Slow Cooker 2-Ingredient Maple Ham – The Easiest Holiday Ham Recipe
If you’re looking for a no-fuss holiday ham recipe that’s tender, juicy, and bursting with sweet maple flavor, then this Slow Cooker 2-Ingredient Maple Ham is your new go-to dish. With just a fully cooked ham and pure maple syrup, you can create a mouthwatering main course perfect for Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter, or any family dinner. This simple yet delicious recipe requires minimal prep and guarantees fall-apart tenderness every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Only 2 ingredients! Perfect for busy days.
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Hands-off cooking—your slow cooker does all the work.
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Naturally sweet, flavorful glaze without artificial ingredients.
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Ideal for holidays, potlucks, or easy meal prep.
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Works with bone-in or boneless ham.
Ingredients
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1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 4–5 pounds)
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1 cup pure maple syrup
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Slow Cooker
Lightly spray or grease the inside of your slow cooker for easier cleanup.
Place the ham inside the slow cooker, flat side down. This helps the ham sit securely and soak up more of the maple syrup.
Step 2: Add the Maple Syrup
Pour 1 cup of pure maple syrup over the ham. Make sure the syrup flows over as much of the surface as possible to coat it evenly.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Ham
Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
Cook the ham on LOW for 4–6 hours, or until it’s fully heated through and incredibly tender.
Step 4: Baste Occasionally
Every hour or so, spoon the warm maple juices from the bottom of the slow cooker and drizzle them over the ham.
This enhances the flavor and creates a rich, glossy glaze.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Once done, carefully remove the ham from the slow cooker.
Slice and serve it warm, with the remaining maple glaze drizzled generously over the top.
Recipe Variations & Helpful Tips
Add a Spicy Kick
Mix 1 teaspoon of ground mustard or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the maple syrup before pouring it on the ham.
More Aroma
Add a handful of whole cloves into the slow cooker for a warm, holiday-inspired fragrance.
Control the Sweetness
If you have picky eaters, serve the maple glaze on the side so everyone can adjust sweetness to taste.
Try Different Sweeteners
Swap pure maple syrup with:
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Honey
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Brown sugar
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Apple cider
(not 2 ingredients anymore—but still delicious!)
Serving Idea
Pair your maple ham with:
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Mashed potatoes
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Roasted vegetables
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Dinner rolls
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Mac and cheese
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Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker 2-Ingredient Maple Ham is proof that a spectacular holiday dish doesn’t have to be complicated. With minimal ingredients and zero hassle, it delivers unbeatable flavor and tenderness every time. Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, this maple ham is sure to impress.
