Slow Cooker Spiced Cider Pork Tenderloin for an Easy Weeknight Dinner Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a more intense flavor, you can sear the pork tenderloin in a hot skillet with a small amount of oil for one minute per side before placing it in the slow cooker. While this is optional, it adds a layer of depth to the meat. If you choose to sear, ensure the pan is hot and work quickly to avoid overcooking the tenderloin before it even enters the slow cooker.

The cooking liquid that remains in the slow cooker after removing the pork is full of flavor. If desired, you can pour this liquid into a small saucepan and simmer it over medium heat for a few minutes to reduce it into a thicker glaze. Drizzle this concentrated sauce over the sliced pork and apples right before serving to enhance the presentation and the overall taste of the dish.

Variations

• Savory Herb Twist: Replace the cinnamon with a teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary to give the dish a more savory, herbal profile. This variation works exceptionally well if you prefer a less sweet dinner option.
• Spicy Apple Cider Pork: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the brown sugar mixture. The heat from the pepper balances the sweetness of the cider and apples beautifully.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to prevent the meat from drying out.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the texture of the pork.

Reheat

Reheat gently in a covered pan over low heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying, or use a microwave on medium power.

Store any leftover pork and apples in an airtight container to maintain moisture. Ensure the food has cooled to room temperature for no more than 2 hours before placing it in the refrigerator.

Proper storage in a sealed container will keep the meat from drying out and prevent it from absorbing other odors in the fridge. Consume the leftovers within three days for the best quality and flavor.

You can prepare the apple slices and store them in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. However, for the best texture, avoid seasoning the pork until you are ready to start the cooking process.

The pork itself should be kept refrigerated until the moment it is placed in the slow cooker to maintain food safety standards throughout the preparation period.

Serving ideas

Serve the pork tenderloin sliced into 1-inch thick medallions, arranged on a warm platter. Spoon the cooked apples and some of the reduced cooking juices over the meat to ensure each serving is moist and flavorful.

This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides like roasted root vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad, which provide a nice contrast to the sweet and savory profile of the pork.

When serving, consider the visual appeal by arranging the apples alongside the pork rather than just piling them on top. The glossy, spiced apples add a beautiful color to the plate.

If you have guests, serving the pork on a large, shallow platter allows everyone to easily take a portion of both the meat and the tender fruit, ensuring a balanced and satisfying meal for all who are dining.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Spiced Cider Pork Tenderloin for an Easy Weeknight Dinner

Prep 5 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 10 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 2 lbs pork tenderloin
• 2 large apples, sliced
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 cup spiced apple cider

Instructions

1. Place the raw pork tenderloins into the bottom of the slow cooker basin. Arrange the sliced apples on top of the pork in an even layer to ensure they soften during the cooking process.
2. Sprinkle the brown sugar and ground cinnamon evenly over the apples and pork. Pour the spiced apple cider over the top of the ingredients. Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
3. Cook on low heat for 4 hours until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest on a cutting board for at least 3 minutes before slicing and serving with the cooked apples.

Contains: sulfites

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

320

Protein

35 g

Carbohydrates

22 g

Fat

8 g

Fiber

3 g

Sugar

18 g

Sodium

120 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.