Description

The combination of apples, cinnamon, and pork creates a beautifully balanced dish that’s both savory and subtly sweet. This Apple Cinnamon Pork Loin Roast is an easy yet elegant recipe perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. Slow-cooked to perfection, the pork loin becomes tender and juicy while absorbing the rich flavors of apples, cinnamon, and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also a comforting and delicious dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds

Ingredients

• 3-4 pound pork loin roast
• 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well), sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 cup apple cider or apple juice
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish (optional)

Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Loin
Season the Pork: Start by seasoning the pork loin roast generously with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Rub the seasonings evenly across the entire surface of the roast.
Sear the Pork: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, sear the pork loin on all sides until it’s golden brown. This will help lock in the juices and give the roast a beautiful crust. Once seared, remove the pork from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Layer the Ingredients: Place the sliced apples and onions in the bottom of the slow cooker. These will act as a bed for the pork, infusing it with flavor as it cooks.
Add the Pork: Place the seared pork loin roast on top of the apple and onion mixture.
Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the apple cider (or apple juice), brown sugar, the remaining teaspoon of cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Pour this mixture over the pork, apples, and onions.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Pork Loin
Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Let the pork cook for 6-8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). The slow cooking method ensures the pork becomes tender and juicy while allowing the flavors of the apples and spices to meld perfectly.
Baste Occasionally: If you can, occasionally spoon the juices from the bottom of the slow cooker over the pork to keep it moist and flavorful.
Step 4: Finishing Touches and Serving
Rest the Pork: Once the pork is done, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
Serve: Slice the pork and serve it with the tender apples and onions from the slow cooker. Drizzle the flavorful juices over the top of the pork for extra moisture and taste.
Garnish: Optionally, garnish the dish with fresh thyme or rosemary for a pop of color and an additional layer of flavor

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tips:
Choosing the Right Apples: Granny Smith apples are perfect for this recipe as their tartness balances the sweetness of the brown sugar. Honeycrisp apples are also a great option if you prefer a slightly sweeter flavor.

Add Vegetables: For a complete one-pot meal, add baby carrots, potatoes, or sweet potatoes to the slow cooker along with the apples and onions. They will absorb the same rich flavors and make for an easy side dish.

Caramelized Sauce: If you want a slightly thicker sauce, remove the cooking liquid from the slow cooker and reduce it in a saucepan over medium heat until it reaches your desired consistency.

Leftover Ideas: Leftover pork loin can be used to make delicious sandwiches, wraps, or salads the next day. Slice it thinly and enjoy it cold or reheated.

Conclusion:
This Apple Cinnamon Pork Loin Roast is the perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can create a dish that is packed with flavor. The combination of juicy pork, sweet apples, and warm cinnamon makes this meal feel both comforting and sophisticated. Best of all, the slow cooker does all the hard work for you, so you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort. Whether you're serving it for a special family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your rotation. Enjoy the tender, flavorful pork and the sweet, cinnamon-infused apples that make this dish unforgettable!