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Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder – Tender, Juicy & Flavorful

Bring fall flavors to your table with this Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder! Slow-cooked to perfection, this juicy, tender pork is infused with sweet apple cider, savory herbs, and rich aromatics. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, special occasions, or meal prep. Serve with mashed potatoes or roasted veggies for a hearty, comforting meal everyone will love!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Comfort Food, Fall/Autumn
Servings 8
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot with lid
  • Tongs and carving knife
  • Cutting board and prep bowls
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Optional: slow cooker or oven-safe roasting pan

Ingredients
  

Pork & Braising:

  • 3–4 lb pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
  • 2 cups apple cider
  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth (optional, for balanced acidity)
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2–3 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 2–3 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 2–3 fresh sage leaves
  • Optional: 1–2 apples, sliced
  • Optional: 1–2 tbsp brown sugar or mustard

Optional Glaze or Sauce:

  • Honey or maple syrup
  • Reduced braising liquid for serving

Optional Sides:

  • Carrots, parsnips, potatoes, mashed potatoes, apple slaw

Instructions
 

  • Preheat Oven: 325°F (160°C).
  • Season Pork: Generously with salt and pepper.
  • Sear Meat: Heat oil in Dutch oven; sear pork on all sides until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  • Sauté Aromatics: Add onion, garlic, and herbs; cook until fragrant, scraping browned bits.
  • Deglaze: Pour in apple cider and optional broth; stir to loosen fond.
  • Return Pork: Add pork back to pot along with optional apples, brown sugar, or mustard.
  • Braise: Cover and cook 3–4 hours, flipping halfway, until meat is fork-tender.
  • Rest: Remove from oven, cover, and rest 15 minutes before slicing or shredding.
  • Optional Glaze: Reduce braising liquid on stovetop; brush over pork before serving.
  • Serve: With sides, in sandwiches, or shredded for bowls.

Notes

  • Sear meat first for depth of flavor and color.
  • Low and slow cooking ensures tender, juicy pork.
  • Use a mix of apple cider and broth for balanced sweetness and acidity.
  • Let meat rest before slicing to retain juices.
  • Leftover braising liquid can be reduced into a glaze or sauce.
  • Freeze cooked pork in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Keyword apple cider pork, autumn dinner, Braised pork, one-pot meals, pulled pork, slow cooked pork shoulder