There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a Juicy Apple Cider Pork Roast wafting through your home. This easy-to-make recipe combines tender, succulent pork with a sweet-and-savory apple cider glaze that makes every bite irresistible. Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or cozy autumn meals, this recipe brings a gourmet touch to your table with minimal effort.

The key to a perfectly juicy pork roast lies in proper seasoning, slow roasting, and a finishing glaze that locks in flavor. Using fresh apple cider elevates the natural sweetness of the pork while complementing warm spices like rosemary and thyme. This combination creates a rich, savory-sweet harmony that’s sure to impress family and guests alike.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or trying your hand at a Sunday roast for the first time, this recipe is straightforward, approachable, and packed with flavor. Let’s dive into the details and discover how to make the ultimate Juicy Apple Cider Pork Roast.

Ingredients

1 (4–5 lb) bone-in pork shoulder or pork loin
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tsp salt
1.5 tsp black pepper
2 tsp garlic powder
2 tsp onion powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 cup apple cider (fresh if possible)
1/2 cup chicken broth
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
2 tbsp brown sugar
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
4 sprigs fresh thyme
2 apples, sliced
1 large onion, quartered
3 carrots, cut into chunks
2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for gravy)
2 tbsp cold water (optional, for gravy)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a roasting pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Prepare the pork roast by patting it dry with paper towels. Rub olive oil over the entire surface, then season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
Sear the roast in a large skillet over medium-high heat, 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown. This locks in juices and adds a beautiful caramelized crust.
Arrange the vegetables and apples in the bottom of the roasting pan. Place the seared pork on top of the vegetables.
Mix the glaze: In a small bowl, combine apple cider, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar. Pour evenly over the roast and vegetables. Tuck rosemary and thyme sprigs around the pork.
Roast the pork in the preheated oven for 2.5–3 hours, basting occasionally with the pan juices. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for tender, juicy meat.
Rest the meat: Remove the roast from the oven and cover loosely with foil. Let it rest 15–20 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
Optional gravy: Strain pan juices into a saucepan. Mix cornstarch and cold water to make a slurry, then whisk into simmering juices until thickened. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Slice and serve: Carve the pork against the grain and serve with roasted apples, vegetables, and gravy.

Tips for the Juiciest Pork Roast

Use a meat thermometer: This ensures you don’t overcook the pork. A perfect roast hits 145°F (63°C) internally.
Rest the meat: Covering the roast after cooking prevents juices from escaping when sliced.
Baste periodically: This keeps the surface flavorful and helps caramelize the glaze.
Choose the right cut: Pork shoulder is ideal for slow roasting, while pork loin is leaner but still delicious if cooked carefully.

Variations

Maple-Apple Pork Roast: Swap brown sugar for maple syrup in the glaze for an even richer fall flavor.
Spicy Cider Roast: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning for a gentle kick.
Slow Cooker Version: Sear pork and vegetables, then cook in a slow cooker on low for 6–8 hours, adding cider and broth halfway through.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for a classic comfort meal.
Serve with roasted Brussels sprouts, green beans, or a crisp apple and fennel slaw for a fresh contrast.
Leftovers make excellent sandwiches or tacos — simply shred the pork and drizzle with remaining cider glaze.

Fun Facts About Apple Cider Pork

Apple cider has been a traditional pairing with pork for centuries due to its natural sweetness and acidity, which balance the richness of the meat.
In autumn festivals across the U.S., cider-glazed pork is a staple, symbolizing the harvest season.
Using fresh, unfiltered apple cider intensifies the flavor and adds natural caramel notes when roasted.

With this recipe, your Juicy Apple Cider Pork Roast will become a signature dish, celebrated for its perfect combination of tenderness, flavor, and fall-inspired sweetness. Serve, savor, and enjoy the warmth it brings to your table.