Apple Cider Pulled Pork is a tender, flavorful dish where pork slowly cooks in apple cider and savory seasonings until it becomes perfectly juicy and easy to shred. The cider adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the rich pork.
This recipe is perfect for slow cookers, making it a great option for busy days, gatherings, or weekend meals.
Yield and Timing
Serves 6–8 people
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 8 hours on LOW or 4–5 hours on HIGH
Ingredients
- 3–4 pounds pork shoulder (pork butt)
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Optional:
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes for a little heat
- BBQ sauce for serving
Preparation
Place the sliced onion and garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker.
Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, then place it on top of the onions.
Pour apple cider and apple cider vinegar around the pork. Sprinkle brown sugar over the top.
Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours, until the pork is very tender.
Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks.
Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix with some of the cooking juices to keep it moist.
Serving Suggestions
Apple Cider Pulled Pork is delicious served:
- On toasted buns as sandwiches
- Over mashed potatoes
- In tacos or wraps
- With coleslaw and pickles
- Alongside roasted vegetables
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Why This Recipe Is So Good
Apple cider adds a gentle sweetness that balances the richness of the pork while keeping the meat juicy during slow cooking. The result is tender, flavorful pulled pork that’s versatile and satisfying.
Apple Cider Pulled Pork is simple, comforting, and perfect for feeding a crowd.
