If fall comfort food and weeknight sanity had a baby, this would be it. This Air Fryer Apple Cider Pork Tenderloin is juicy, cozy, and full of warm, sweet-savory flavor that makes the whole house smell like a hug.
The air fryer works a little bit of magic here. It seals in all that apple cider goodness, gives the pork a beautifully caramelized outside, and keeps the inside unbelievably tender. It’s the kind of dinner that feels special enough for Sunday night but easy enough for a Tuesday when everyone is hungry and you’re tired.
This is one of those recipes I make when I want smiles at the table — from my husband to my grown kids and those sweet little grandkids who always ask for “just one more slice.”
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pork tenderloin is sweet, savory, and perfectly balanced.
Apple cider adds gentle sweetness and helps keep the pork moist.
The air fryer cooks it fast without drying it out.
It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or even a simple salad.
And yes, it tastes like something you’d order at a cozy little bistro.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Pork tenderloin
- Olive oil
- Apple cider
- Dijon mustard
- Garlic, minced
- Brown sugar
- Fresh thyme (or dried)
- Smoked paprika
- Salt
- Black pepper
Optional glaze:
- Butter
- Extra apple cider
- Honey
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
- Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider, Dijon mustard, garlic, brown sugar, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the mixture all over the pork tenderloin, making sure it’s well coated.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Place the pork in the basket and air fry for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- While the pork cooks, melt butter in a small saucepan, add apple cider and honey, and simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Remove the pork from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Drizzle with the warm apple cider glaze and serve.
Kitchen Notes From My Home
Resting the pork is not optional — it keeps every slice juicy.
If your tenderloin is thick, add 2–3 extra minutes and check the temperature.
That glaze takes it from “good dinner” to “wow, this is amazing.”
For more pork cooking tips, don’t miss my Ultimate Air Fryer Pork Recipes Guide.
Variations to Try
- Add sliced apples and onions to the air fryer basket for the last 6 minutes
- Swap honey for maple syrup for a deeper sweetness
- Add rosemary for a more herbal flavor
- Make it spicy with a pinch of cayenne
What to Serve With Apple Cider Pork
This pork loves cozy sides.
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts
- Buttered green beans
- Wild rice or stuffing
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 4 minutes to keep it juicy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pork loin instead of tenderloin?
Yes, but increase cooking time by 8–10 minutes and check the temperature.
Is this sweet?
Mildly sweet and perfectly balanced with savory flavors.
Can I marinate overnight?
Absolutely, and it makes it even more flavorful.
Is this kid-friendly?
Very. The apple cider flavor is gentle and comforting.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Apple Cider Pork Tenderloin is one of those recipes that turns an ordinary night into something special. It’s cozy, flavorful, and so easy you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner.
The sweet apple cider glaze, tender pork, and warm spices make every bite feel like comfort food done right. This is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table, lingering just a little longer because it’s just that good.
If you’re looking for a recipe that feels homemade, heartfelt, and unforgettable, this one deserves a spot in your weekly rotation. 🍎🐖
