There’s nothing quite like a slow-cooked ham to set the stage for a beautiful holiday meal. This Amish Christmas Ham recipe is the perfect balance of sweet and salty, and the beauty of it lies in its simplicity. Made in a slow cooker, it’s a set-it-and-forget-it dish that allows you to spend more time enjoying your holiday festivities instead of standing over the stove. This ham comes out tender, juicy, and full of rich flavors, making it the hero of any holiday spread.
Why This Recipe is a Show-Stopper:
- Easy and Low-Maintenance: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, the slow cooker does all the hard work, leaving you with a beautifully cooked ham that’s bursting with flavor.
- Sweet & Salty Perfection: The combination of sweet fruit preserves and salty ham creates an irresistible flavor profile that will keep guests coming back for more.
- Perfect for Holiday Gatherings: Whether it’s Christmas, Thanksgiving, or a special family dinner, this Amish-inspired dish is sure to be the centerpiece of your holiday table.
Ingredients:
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 6-8 lbs)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar (or apple juice for a sweeter option)
- 1 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup pineapple preserves (or apricot preserves for a different flavor)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves (optional, for a warm, spiced flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)