If you’re craving a dish that brings warmth, sweetness, and just the right amount of spice to your table, the Baked Pork Tenderloin with Honey Mustard Glaze and Spiced Apple Cider Rub Recipe is your perfect go-to. This recipe combines juicy, tender pork loin with a luscious honey mustard glaze, all nestled in a deeply flavorful spiced apple cider rub that infuses every bite with cozy autumn vibes. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or a special dinner, this recipe promises an unforgettable balance of savory, sweet, and warmly spiced flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create a complex, mouthwatering taste. Each component plays a crucial role—from the tender pork loin, acting as the hearty centerpiece, to the honey mustard glaze that adds a glossy, sweet tang, and the spiced apple cider rub that brings warmth and depth to every bite.
- 3 pounds pork loin roast (or pork tenderloin): The star of the dish, providing tender, juicy meat.
- 4 tablespoons salted butter (melted): Adds richness and helps develop a beautiful glaze.
- 4 tablespoons honey mustard: Introduces a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the pork perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons honey (or hot honey): Gives an extra layer of natural sweetness and slight heat if you choose hot honey.
- 2 teaspoons whole-grain mustard (or old-style mustard): Adds texture and a mild tangy kick.
- 1¼ cups apple cider (or apple juice – not cider vinegar!): Key for the spiced rub, infusing fruity warmth and moisture.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance flavors.
- 3 cups granulated sugar: Keeps the rub sweet and encourages caramelization in the oven.
- 1 teaspoon table salt: Works in harmony with water to season the rub evenly.
- 2 teaspoons ground cloves: Delivers a warm, slightly sweet spice note.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Introduces cozy, fragrant sweetness that pairs beautifully with pork.
- 1½ teaspoons ground nutmeg (or freshly grated nutmeg): Adds an earthy, nutty spice complexity.
- 1½ teaspoons ground ginger: Gives a subtle zesty warmth that’s vibrant without overwhelming.
- ¾ teaspoon ground sweet paprika: Offers a smoky-sweet undertone and appealing color.
- ¾ teaspoon ground allspice: Brings a rich blend of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg’s flavor profile.
- 1 cup water (or ½ cup apple juice + ½ cup water): Used to moisten the rub for optimal coating and flavor absorption.
How to Make Baked Pork Tenderloin with Honey Mustard Glaze and Spiced Apple Cider Rub Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Spiced Apple Cider Rub
Start by combining the granulated sugar, table salt, ground cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, paprika, and allspice in a bowl. Add the apple cider and water (or the half apple juice and half water mixture) to create a thick but spreadable paste. This rub is the heart of the recipe, packing the pork loin with rich, spicy, and fruity layers of flavor that are sure to enchant your taste buds as it bakes.
Step 2: Season and Coat the Pork Loin
Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels to ensure the rub adheres perfectly. Next, generously season the pork all over with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Rub the spiced apple cider mixture all over the pork, massaging it in well so every inch is covered. This step builds the base for a delicious crust during baking that locks in the juiciness inside.
Step 3: Make the Honey Mustard Glaze
While the pork marinates in its rub, whisk together the melted salted butter, honey mustard, honey, and whole-grain mustard in a small bowl. This luscious glaze will be brushed onto the pork partway through baking, bringing a shiny, sticky, and irresistible coating that balances the spices perfectly with sweet and tangy notes.
Step 4: Bake the Pork Tenderloin
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the coated pork loin in a roasting pan or on a rack inside a baking sheet. Bake low and slow for about 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Halfway through baking, brush the honey mustard glaze generously over the pork to create that beautiful, caramelized finish that everyone will love.
Step 5: Rest Before Carving
Once done, remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender, juicy slices. After this, slice the pork into medallions and serve warm, enjoying the blend of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors in every bite.
How to Serve Baked Pork Tenderloin with Honey Mustard Glaze and Spiced Apple Cider Rub Recipe
Garnishes
To enhance the presentation and flavor, consider sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or rosemary atop the sliced pork. Thin apple slices or a few crisp apple chips on the side also add a lovely seasonal touch and complement the spiced apple cider rub beautifully.
Side Dishes
The warm spices and sweet glaze pair wonderfully with classic fall sides like roasted sweet potatoes, maple-glazed carrots, or creamy mashed potatoes. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will also balance the richness of the pork for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning centerpiece, arrange the sliced pork tenderloin on a wooden serving board, surrounded by fresh apple wedges, sprigs of thyme, and small bowls of the honey mustard glaze for dipping. You can also stack the medallions into small towers for an elegant plated presentation that feels special and festive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool the pork completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 4 days, making it a fantastic option for prepared meals later in the week without losing its juicy tenderness or vibrant flavors.
Freezing
If you want to save some for even later, wrap the sliced pork tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen properly, it can last up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, place slices in a covered dish and warm gently in a 300°F oven until heated through—this method helps retain moisture. Alternatively, warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use pork tenderloin instead of pork loin roast for this recipe?
Absolutely! Pork tenderloin is leaner and cooks a bit faster, so just keep an eye on the internal temperature to avoid overcooking, but it works beautifully with this recipe.
What if I don’t have apple cider on hand?
You can substitute apple juice for apple cider if needed; just avoid using apple cider vinegar, as that will alter the flavor profile significantly.
Can I make the honey mustard glaze ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the glaze a day before and store it in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature before brushing it onto the pork during baking.
How spicy is the spiced apple cider rub?
The rub is more warm and aromatic than hot, thanks to spices like cinnamon, cloves, and allspice. If you prefer a little heat, you can easily add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Is this recipe suitable for special occasions?
Definitely. The Baked Pork Tenderloin with Honey Mustard Glaze and Spiced Apple Cider Rub Recipe strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and elegant flavors, making it great for holiday dinners or weekend celebrations.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting and delightful about the Baked Pork Tenderloin with Honey Mustard Glaze and Spiced Apple Cider Rub Recipe that makes it a standout on any dinner table. Its inviting aroma, vibrant flavors, and tender texture combine to create a meal that feels both special and homey. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how easy it is to impress your loved ones with this succulent, flavor-packed pork dish!
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Baked Pork Tenderloin with Honey Mustard Glaze and Spiced Apple Cider Rub Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Baked Pork Tenderloin recipe features a tender, juicy pork loin roast infused with a flavorful honey mustard glaze and a warm, aromatic spice rub. Slow baked to perfection, the pork absorbs a blend of cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, paprika, and allspice, balanced by the sweetness of honey and the tanginess of apple cider. Perfect for a comforting family meal or special occasion, this recipe yields eight servings and promises a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors with a beautifully caramelized crust.
Ingredients
Meat
- 3 pounds pork loin roast (or pork tenderloin)
Glaze & Sauce
- 4 tablespoons salted butter (melted, ½ stick)
- 4 tablespoons honey mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey (or hot honey)
- 2 teaspoons whole-grain mustard (or old-style mustard)
- 1¼ cups apple cider (or apple juice, not apple cider vinegar)
- 1 cup water (or ½ cup apple juice + ½ cup water)
Spice Rub
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon table salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cloves
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1½ teaspoons ground nutmeg (or ½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg)
- 1½ teaspoons ground ginger
- ¾ teaspoon ground sweet paprika
- ¾ teaspoon ground allspice
Seasoning
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to season pork)
Instructions
- Prepare the Spice Rub: In a bowl, combine granulated sugar, table salt, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, ground sweet paprika, and ground allspice. Mix well to create a uniform spice rub that will impart warm, aromatic flavors to the pork.
- Season the Pork: Pat the pork loin roast dry with paper towels. Season generously all over with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Then, coat the pork liberally with the prepared spice rub, pressing it gently into the meat for better adhesion and flavor infusion.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a separate bowl, whisk together melted salted butter, honey mustard, honey, whole-grain mustard, and apple cider until smooth. This glaze will add moisture, richness, and a sweet-tangy dimension as the pork bakes.
- Bake the Pork: Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Place the spiced pork loin in a roasting pan or oven-safe dish. Pour the glaze mixture evenly over the pork. Add the cup of water (or the apple juice and water mixture) to the bottom of the pan to create steam and maintain juiciness. Cover loosely with aluminum foil and bake for approximately 2 hours (120 minutes), or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Removing the foil in the last 15 minutes will let the glaze caramelize slightly.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the pork from the oven and transfer to a cutting board. Tent with foil and let rest for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist slices. Carve into medallions and serve with the pan juices spooned over the top for extra flavor.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer for accurate doneness; pork should reach 145°F internal temperature.
- Allowing the pork to rest after baking is essential to keep it juicy.
- Substitute apple cider with apple juice if cider is unavailable, but avoid vinegar.
- Adjust honey and mustard quantities to taste depending on preferred sweetness and tang.
- The spice rub can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container for convenience.
