Apple Cinnamon Pork Tenderloin Recipe
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: 227.9
Description:
This Apple Cinnamon Pork Tenderloin is a wonderfully simple and flavorful dish that’s perfect for anyone looking to switch things up for a festive dinner without the hassle of preparing a full turkey. The sweetness of apples combined with the warmth of cinnamon and a touch of dried cranberries creates a beautiful color and depth of flavor that will delight your taste buds. This dish is particularly great for a holiday meal or any time you’re craving a comforting yet healthy pork dish. Plus, it’s versatileβfeel free to tweak the recipe to suit your preferences, like adding fruity wine vinegar for an extra layer of tangy flavor.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pork tenderloin | 1 – 1 1/2 pounds | Use a lean, tender cut of pork |
| Cornstarch | 2 tsp | Helps thicken the apple mixture |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tsp | Adds warmth and spice |
| Brown sugar | 2 tbsp | Provides sweetness and caramelization |
| Apples | 2 | Choose tart apples like Granny Smith |
| Dried cranberries | 2 tbsp | Adds color and a touch of tartness |
| Raisins | 2 tbsp | Optional substitute for cranberries |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 227.9 |
| Fat | 4.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 73.7 mg |
| Sodium | 62.3 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 23.9 g |
| Fiber | 2.7 g |
| Sugar | 16.3 g |
| Protein | 23.7 g |
Instructions:
-
Preheat Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C), ensuring it’s hot and ready for your tenderloin. -
Prepare the Pork Tenderloin
Lightly grease a roasting pan or casserole dish with cooking spray for easy cleanup. Then, place your pork tenderloin in the prepared dish. The tenderloin should fit comfortably without crowding. -
Make the Apple Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine the following ingredients: cornstarch, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, apples (peeled, cored, and sliced), dried cranberries, and raisins. Stir everything together until well combined. The apples should be coated with the sugar and cinnamon, and the cranberries should be evenly distributed. -
Bake with Cover
Spoon the apple mixture around the pork tenderloin, making sure to cover it generously. Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. The apples will soften, and the tenderloin will begin to cook. -
Uncover and Continue Baking
After 30 minutes, remove the lid or foil and carefully spoon the apple mixture over the top of the pork. This allows the flavors to meld and gives the pork a beautiful caramelized finish. Return the dish to the oven and continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 155-160Β°F (68-71Β°C) on a meat thermometer. -
Rest and Serve
Once done, remove the tenderloin from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. The apples and cranberries will have softened into a luscious sauce thatβs perfect for drizzling over each portion.
Tips:
- Flavor Adjustments: You can add a splash of fruity wine vinegar to the apple mixture for added complexity. This will bring a nice tang that balances the sweetness of the apples and cranberries.
- Apple Varieties: While Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness, feel free to experiment with other apples like Honeycrisp or Gala for a sweeter variation.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve this dish with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
This Apple Cinnamon Pork Tenderloin is sure to become a family favorite with its perfect balance of flavors and ease of preparation. Enjoy this dish any time you want to impress your guests with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
