Go Back
Pulled pork sliders are a beloved dish known for their tender, flavorful meat and versatility. Perfect for game days, family gatherings, or casual dinners, these sliders offer a delightful way to serve up a crowd-pleasing favorite. In this recipe, we introduce a unique twist: apple cider, which brings a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor that elevates classic pulled pork to new heights.

Apple Cider Pulled Pork Sliders

Get ready to savor the cozy flavors of fall with these irresistible Apple Cider Pulled Pork Sliders! This easy weeknight dinner combines tender pork shoulder with the sweetness of apple cider, making it a comforting dish perfect for festive gatherings or casual family meals. With a few simple ingredients and minimal hands-on time, you can create sliders that are sure to impress. Try this delightful recipe tonight and save it for your next autumn celebration!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

3-4 lbs pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)

2 cups apple cider

1 cup apple cider vinegar

1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)

1 medium onion, sliced

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon brown sugar

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

12 slider buns

Coleslaw (for topping, optional)

Fresh apple slices (for garnish, optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Pork: Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder and cut it into large chunks to fit it in your slow cooker.

    Make the Marinade: In a bowl, combine apple cider, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well until the sugar is dissolved.

      Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: Place sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the pork shoulder chunks on top and pour the marinade over the meat, ensuring it's well coated.

        Cook the Pork: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the pork is tender and shreds easily with a fork.

          Shred the Pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.

            Combine with Sauce: Transfer the shredded pork back into the slow cooker, mix with the cooking juices, and add barbecue sauce to incorporate flavor. Let it simmer on low for an additional 30 minutes.

              Prepare the Sliders: Lightly toast the slider buns. Spoon generous portions of the apple cider pulled pork onto the bottom half of each bun.

                Top with Coleslaw: If desired, add a spoonful of coleslaw on top of the pulled pork for a crunchy texture and extra flavor.

                  Serve and Enjoy: Place the top half of the buns on each slider and garnish with fresh apple slices if desired. Serve immediately!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 10 hours | 12 sliders