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Bourbon Maple Glazed Easter Ham

Course Main Course
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Servings 12

Ingredients

  • 8-10 lbs fully cooked smoked ham (bone-in)
  • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup (Grade A Dark)
  • 1/2 cup bourbon quality matters
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar packed
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • whole cloves or star anise optional for flavor
  • to taste fresh thyme or rosemary optional

Instructions

  1. Score the fat cap of the ham in a crosshatch pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep into the fat layer.
  2. Pour 1/2 cup bourbon into a small saucepan over medium heat. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes to burn off harsh alcohol.
  3. Mix the reduced bourbon with pure maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, butter, and apple cider vinegar to create the glaze.
  4. Place scored ham fat-side up in slow cooker. Pour apple cider vinegar and water (1/2 cup each) on the bottom for steam.
  5. Set slow cooker to LOW. Plan on approximately 1 hour per pound (10 lbs = about 10 hours of cooking).
  6. Starting at hour 4, brush glaze over the ham every 30-40 minutes using a pastry brush to build caramelized layers.
  7. Use an instant-read thermometer to check internal temperature. Ham is ready when it reaches 140°F.
  8. Remove ham from slow cooker carefully and let rest for 15 minutes before carving.
  9. Carve ham into thick slices, allowing glaze and accumulated juices to drip over the meat.
  10. Serve warm with reserved glaze drizzled over slices. Refrigerate leftovers up to 3-4 days, or freeze up to 2 months.