This Savory & Sweet Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Delight is a standout among the best pulled pork recipes for slow cookers. Tender pork shoulder cooks in a crockpot with a balanced spice rub and apple cider, delivering juicy, flavorful meat with a sweet-savory twist, perfect for any meal.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
Opt for a fatty pork shoulder for juicy, shreddable pork—trim excess if desired. Let the rub sit on the meat overnight for deeper flavor. Shred warm pork with forks for ease—cold meat resists pulling. Reserve cooking liquid to keep it moist. Cook on low for the best tenderness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with this Savory & Sweet Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Delight—it’s a gem among the best pulled pork recipes for your slow cooker, and it’s about to make every bite a delicious adventure! This dish is a flavor masterpiece: a pork shoulder turns irresistibly tender and juicy in the crockpot, infused with a spice rub that’s the perfect mix of savory warmth and a sweet apple cider twist that’ll have you smiling with every mouthful. It’s so simple—minimal prep, set it, and let it cook—yet delivers a rich, balanced taste that’s perfect for cozy dinners, gatherings, or just treating yourself. Whether you’re piling it on buns or savoring it solo, this pulled pork is a slow-cooked delight you’ll adore—savory, sweet, and oh-so-satisfying!
Savory & Sweet Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Delight
Savory-sweet pulled pork with apple cider—slow cooker delight.
Ingredients
- 4 lbs pork shoulder (Boston butt)
- 1 cup unsweetened apple cider
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gear Up for a Flavor Party: Grab your slow cooker, a small bowl, a cutting board, and two forks—this pulled pork’s about to bring savory-sweet joy with ease! Let’s get started with a big, excited grin for some crockpot fun!
- Mix the Savory-Sweet Rub: In your small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Stir it up—this simple rub’s going to make your pork a delightful treat!
- Rub Down the Pork: Pat your pork shoulder dry with paper towels—dry meat grabs the rub perfectly! Massage the spice mix all over, pressing it in with your hands—coat every inch so it’s ready to soak up that slow-cooked savory-sweet magic!
- Load the Crockpot: Place the spiced pork into your slow cooker—set it right in the center. Pour 1 cup of unsweetened apple cider around it—keep that rub on top! This cider’s your secret to juicy meat with a sweet, tangy twist!
- Cook Low and Slow: Pop the lid on your slow cooker and set it to low for 8-10 hours—or high for 4-6 hours if you’re in a hurry. Sit back and let it simmer—your kitchen’s about to smell like a cozy, delicious dream!
- Check the Tenderness: When it’s done, peek inside—the pork should fall apart with a touch! Lift it onto a cutting board with tongs; if it’s not shred-ready, give it another hour on low. Slow cooking’s the key to that tender delight!
- Shred with Ease: Take your two forks and pull the pork into bite-sized pieces right on the cutting board—it’ll shred like a charm! Drizzle a few tablespoons of the cooking liquid back in as you go—this keeps it juicy and bursting with that savory-sweet flavor!
- Taste and Perfect: Give your shredded pork a quick taste—need a bit more salt or pepper? Adjust it now to hit that perfect savory-sweet balance. This is your chance to make it just right—simple spices, big, delightful payoff!
- Mix It Back In: Scoop the shredded pork back into the slow cooker with the remaining juices—toss it gently to coat. Let it sit for a few minutes to soak up that apple cider goodness—it’s turning into the tastiest pulled pork you’ve ever had!
- Serve and Savor: Pile the juicy, savory-sweet pork onto buns, plates, or whatever you’re craving—grab a fork or dive in hands-on and savor the tender meat that’s pure slow cooker bliss. It’s delightful, it’s delicious—enjoy every mouthwatering bite!
Notes
- Use a marbled shoulder for juiciness—lean cuts dry out in the slow cooker.
- Shred warm for easy pulling—cold pork’s tougher to break apart.
- Save some cooking liquid—keeps leftovers moist and full of that sweet-savory vibe!
Nutrition Information
Yield
8Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 692Total Fat 49gSaturated Fat 18gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 26gCholesterol 204mgSodium 194mgCarbohydrates 7gFiber 0gSugar 6gProtein 53g
The recipes and nutritional information on Crock Pot Meal are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
Ingredients Notes
Pork shoulder (Boston butt) is the star—its marbling ensures succulent, pull-apart meat. Apple cider adds a sweet, tangy depth—use unsweetened for balance. Brown sugar enhances sweetness, while paprika and garlic powder bring savory notes, creating a harmonious rub that complements the pork’s natural richness.
Variations and Substitutions
Swap pork shoulder for pork loin for a leaner option (less juicy). Use apple juice or chicken broth instead of apple cider. Sub paprika with smoked paprika or chili powder for a twist. Add BBQ sauce or honey after shredding for extra flair. Serve with rice or coleslaw.
Storage Options
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days—juices keep it tender! Reheat in a skillet or microwave with a splash of cider or broth. Freezes well for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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