs beautifully with traditional sides and some not-so-traditional ones too:
- Appetizer: Start the meal with this gooey, crowd-pleasing Baked Brie Appetizer.
- Side Dish: Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or mac and cheese.
- Holiday Spread: Round it out with Easy Turkey Wings for a hearty protein duo.
- Dessert: Sweeten things up with Caramel Apple Pie Cookies or Banana Pudding.
🧊 Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store leftover ham in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Wrap slices in foil and place in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Gently reheat covered in the oven or microwave with a little extra glaze to keep it moist.
🍴 More Recipes You’ll Love
If you liked this recipe, here are some more cozy and crowd-pleasing favorites:
- Easy Turkey Wings – slow-cooked, fall-off-the-bone goodness.
- Baked Brie Appetizer – perfect for holiday entertaining.
- Dorito Casserole – a fun twist for ham leftovers.
- Caramel Apple Pie Cookies – mini pies that taste like fall.
- Big Family Banana Pudding – a creamy classic that feeds a crowd.
🍯 Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Apricot Dijon Spiral Ham is proof that a stunning main course doesn’t have to be complicated. Let the slow cooker do the work while you focus on your guests, your sides, or your glass of wine. Whether it’s a holiday table or a simple weekend meal, this sweet-savory glazed ham will steal the spotlight.
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