Slow cooker apple cinnamon pork chops have become my go-to for a comforting weeknight meal that feels special without any fuss. I remember my mom making something similar, and the sweet, spicy aroma filling our house always made me feel so cozy. This recipe captures that magic perfectly, with tender pork chops melting into a bed of soft, caramelized apples and onions, all kissed by warm cinnamon. If you’re looking for an easy slow cooker apple cinnamon dish that’s both delicious and incredibly simple, you’ve found it. It’s so good, you might even consider it a delightful crock pot apple cinnamon surprise! Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon
This dish is a winner for so many reasons, making it a staple in my kitchen:
- Incredible Flavor: The combination of sweet apples, savory pork, and warm cinnamon is simply divine.
- Minimal Prep Time: You can have everything in the slow cooker in about 15 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
- Healthy & Wholesome: Lean pork and natural fruit sweetness make this a nutritious choice.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients that deliver big on taste.
- Family Favorite: Even picky eaters adore the sweet and savory combination. This crock pot apple cinnamon is always a hit!
- Effortless Cooking: Let your slow cooker do the work, filling your home with an amazing aroma.
- Versatile: This crock pot apple cinnamon recipe is perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Pork Chops
Gather these simple ingredients for a truly delicious apple and cinnamon crock pot recipe. The blend of apples provides both sweetness and tartness, which is key for balancing the rich pork.
- 4 pieces Pork Chops (about 1-inch thick) – I like to use bone-in for extra flavor, but boneless works beautifully too.
- 2 medium Granny Smith Apples, sliced – their tartness cuts through the richness of the pork.
- 2 medium Fuji Apples, sliced – these add a lovely sweetness and hold their shape well.
- 1 large Sweet Onion, sliced – caramelizes beautifully, adding depth to the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons Butter – adds richness and helps the apples and onions soften.
- 2 teaspoons Cinnamon – the star spice that brings that comforting warmth.
- 1/4 cup Honey – for a touch of natural sweetness to complement the fruit.
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt – essential for bringing out all the flavors.
How to Make Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Pork Chops
Getting this delicious meal ready is incredibly straightforward. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create such a flavorful dish with minimal effort. Here are the easy apple cinnamon slow cooker instructions to guide you.
- Step 1: Prepare your slow cooker. Place half of the sliced Granny Smith and Fuji apples, along with half of the sliced sweet onion, into the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Step 2: Add the flavor base. Dot the apples and onions with the 2 tablespoons of butter. Drizzle half of the 1/4 cup of honey over the fruit and onion mixture. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon.
- Step 3: Season the pork. Pat your 4 pieces of pork chops dry with a paper towel. Season both sides generously with the 1 teaspoon of kosher salt.
- Step 4: Layer the pork. Lay the seasoned pork chops directly on top of the apple, onion, and cinnamon mixture in the slow cooker.
- Step 5: Add the remaining toppings. Top the pork chops with the rest of the sliced apples and sweet onion. Drizzle the remaining honey over everything and sprinkle with the remaining 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. This step ensures that wonderful aroma fills your kitchen as it cooks.
- Step 6: Cook until tender. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on Low for 6-7 hours or on High for 2-3 hours. You’re looking for the pork to reach an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). The apples should be soft and caramelized, and the pork should be incredibly tender.
- Step 7: Serve and enjoy. Once cooked, carefully remove the pork chops and serve them with the warm, caramelized apples and onions spooned over the top. These simple apple cinnamon slow cooker instructions result in a meal that’s both comforting and impressive.
Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Pork Chops
To elevate your dish from good to absolutely amazing, try these simple tricks:
- For even deeper flavor, lightly sear your pork chops in a hot skillet with a little oil before adding them to the slow cooker. This creates a beautiful crust and locks in juices.
- Don’t overcrowd the slow cooker. Make sure the pork chops and fruit have a little breathing room so everything cooks evenly.
- Taste the sauce before serving and adjust seasonings if needed. Sometimes a pinch more cinnamon or a drizzle of honey can make all the difference.
- If you like a thicker sauce, you can remove the pork and fruit towards the end of cooking and simmer the liquid uncovered on the stove for a few minutes to reduce it.
What’s the secret to perfect Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Pork Chops?
The real magic lies in the apple and onion mixture. Letting them caramelize slowly with the butter, honey, and cinnamon creates a naturally sweet and savory base that infuses the pork beautifully. This combination is truly the best slow cooker apple cinnamon experience.
Can I make Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Pork Chops ahead of time?
You can definitely prepare the entire dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just make sure the slow cooker is at room temperature for about 30 minutes before you start the cooking cycle to prevent any thermal shock to the appliance. For more slow cooker tips, check out these general slow cooker guidelines.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Pork Chops?
A common pitfall is overcooking the pork, which can lead to dryness. Always check the internal temperature, aiming for 140°F. Also, avoid opening the lid too often, as this releases heat and extends cooking time. For more tips on cooking pork, you can refer to pork cooking best practices.
Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Pork Chops
This dish is wonderfully versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a classic comfort food experience, serve these tender pork chops and sweet, spiced apples alongside creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy dinner rolls. The potatoes soak up the delicious sauce perfectly, while the rolls are great for a final clean-up of the plate. If you’re looking for something a little lighter, a simple green salad with a vinaigrette or some steamed green beans also works wonderfully to balance the richness. For a truly decadent experience, think of this as a savory precursor to a light cinnamon apple slow cooker dessert; the sweet, baked apple flavors complement each other beautifully. You might also enjoy these other pork recipes.
Nutrition Facts for Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Pork Chops
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving of this delicious slow cooker apple cinnamon recipe:
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on healthy eating, consult resources like the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Pork Chops
Leftovers of this delicious slow cooker apple cinnamon pork chop dish are fantastic! Once the meal is finished, let it cool slightly on the counter for about 30 minutes to an hour. Then, transfer any remaining pork chops and the apple-cinnamon mixture into airtight containers. You can store these in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you know you won’t finish them within that time, they also freeze beautifully. Store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. This makes having an overnight slow cooker apple cinnamon meal a breeze later in the week!
When you’re ready to reheat, the microwave is the quickest option for a single serving; just heat until warmed through, stirring halfway. For a more even reheat, place the leftovers in a small oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 325°F (160°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a tablespoon of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. For more reheating tips, see these food storage and reheating tips.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Pork Chops
What is slow cooker apple cinnamon?
Slow cooker apple cinnamon refers to a dish where pork chops are slow-cooked with apples, onions, honey, and cinnamon. It’s a comforting meal that allows the ingredients to meld together, creating tender pork and sweet, caramelized fruits and vegetables. It’s a fantastic way to get a flavorful dinner with minimal effort.
Can I use different types of apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Fuji apples create a wonderful balance of tartness and sweetness, feel free to experiment. Honeycrisp, Gala, or even Braeburn apples work well. A mix is usually best for complexity in flavor and texture. This flexibility makes it a truly adaptable slow cooker apple cinnamon recipe.
What should I serve with slow cooker apple cinnamon pork chops?
This dish pairs wonderfully with classic comfort food sides. Creamy mashed potatoes are a favorite as they soak up the delicious sauce. Fluffy rice, buttered noodles, or a simple side salad also complement the flavors beautifully. For a heartier meal, consider some crusty bread for dipping. You can find more side dish ideas here.
Why is my slow cooker apple cinnamon pork not tender?
If your pork isn’t tender, it might be due to undercooking or the type of pork cut used. Ensure you’re cooking it for the full recommended time on either Low (6-7 hours) or High (2-3 hours), and that it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F. Thicker cuts of pork might require a bit longer. Also, avoid opening the lid frequently, as this releases heat and prolongs the cooking process.
Variations of Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Pork Chops You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered this basic recipe, there are so many fun ways to switch things up! For a different take, try making slow cooker baked apples cinnamon as a side dish or a light dessert. You could also adapt this for chicken thighs or even pork tenderloin, adjusting cooking times accordingly. For a vegetarian option, consider using thick slices of sweet potato or butternut squash in place of the pork chops, adding some vegetable broth for moisture. If you love a little spice, add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of ground ginger along with the cinnamon for an extra layer of warmth in your apple and cinnamon crock pot recipe.
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Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon: 7 Hour Comfort
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
Enjoy tender pork chops slow-cooked with sweet and tart apples, infused with warm cinnamon for a comforting and effortless meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 medium Granny Smith Apples, sliced
- 2 medium Fuji Apples, sliced
- 1 large Sweet Onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons Butter
- 2 teaspoons Cinnamon
- 1/4 cup Honey
- 4 pieces Pork Chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
Instructions
- Place half of the sliced apples and onion in the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Add butter, half the honey, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to the slow cooker.
- Season both sides of the pork chops generously with kosher salt.
- Lay the seasoned pork chops on top of the apple and onion mixture in the slow cooker.
- Top the pork chops with the remaining apple and onion slices.
- Drizzle the remaining honey over the top and sprinkle with the remaining cinnamon.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on Low for 6-7 hours or on High for 2-3 hours, until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 140°F.
- Serve the slow cooker apple cinnamon pork chops with the caramelized apples and onions.
Notes
- Serve with mashed potatoes or dinner rolls for a complete meal.
- Searing the pork chops before slow cooking can add extra flavor.
- Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for the best flavor balance.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pork chop
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Keywords: Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Pork Chops, Crock Pot Apple Cinnamon Pork, Slow Cooker Apple Pork, Cinnamon Apple Pork Chops, Easy Slow Cooker Pork Apples
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