Apple Cider Pulled Pork Recipe
When the weather cools down and apples are in season, I find myself craving slow-cooked comfort food. Recently I’ve shared a couple of posts about different Crockpot dishes to make during the colder months, and shared a recipe for a classic beef stew. This pulled pork recipe is one of my favorites — it’s hearty, flavorful, and the apple cider gives it just the right balance of sweet and savory. It really brings in the flavors of fall because apples are in season. So it’s the perfect way to have a season inspired meal! Best of all, it’s made in the crockpot, so you can set it in the morning and come home to a house that smells incredible.
If you’re looking for an easy pulled pork crock pot recipe, this one is perfect for a cozy fall dinner or feeding a crowd at your next gathering. I love a pulled pork with some amazingly delicious homemade coleslaw. It’s always the perfect combo and a crowd pleaser every single time. The icing on the cake would be homemade buns! But that’s for another blog post.
This post is all about slow cook pulled pork tenderloin.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Pulled Pork Recipe
Many make BBQ pulled pork, but an apple cider pulled pork?! That’s an amazing twist on it. Don’t worry, there’s still BBQ sauce in the recipe.
Why else is this recipe a must make?
- Effortless cooking: This is a true “set it and forget it” meal. That’s why I love the Crockpot so much (and even my rice cooker can do this), is that you toss in all the ingredients
- Seasonal flavor: Apple cider pairs beautifully with pork, adding depth and a hint of sweetness.
- Versatile: Great for sandwiches, sliders, tacos, or served as a main dish with classic pulled pork sides. It’s a tasty option for a BBQ if you’re looking for something to make during Labor Day weekend, Memorial Day, or on any weekend, really!
It’s easy to see why this dish earns a spot on the menu — it’s cozy, flavorful, and versatile enough for any occasion. Now that you know what makes this recipe so special, let’s walk through how to actually bring it together in your own kitchen.
Apple Cider Pulled Pork
Equipment
- 1 Crockpot or slow cooker
- 1 knife
- 1 cutting board
- 1 Bowl
- 2 forks
Ingredients
- 3 –4 lbs pork shoulder also called pork butt or pork tenderloin
- 2 cups apple cider not vinegar, but sweet cider
- 1 onion thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup barbecue sauce plus more for serving
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
Prep the Pork
- Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder. Season generously with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Layer the Crockpot
- Place sliced onions and garlic on the bottom of the crockpot. Set the pork on top.
Mix the Sauce
- In a bowl, whisk together apple cider, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Pour this mixture over the pork.
Cook Low & Slow
- Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours (or high for 4–5 hours), until the pork is fork-tender and shreds easily.
Shred & Serve
- Remove the pork, shred with two forks, then return it to the crockpot to soak up the juices. Serve warm with extra barbecue sauce if desired.
Pulled Pork Dinner Ideas
The beauty of this pulled pork crock pot recipe is how many ways you can serve it. It can be cooked any day of the week since it’s a set it and forget it recipe, or cook it for get togethers.
- Classic Sandwiches: Pile high on toasted buns with slaw.
- Sliders: Perfect for game day or parties.
- Tacos: Top with pickled onions, avocado, and cilantro.
- Bowls: Layer over rice or mashed potatoes with roasted veggies.
Best Pulled Pork Sides
Wondering what to serve alongside? Try these ideas:
- Coleslaw (classic or vinegar-based) – recipe coming soon!
- Cornbread or dinner rolls
- Roasted sweet potatoes
- Mac and cheese
- Pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast
These sides round out your pulled pork dinner ideas and make it easy to feed a crowd.
Conclusion
This apple cider crockpot pulled pork is the kind of recipe that feels special but couldn’t be easier. With just a few simple ingredients and a trusty slow cooker, you can put together a meal that’s perfect for fall gatherings, Sunday dinners, or even meal prep.
So next time you’re looking for new recipe ideas, give this pulled pork a try — it just might become a family favorite.
This post was all about slow cook pulled pork tenderloin.
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