Juicy Cranberry Dijon Pork Loin Roast with Apple Cider Glaze: A Festive Holiday Main Dish

Elevate your holiday dinner with this mouthwatering Cranberry Dijon Pork Loin Roast topped with a tangy Apple Cider Glaze. This recipe combines the richness of pork with the sweet-tart flavors of cranberries and apples, creating a dish that’s perfect for special occasions. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 1 hour 15 minutes, this roast serves 6-8 people and clocks in at only 450 kcal per serving. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal!

Ingredients

For the Pork Loin:

• 3-4 lb pork loin roast
• 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp dried thyme
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Cranberry Apple Topping:

• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1 large apple, diced
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1 tbsp butter

For the Apple Cider Glaze:

• 1 cup apple cider
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Preparation

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare Pork Loin: In a small bowl, combine Dijon mustard, brown sugar, olive oil, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the pork loin, coating it thoroughly.
3. Roast the Pork: Place the pork loin in a roasting pan. Roast for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes (about 20 minutes per pound), or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Cover loosely with foil and let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
4. Make the Cranberry Apple Topping: While the pork is roasting, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add cranberries, diced apple, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the fruit softens and the cranberries pop. Set aside.
5. Prepare the Apple Cider Glaze: In another small saucepan, combine apple cider, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and balsamic vinegar. Bring to a simmer and reduce by half, about 10 minutes, until it becomes a thick glaze.
6. Serve: Slice the pork and arrange it on a serving platter. Spoon the cranberry apple topping over the pork and drizzle with the apple cider glaze. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Servings: 6-8 | Calories: 450 kcal per serving

This Cranberry Dijon Pork Loin Roast is a show-stopping main dish that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. The combination of tangy Dijon, sweet cranberries, and savory pork will leave your guests asking for seconds. Enjoy!