Apple Butter Pork Chops
Apple Butter Pork Chops bring together the sweetness of apple butter and the hearty flavor of pork chops in a simple, tasty dish. The pork chops get glazed with rich,…
By Ashley
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Reading time: 6 min
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Apple Butter Pork Chops bring together the sweetness of apple butter and the hearty flavor of pork chops in a simple, tasty dish. The pork chops get glazed with rich, smooth apple butter that adds a lovely fruity touch and helps keep the meat juicy and tender. A little cinnamon or spice mixed in creates a cozy flavor that feels just right for any night of the week.
I love making this dish when I want something comforting but easy to throw together. The apple butter makes the pork chops shine without needing a long list of ingredients, and it’s a nice way to use fall flavors all year long. I usually let the chops cook slowly in the pan with the apple butter, turning them so they get a nice glaze on every side—that’s the secret to keeping them moist and full of flavor.
My favorite way to serve these pork chops is with mashed potatoes or roasted veggies on the side, but really, they’re so tasty you could enjoy them with just about anything. Whenever I make this, it reminds me of cozy dinners at home, and it’s always a hit with family and friends who like a little sweetness with their savory dinner. If you haven’t tried apple butter on pork before, this recipe is a must-try!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops add great flavor and stay juicy. If you prefer, boneless chops can work too, but watch the cooking time since they cook faster.
Apple Butter: This is the star of the dish, giving it a smooth sweetness and great body. If you don’t have apple butter, you can mix applesauce with a little brown sugar and cinnamon to get close.
Apples: Choose sweet-tart apples like Gala, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. They keep their shape and add a nice balance. You can swap with other apples, but avoid very soft varieties like McIntosh.
Spices (Cinnamon & Nutmeg): These warm spices complement the apple butter perfectly. If you don’t have nutmeg, cinnamon alone works fine, or add a pinch of allspice for a twist.
How Do You Get Tender, Juicy Pork Chops with a Perfect Glaze?
Cooking pork chops properly is key to keep them moist and flavorful. Here’s what I find helpful:
- Season well: Salt and pepper both sides before cooking to enhance flavor.
- Sear first: Use medium-high heat to brown the chops for 3-4 minutes per side—this locks in juices and creates a tasty crust.
- Deglaze the pan: After removing chops, use apple cider vinegar to loosen brown bits. This adds depth to your sauce.
- Simmer gently with sauce: Adding the apple butter mixture and cooking the chops covered on low heat helps them absorb flavor and stay tender without drying out.
- Use a meat thermometer: Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure the pork is safe but still juicy.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for searing pork chops and making the sauce all in one pan.
- Wooden spoon – great for scraping up browned bits when deglazing the pan.
- Meat thermometer – helps you check the pork chops for perfect doneness without guesswork.
- Cutting board and sharp knife – for slicing apples evenly and prepping ingredients safely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pork for chicken breasts or thighs to try a lighter protein with the sweet apple butter glaze.
- Add a splash of maple syrup to the sauce for extra sweetness and a richer flavor.
- Stir in sautéed onions or shallots for more depth and a mild onion flavor.
- Use fresh sage leaves instead of thyme to add an earthy, slightly peppery taste that pairs well with apple.
How to Make Apple Butter Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For The Sauce:
- ½ cup apple butter
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 medium apples, cored and sliced (such as Gala or Honeycrisp)
- 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme (plus more for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, totaling around 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick enough for a tasty weeknight meal but special enough to impress your dinner guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Sear the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning your pork chops on both sides with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned. Then, take them out and set aside.
2. Make the Sauce and Add Apples:
Lower the heat to medium. Pour in the apple cider vinegar, scraping the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to lift up all the yummy browned bits. Stir in the apple butter, Dijon mustard, chicken broth, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Let this sauce simmer gently for about 2 minutes. Add your sliced apples and fresh thyme sprigs to the skillet.
3. Simmer Pork Chops in Sauce:
Put the pork chops back into the pan on top of the apples and sauce. Spoon some sauce over the chops. Then cover the pan and lower the heat to low. Let everything simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). When done, remove the thyme sprigs, and taste the sauce. Add more salt or pepper if needed.
4. Serve:
Arrange the pork chops on plates and spoon the warm apple slices and sauce over the top. Garnish with extra fresh thyme if you like. Serve alongside mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or your favorite side dish for a comforting meal.
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes! Boneless pork chops work fine in this recipe. Just reduce the simmering time slightly since boneless chops tend to cook faster. Keep an eye on the internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
What Can I Substitute for Apple Butter?
If you don’t have apple butter, try mixing smooth applesauce with a bit of brown sugar and cinnamon to mimic the flavor. It won’t be as thick but will still add that sweet apple taste.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to keep the pork juicy.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pork chops and sauce up to a day in advance. Reheat gently on the stovetop, covered, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce gets too thick.