DINNER

Apple Cider Pulled Pork: 5 Steps to Fall’s Favorite Dish

by basmer

13 de January de 2026

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Apple Cider Pulled Pork is an easy dinner that fills your home with incredible fall aromas and delivers melt-in-your-mouth shredded pork. Preparing this dish takes just a few minutes, while your oven does all the hard work. The result is a deeply flavorful meal that’s perfect for both busy weeknights and entertaining guests. The combination of sweet apple cider and savory pork creates a delightful balance that will keep your family coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Pulled Pork

This apple cider pulled pork recipe is a must-try for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time. Second, the slow cooking method ensures that the pork becomes fork-tender, making it perfect for pulled pork sandwiches. Third, the use of apple cider adds a unique sweetness that elevates the flavor profile. You can also prepare it in a slow cooker or an Instant Pot for added convenience. Lastly, this dish is gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table.

Ingredients for Apple Cider Pulled Pork

Gather these items:

4-5 pound bone in pork shoulder
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 medium/large yellow onions, sliced
2 Granny Smith apples, sliced
8 cloves garlic, smashed
3 cups apple cider
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons brown sugar
15 fresh sage leaves
4 sprigs fresh thyme
2 bay leaves
Kosher salt
fresh cracked pepper
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
2 cups strained braising cider
splash of apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon butter
Kosher salt
fresh cracked pepper

How to Make Apple Cider Pulled Pork Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat oven to 325 degrees.
Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a 5 quart braising pan over medium-high heat.
Step 3: Pat pork roast dry on all sides and season liberally with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Add pork to the pan and sear on all sides until a golden brown crust forms. Remove and set aside.
Step 5: Reduce heat to medium, add 2 sliced onions and 2 sliced apples to the pot along with a couple pinches of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, for 5 minutes.
Step 6: Add 8 cloves smashed garlic and cook, stirring frequently for 1 minute.
Step 7: Stir in 3 cups apple cider, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons brown sugar and a couple pinches of salt and pepper until well combined. Nestle 15 fresh sage leaves, 4 sprigs fresh thyme, and 2 bay leaves in the pan.
Step 8: Nestle pork roast back in the pan and cover with a tight-fitting lid.
Step 9: Place in the oven and braise for 3 hours or until the pork is fork-tender and falls apart easily. Flip meat halfway through braising if possible.
Step 10: Remove from oven and let pork rest in the braising liquid (with the lid on) for 30 minutes. Remove pork, shred, and set aside.
Step 11: Strain braising liquid into a large measuring cup, discarding apples, onions, and herbs. Let it sit for a few minutes, then skim the fat off the top.
Step 12: In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter and stir in 2 tablespoons flour. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
Step 13: Slowly whisk in 2 cups strained braising liquid. Stir constantly and gently simmer over medium heat for 3-4 minutes or until it thickens to your desired consistency. Add a splash of apple cider vinegar and a tablespoon of butter. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Step 14: Serve pork atop a pile of creamy mashed potatoes and smother them in the homemade gravy. Enjoy!
Step 15: If you loved this recipe, please leave a 5-star rating and review below!

Pro Tips for the Best Apple Cider Pulled Pork

Keep these in mind:

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork reaches an internal temperature of 190°F for the best texture.
Let the pork rest before shredding to retain more juices.
For a spicier kick, consider adding some chipotle in adobo sauce to the braising liquid.
Experiment with different types of apples for varying sweetness in the dish.

Best Ways to Serve Apple Cider Pulled Pork

This dish is versatile and can be served in many ways. One of my favorites is to make apple cider pulled pork sandwiches, topped with crunchy coleslaw to balance the richness of the meat. Another great option is to serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or over rice. You can also enjoy it as a filling for tacos or burritos, making it an excellent choice for gatherings.

How to Store and Reheat Apple Cider Pulled Pork

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. This recipe is perfect for meal prep, as you can batch cook it and enjoy it throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Cider Pulled Pork

What’s the secret to perfect Apple Cider Pulled Pork?

The secret lies in the slow cooking process and using quality ingredients like fresh herbs and good apple cider. This ensures the pork absorbs all those delightful flavors, resulting in a tender and juicy dish.

Can I make Apple Cider Pulled Pork ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pulled pork a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat it before serving, and it will taste just as delicious.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Apple Cider Pulled Pork?

A common mistake is overcooking or undercooking the pork. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s perfectly tender and juicy. Also, be sure to allow it to rest before shredding.

Variations of Apple Cider Pulled Pork You Can Try

While the classic recipe is fantastic, there are several variations to explore. You could try spiced apple cider pulled pork by adding warm spices like cinnamon and cloves. Another option is to make apple cider vinegar pulled pork, which adds a tangy twist. For a quicker option, consider making slow cooker apple cider pulled pork to let your appliance do the work!

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes, or try making cranberry orange pancakes for a delightful breakfast. If you’re looking for more pork dishes, consider apple cider braised pork as a tasty alternative.

For additional tips on cooking pork, you can refer to this pork cooking chart for guidance on safe cooking temperatures.