Crockpot Cola Ham
This is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it centerpiece—a tender, juicy ham with a sticky-sweet glaze that tastes like you spent all day tending it. The crockpot does the heavy lifting, freeing up your oven and your time.
Yield: 10–14 servings | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 4–6 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of cola and ham might sound unusual, but it’s a classic for good reason. Cola’s high sugar content caramelizes during slow cooking, creating a rich, lacquered glaze, while its phosphoric acid gently tenderizes the meat. The result is a deeply savory-sweet ham that’s more moist and flavorful than oven-roasted versions—and requires almost no hands-on work.
Ingredient Notes
Ham: A 6–8 lb fully cooked spiral-cut ham is ideal. The pre-cut slices allow the glaze to penetrate deep into the meat. Bone-in adds flavor; boneless is easier to carve.
Cola: One 12 oz can of regular cola (full sugar) is best. The sugar is essential for a thick, glossy glaze. Diet cola will not caramelize properly.
Brown Sugar: ¾ cup. Dark brown sugar adds deeper, molasses-like notes; light brown sugar gives a cleaner sweetness.
Honey: ¼ cup adds silkiness and floral sweetness. Maple syrup is a good substitute.
Dijon Mustard: 2 tablespoons. Its sharp tang balances the sweetness and adds savory depth.
Ground Cloves: 1 teaspoon (optional but recommended). A classic pairing with ham that adds warm, aromatic spice.
Ingredients
1 fully cooked spiral-cut ham (6–8 lbs)
1 can (12 oz) regular cola (about 1½ cups)
¾ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
¼ cup honey
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
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