Apple Cider Glazed Pork Roast is a delicious dish where tender pork roast is perfectly coated with a sweet and tangy apple cider glaze. The glaze adds a shiny, sticky finish that makes the meat both flavorful and juicy. The combination of the pork’s mild taste and the crisp apple cider creates a classic fall-inspired meal that’s just plain cozy.
I love making this recipe when I want something that feels special but isn’t complicated. The apple cider glaze is easy to whip up with just a few ingredients, and it gives the roast a beautiful caramelized outside. It’s always a hit whenever I serve it, and I find that the leftovers make for fantastic sandwiches or quick dinners later in the week.
My favorite way to enjoy this pork roast is with some roasted vegetables or a simple salad on the side. The subtle sweetness of the apple cider glaze pairs wonderfully with hearty sides like potatoes or green beans. It feels like a meal that brings everyone together around the table, perfect for sharing stories and enjoying good company.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Loin Roast: This cut is lean and tender, perfect for roasting. If you want more flavor and juiciness, try pork shoulder or pork tenderloin. Shoulder takes longer but is more forgiving if slightly overcooked.
Apple Cider & Vinegar: These bring a nice sweet-tart balance to the glaze. If you don’t have apple cider, fresh apple juice works too. Substitute apple cider vinegar with white wine vinegar or even lemon juice for acidity.
Brown Sugar & Dijon Mustard: Brown sugar adds sweetness, while mustard gives a bit of tang and depth. If you want less sugar, try honey or maple syrup. For mustard, yellow mustard is an easy swap but less sharp.
Spices (Cinnamon, Cloves): These warm spices add a cozy, autumn vibe. You can leave them out if you prefer a simpler glaze or replace with allspice or nutmeg for a different flavor note.
Fresh Herbs: Thyme and rosemary add earthiness and aroma. If fresh herbs aren’t available, use dried ones, but add them during cooking so they rehydrate and release flavor.
How Do You Get a Perfect Caramelized Glaze on the Pork?
To get that shiny, sticky apple cider glaze on your pork, searing and basting are key steps:
- Sear first: Browning the pork in hot oil seals in juices and creates a flavorful crust. Don’t skip this as it adds texture and depth.
- Simmer the glaze: Cook the apple cider mixture enough so it thickens slightly. This helps it stick and caramelize on the meat.
- Baste regularly: While roasting, brush the glaze over the pork every 15 minutes. This layers the flavor and builds a glossy finish.
- Rest before slicing: Letting the pork rest keeps juices inside and lets the glaze set a bit, so it won’t slide off when cut.
Following these steps will give your roast that beautiful, rich glaze you see in pictures and make every bite flavorful and juicy.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven-safe skillet or roasting pan – I recommend this for searing the pork and roasting it all in one pan for easy cleanup.
- Small saucepan – perfect for simmering the apple cider glaze until it thickens and develops flavor.
- Meat thermometer – helps you check that the pork reaches the perfect 145°F without overcooking.
- Kitchen tongs and carving knife – essential for handling the meat and slicing it neatly.
- Pastry brush (optional) – makes it easy to brush the glaze onto the pork during roasting.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Replace pork with chicken breasts or thighs for a different protein with similar flavor. Just adjust cooking time.
- Add sliced apples or pears to the roasting pan for extra sweetness and texture.
- Spice it up by stirring cinnamon or nutmeg into the glaze for a warmer flavor profile.
- Top with crispy bacon bits or toasted nuts before serving for added crunch.
Apple Cider Glazed Pork Roast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Roast and Glaze:
- 3 to 4 lbs pork loin roast
- 1 cup apple cider
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground cloves
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish and cooking)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish and cooking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, then 45 to 60 minutes to roast the pork to juicy perfection. Add 10 minutes for resting the meat before slicing, so plan for roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Apple Cider Glaze:
In a small saucepan, stir together the apple cider, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, cloves, and minced garlic. Bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat, then lower the heat and let it simmer carefully. Stir occasionally until the glaze thickens slightly—this should take about 10 to 15 minutes. Once ready, remove from heat and set aside.
2. Prepare and Sear the Pork Roast:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat your pork loin roast dry with paper towels. Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper all around the meat to season it nicely. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or roasting pan over medium-high heat. Place the pork roast in the pan and sear each side for 2 to 3 minutes until it’s golden brown. This will lock in juices and add great flavor.
3. Roast with Glaze and Herbs:
After searing, remove the skillet from the heat. Pour half of your prepared apple cider glaze over the pork, saving the other half to baste while roasting. Tuck fresh thyme and rosemary sprigs around the roast to infuse aromatic flavors. Place the skillet in your preheated oven. Roast the pork for 45 to 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Every 15 minutes, open the oven and baste the roast with the saved glaze to create a beautiful, shiny coating.
4. Rest and Serve:
When the roast is cooked, take it out of the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Cover loosely with foil and let it rest for 10 minutes—that helps keep the meat tender and juicy. Slice the roast into thick pieces and drizzle any remaining glaze over them. Garnish with a few extra sprigs of thyme and rosemary if you like. Serve warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Pork Loin for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and a tender roast.
Can I Make the Glaze Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the apple cider glaze a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just warm it gently on the stove before basting the pork.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork and glaze in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to keep the meat moist.
What Sides Go Well with Apple Cider Glazed Pork Roast?
This roast pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad to balance the sweet and savory flavors.