Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this apple butter pork will become a favorite.
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Only 3 ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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No pre-cooking. Everything goes into the slow cooker raw.
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Set it and forget it. The slow cooker does all the work.
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Sweet and savory. Rich, satisfying, and delicious.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves pork and apples.
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Budget-friendly. Pork loin and apple butter are inexpensive.
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Perfect for fall and family dinners.
Ingredients
Servings: 6
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3 to 3 1/2 lb boneless pork loin roast, trimmed of excess fat
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1 1/2 cups apple butter
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1/3 cup soy sauce (low-sodium if preferred)
Ingredient Notes
Pork loin: Use boneless pork loin roast. Trim excess fat.
Apple butter: Adds sweetness and apple flavor.
Soy sauce: Adds savory depth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork
Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels and trim any thick, hard layers of fat. Place the pork loin in the bottom of a 5- to 7-quart slow cooker.
Step 2: Make the Glaze
In a medium bowl, whisk together the apple butter and soy sauce until completely smooth and glossy.
Step 3: Coat the Pork
Pour the apple butter mixture evenly over the pork loin, turning the roast once or twice with tongs to coat all sides.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours, or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, until the pork is very tender and reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C).
Step 5: Rest the Pork
Carefully transfer the pork loin to a cutting board and tent loosely with foil to rest for about 10 minutes.
Step 6: Thicken the Glaze (Optional)
While the pork rests, skim off any visible fat from the cooking liquid. If you want an extra-thick glaze, pour the liquid into a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring often, until it reduces.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Slice the rested pork loin into 1/2-inch thick slices and arrange on a serving platter. Spoon the thickened glaze generously over the sliced pork.
How to Serve Apple Butter Pork
This sweet, savory pork is delicious on its own, but the right sides make it a complete meal.
With Mashed Potatoes: The glaze is perfect over creamy potatoes.
With Rice: White rice or jasmine rice absorbs the sauce.
With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with green beans or broccoli.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
With Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up the glaze.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Pork Shoulder: Use pork shoulder for extra tenderness.
Make It with Different Fruit Butter: Use pear or peach butter.
Make It with Garlic: Add minced garlic.
Make It with Ginger: Add grated ginger.
Make It with Onion: Add sliced onion.
Make It with Rosemary: Add fresh rosemary.
Make It with Thyme: Add fresh thyme.
Make It Spicier: Add red pepper flakes.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Trim excess fat. This prevents the glaze from becoming greasy.
Do not lift the lid during cooking. This traps the heat and steam.
Let the pork rest before slicing. This keeps it tender.
Thicken the glaze for a stickier finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different meat?
Yes. Pork shoulder or chicken can be used.
Can I use a different fruit butter?
Yes. Pear or peach butter can be used.
Can I use a different soy sauce?
Yes. Regular or low-sodium soy sauce can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Reheat before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my pork dry?
You overcooked it. Check the temperature early.
Why is my glaze thin?
It did not reduce enough. Simmer longer.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes. Add onions or carrots.
Can I use a different pan?
This recipe is designed for a slow cooker.
The Beauty of Apple Butter Pork
There is something deeply satisfying about a warm, sweet, savory pork roast that comes together with almost no effort. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. This apple butter pork is a celebration of all those things.
Keep pork in your freezer. Keep apple butter and soy sauce in your pantry. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours on LOW or 3 to 4 hours on HIGH
Rest Time: 10 minutes
Thickening Time: 8 to 10 minutes (optional)
Total Time: Approximately 6 to 8 hours
Yield: 6 servings