Slow Cooker Apple Cider Pulled Pork – Easy & Juicy!

Table of Contents

• Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Apple Cider Pulled Pork
• The Secret to Perfectly Tender Pulled Pork
• Apple Cider: The Key to Unbelievable Flavor
• How to Serve Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
• Easy Tips for Making the Best Pulled Pork
• Frequently Asked Questions

Key Takeaways

This slow cooker apple cider pulled pork is a simple yet delicious dish that’s packed with rich flavors. The apple cider gives the pork a deep, slightly sweet taste, while the slow cooker ensures that the meat stays tender and juicy. Whether served on a bun, over mashed potatoes, or alongside roasted veggies, this dish is a must-try for easy weeknight dinners and meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Apple Cider Pulled Pork

If you’re looking for a no-fuss, fall-inspired meal that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas, then this slow cooker pulled pork is just what you need. This dish requires minimal prep and delivers a melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite. Perfect for busy families, gatherings, or even meal prep, this slow cooker pork recipe is a go-to comfort food.

The Secret to Perfectly Tender Pulled Pork

The key to incredibly juicy and flavorful pulled pork is choosing the right cut of meat. Pork shoulder, also known as Boston butt, is the best option because of its marbling, which ensures the meat stays moist throughout the cooking process. Slow cooking it for several hours breaks down the fibers, making it fork-tender and easy to shred.

Apple Cider: The Key to Unbelievable Flavor

Using apple cider in this slow cooker pulled pork recipe gives the meat a slightly tangy, subtly sweet flavor that enhances the overall dish. The natural acidity in apple cider also helps tenderize the pork, ensuring every bite is packed with rich, deep flavors. If you love classic pulled pork but want a unique twist, this recipe is the perfect choice.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

There are so many ways to enjoy this flavorful pulled pork. The most classic option is serving it on soft sandwich buns with a side of coleslaw. However, you can also pile it onto baked potatoes, use it as a taco filling, or even mix it into mac and cheese for a smoky, savory kick. No matter how you serve it, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Easy Tips for Making the Best Pulled Pork

• Don’t skip the seasoning: A flavorful rub adds depth and complexity to the meat.
• Let it cook low and slow: For the best texture, cook the pork on low for 8-10 hours.
• Shred it right: Use two forks to pull the pork apart while it’s still warm.
• Save the juices: Mix the shredded pork back into the slow cooker juices for extra moisture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this pulled pork ahead of time? Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I use a different cut of pork? While pork shoulder is ideal, you can also use pork loin for a leaner option. Just note that it may not be as tender.

What should I serve with pulled pork? This dish pairs well with coleslaw, cornbread, baked beans, or even roasted vegetables.

For more delicious slow cooker recipes, visit Clara Cooks.

Slow Cooker Apple Cider Pulled Pork – Easy & Juicy!

Slow cooker pulled pork made with apple cider for a rich, tender, and flavorful dish. Perfect for fall crockpot meals and family dinners.

Prep Time15 minutes mins

Cook Time8 hours hrs

Total Time8 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Course: Crock Pot

Cuisine: American

Keywords: apple cider pork, best pulled pork recipe, easy slow cooker recipes, fall crockpot meals, pork shoulder recipes, slow cooker comfort food, slow cooker pulled pork

Servings: 6 servings

Author: Clara

Ingredients

• 4 lbs pork shoulder
• 2 cups apple cider
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Burger buns or sandwich rolls, for serving

Instructions

1. Place the sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Rub the pork shoulder with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
3. Place the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the onions in the slow cooker.
4. In a bowl, mix apple cider, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
5. Pour the mixture over the pork.
6. Cover and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
7. Remove the pork from the slow cooker, shred with forks, and return it to the juices for extra flavor.
8. Serve on burger buns or sandwich rolls.

Notes

For extra flavor, toast the buns before serving. You can also add coleslaw for crunch.