Slow Cooker Apple Butter Pork

This slow cooker apple butter pork tenderloin is one of those effortless meals that fills your kitchen with warm, cozy aromas while you go about your day. It’s perfect when you want something comforting and flavorful without having to hover over the stove.

I first tried this on a busy weekend and was amazed how the pork stayed juicy and tender after hours in the slow cooker. It quickly became a family favorite for Sunday dinners.

Ingredients

• Pork tenderloin: lean and tender, this cut cooks evenly in the slow cooker
• Apple butter: brings a rich, fruity sweetness choose a high-quality jar with natural spices if you can
• Dijon mustard: adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness
• Apple cider vinegar: helps brighten and lift the glaze
• Garlic powder and onion powder: pantry staples that layer in savory notes
• Salt and pepper: essential for seasoning the pork well
• Fresh sage or thyme: optional, but these fresh herbs add an earthy aroma when sprinkled on top

Instructions

Build The Base:

Season the pork tenderloin evenly with salt and pepper all over. This simple step is key to enhancing the meat’s natural flavors and makes all the difference in the final dish.

Make The Glaze:

In a bowl, combine the apple butter, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until smooth and well blended. The mix should be thick but pourable so it coats the pork nicely.

Slow Cook It:

Place the pork tenderloin in the slow cooker and pour the glaze over the top. Turn the meat a few times to make sure it is fully coated in the apple butter mixture. Set the cooker to low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

Rest And Slice:

Once the pork is cooked through, transfer it to a cutting board and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute so the meat stays moist when you slice it. Garnish with fresh sage or thyme if you like.

My favorite is the apple butter itself. It brings such a unique warmth that turns a simple pork tenderloin into a dish that feels special. I remember my first bite of this at a friend’s house and how quickly I wanted the recipe for myself.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the microwave or covered on the stovetop to keep the pork tender. The glaze will thicken when chilled but loosens as it warms.

Ingredient Swaps

If you don’t have apple butter, you can use a combination of applesauce and brown sugar with a pinch of ground cinnamon. For herbs, rosemary also pairs wonderfully with pork and apple flavors.

Serving Ideas

Serve slices of the tenderloin over creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles along with roasted root vegetables. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness.

This recipe is a perfect blend of ease and flavor, making slow cooking a joy. Enjoy the warm aromas and tender pork with your loved ones.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What is the best way to season the pork for this dish?

A simple seasoning of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder enhances the pork's natural flavor without overpowering the sweet apple butter glaze.

→ How long should I cook the pork in a slow cooker?

Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F for tenderness and safety.

→ Can I use fresh herbs in this preparation?

Yes, garnishing with fresh sage or thyme adds a fragrant note that complements the sweetness of the apple butter glaze.

→ What is the purpose of resting the pork after cooking?

Resting the pork for about 10 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moister and more flavorful cut when sliced.

→ How can I adjust the glaze for a tangier flavor?

Increasing the apple cider vinegar slightly or adding a splash of lemon juice can add a tangier dimension to the glaze while keeping the balance with sweetness.