Apple Cider Pulled Pork

Use up that extra cider with this Apple Cider Pulled Pork recipe. The perfect blend of flavor with onion, garlic, coconut sugar, and loads of spices.

The ultimate fall-friendly apple cider pulled pork

Pulled pork is delicious as it is. Enhance it with apple cider, and holy moly. We’re talking about a serious flavor bomb here! And that’s exactly what this meal is – a flavor bomb of intense, savory deliciousness.

Making pulled pork with apple cider puts an autumnal spin on the classic meal. It’s a great option for serving to a crowd as guests can easily assemble their own sandwich which whatever toppings they may like!

I love to whip this together on weeknights in the Instant Pot, and sometimes I spend a Saturday letting it cook to perfect in the slow cooker. The method is up to you! Let’s dive in.

Ingredients in this apple pulled pork recipe

We’ll kick things off with the meat and onion, followed by the flavorings like coconut sugar, paprika, and chili powder.

• Pork loins: Start with 2 pork loins. Together, they should amount to about 2.5 lbs of meat.
• Avocado oil: Use 2 tbsp of avocado oil to sauté the onion and garlic.
• Yellow onion: You will need 1 small yellow onion diced into small pieces.
• Garlic: Use 3 cloves of minced garlic for great flavor.
• Coconut sugar: Interestingly enough, this recipe is delicious with a touch of sweet flavor. Use 3 tbsp of coconut sugar or brown sugar.
• Seasonings: Flavor things up with 2 tsp of salt, chili powder, and smoked paprika (each) and 1 tsp of pepper.
• Apple cider: Last but not least, 1 cup of apple cider will add lots to flavor to the pork and will finish off the dish with all of the fall vibes!

Tool needed to make this pork recipe

Depending on the cooking method you choose, you will need a specific set of kitchen tools. Both options keep things simple with only 3 items required.

Instant pot

• Cutting board
• Chopping knife
• Fork or tool to shred the pork

Slow cooker

• Skillet
• Spatula
• Fork or tool to shred the pork

For measuring, you will simply need 1 tsp, 1 tbsp, and 1 cup.

How to make apple cider pulled pork with an Instant Pot

This recipe has double the flavor and double the cooking methods! I’m breaking down how to make this pulled pork recipe in an Instant Pot or a slow cooker so that you can choose the best method for the occasion. Both are very easy. The Instant Pot is great for a quick dinner, and the slow cooker is nice if you want to let the meat cook all day!

To go the Instant Pot route, begin by setting the pot to the sauté function.

While it heats, cut each pork loin into 4 inch long chunks.

Add the oil to the pot. Once hot, add the pork and sauté for 2 minutes on each side to brown the meat.

Once browned, set aside on a plate.

Add the diced onion to the hot pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes before adding garlic. Once the garlic is fragrant, turn off the Instant Pot.

Add the pork back to the pot and then add the seasonings, followed by the apple cider.

Seal the lid and manually cook for 25 minutes. Once the time is up, let the pot naturally release for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, quick release the rest.

Turn off the pot and remove the lid. Let the pork rest for 10 minutes and then shred the meat and mix it with the juices. It should be easy to pull apart. If not, it may need more cook time.

How to make apple cider pulled pork with a slow cooker

To cook the pork in a slow cooker, begin with a large skillet. Heat it and add the avocado oil.

Sauté the pork on each side for 2 minutes until slightly browned, and then place the pork on a plate.

Sauté the onions for 2-3 minutes and then add the garlic. Let cook for another minute or so.

Set the slow cooker to low heat and add the pork, onions and garlic, spices, and apple cider.

Let cook for 6-8 hours or until the meat is easy to peel apart with a fork.

How to serve this apple pulled pork recipe

The classic way to serve this pork is atop a roll just like regular pulled pork. It tastes delicious on a fluffy bun either alone or garnished with onions, tomatoes, pickles, and/or shredded carrots.

You can also enjoy the pork as-is plated with sides like cornbread, green beans, broccoli, mac and cheese, salad, etc.

Apple cider pulled pork makes a hearty option for leftovers. You can use it the same way you served it originally, or add it to tacos, sandwiches… you name it! It will last for up to three days when sealed in an airtight container and kept refrigerated.

And great news! Pulled pork can be frozen too. In fact, it lasts quite a while in the freezer (up to 6 months), making it a great prep-ahead meal. When ready to eat, simply let it thaw and then warm it up in the oven or a slow cooker.

If you liked this recipe, you’ll want to try these!

The fall-approved recipes don’t stop here! Try this sweet potato casserole, squash chili, pumpkin muffins, and one pan chicken!

• Healthier Sweet Potato Casserole
• Butternut Squash Chili with Turkey
• Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins
• Fall One-Pan Chicken and Veggies

Recipe by Erin Morrissey and Photos by Quarter Soul Crisis