Slow Cooker Cola Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze
This slow-cooked ham features a sweet brown sugar and honey mustard coating that caramelizes beautifully while Coca-Cola keeps the meat incredibly tender and adds subtle sweetness. The scoring technique creates attractive diamond patterns that hold the flavorful glaze. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or meal prep, this hands-off recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. The cola reduces during cooking to create a rich, glossy finish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Score the ham lightly with diagonal cuts one way, then the other to create diamond shapes, cutting no deeper than 1/8 inch
- 2
Mix brown sugar and honey mustard in a small bowl to form a paste
- 3
Coat the ham with the paste in the scored areas
- 4
Place the prepared ham in the slow cooker
- 5
Pour cola around the ham, not over it
- 6
Cover and cook on low setting for 7 to 8 hours
Tips
Score the ham carefully to avoid cutting too deep, which can cause the meat to fall apart during cooking
Pour cola around the sides rather than directly over the ham to prevent washing off the brown sugar coating
Let the ham rest 10 minutes before slicing to retain juices and make carving easier
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days. Slice before storing for easier reheating.
Can be prepared and refrigerated overnight before cooking. Add 30 minutes to cook time if starting cold.
Slice against the grain and serve warm. Pairs well with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Common Mistakes
Avoid cutting ham too deeply to prevent meat from falling apart during long cooking
Don't pour cola directly over glaze to prevent washing off the coating
Substitutions
slightly different flavor profile
FAQ
Can I use a different soda instead of Coca-Cola?
Yes, root beer, ginger ale, or Dr. Pepper work well. Each will add its own flavor profile to the ham.
What if my ham is larger than 4 pounds?
Add 30 minutes cooking time per additional pound. Ensure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the ham.
How long will leftovers keep in the refrigerator?
Properly stored leftover ham will keep 3-4 days refrigerated. Slice before storing for easier reheating and serving.