Sweet Cinnamon Pork Loin

The Ultimate Sweet Cinnamon Pork Loin: A Delightful Twist on Roasted Pork

When you’re looking for a dish that’s as heartwarming as it is delectable, this Sweet Cinnamon Pork Loin checks all the boxes. This recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a sensory experience that marries the comforting richness of pork with the aromatic sweetness of cinnamon and brown sugar. Whether you stumbled upon this recipe searching for a festive dinner idea or a unique take on roasted pork, you’ve found the perfect culinary adventure to elevate your cooking game.

From Tradition to Innovation: The Story Behind This Flavorful Creation

This dish is inspired by my deep appreciation for classic flavors and my continual quest to reimagine them. Recalling the cozy autumnal feasts of my childhood, I wanted to capture that essence while infusing a modern twist. The result is this aromatic and juicy pork loin, which gets its distinctive flavor from an unexpected hero—cinnamon. This spice, typically reserved for sweet treats, proves itself as a stellar addition to savory dishes, providing a subtle warmth that enhances the pork’s natural richness.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Cinnamon Pork Loin

• A Symphony of Flavors: The cinnamon and brown sugar create a caramelized crust that’s simply irresistible.
• Effortlessly Impressive: Despite its gourmet appeal, this recipe is straightforward and foolproof, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
• Healthier Indulgence: Enjoy a decadent taste that’s also mindful of your health, with the perfect balance of protein and flavorful spices.
• Versatile and Satisfying: Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.

Quick Grocery List

For the Pork Loin

• Boneless pork loin
• Olive oil

For the Sweet Cinnamon Rub

• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon

For the Glaze

• Honey
• Dijon mustard

Before You Begin: What to Know

• Prep & Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes total
• Equipment Checklist: Roasting pan, small saucepan, mixing bowls
• Dietary Adjustments: Gluten-free and dairy-free adaptations available
• Serving Size: Perfect for 4 to 6 servings

Sweet Cinnamon Pork Loin Recipe | Juicy, Oven-Roasted Pork with Brown Sugar & Spices

DifficultyEasy

Servings6

Prep time15 minutes

Cook time50 minutes

Total time1 hour15 minutes

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Pork Loin:

• 2 to 2.5 lb boneless pork loin
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Sweet Cinnamon Rub:

• 2 tbsp brown sugar, (light or dark)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp ground cumin

For the Glaze:

• ¼ cup honey
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp dijon, mustard
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

• 1

  • Preheat & Prep:
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.

• 2

  • Trim & Season the Pork:
    Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels. Trim off any excess fat, but leave a thin layer for moisture. Rub all over with olive oil, then season with salt and black pepper.

• 3

  • Mix the Sweet Cinnamon Rub:
    In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, paprika, garlic powder, and cumin. Rub this mixture evenly all over the pork loin.

• 4

  • Sear the Pork (Optional but Recommended):
    Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork loin for 2 minutes per side until lightly golden. This helps lock in juices.

• 5

  • Prepare the Glaze:
    In a small saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and apple cider vinegar. Simmer over low heat for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.

• 6

  • Roast the Pork:
    Place the pork loin in the baking dish. Brush with about half of the glaze. Roast uncovered for 30 minutes.

• 7

  • Glaze Again & Finish Cooking:
    Brush the remaining glaze over the pork loin and roast for another 15–20 minutes or until the internal temp reaches 145°F (63°C).

• 8

  • Rest & Slice:
    Remove from the oven and let the pork rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy.

Equipment Used:

• Roasting pan or baking dish
• Small saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Meat thermometer
• Skillet (optional, for searing)
• Basting brush

Nutrition

Calories	310
Carbohydrates	18g
Cholesterol	75mg
Fat	14g
Fiber	0.5g
Protein	28g
Saturated Fat	4g
Sodium	420mg
Sugar	15g
Trans Fat	0g
Unsaturated Fat	8g

General Notes

This dish stands out for its simplicity and the depth of flavor that can be achieved with just a few quality ingredients. The blend of sweet and savory elements makes it not just a meal but an experience.

Substitutions for Dietary Needs

• Gluten-Free Needs: Opt for gluten-free labeled spices and use a gluten-free substitute for any side dishes.
• Low-Sugar Requirement: Reduce the brown sugar or substitute with a natural sweetener like stevia, adjusting the quantity to taste.

Creative Variations to Spice Things Up

• Fruity Flair: Add apple slices around the pork loin before roasting for a sweet, tart contrast.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle crushed walnuts or pecans over the glaze for added texture and flavor.

Let’s Get Cooking: Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Searing Is Caring: Searing the pork before roasting helps to lock in the juices, ensuring a moist and tender result.
• Glaze Generously: Don’t hesitate to use all the glaze—more is better here to create that delicious sticky surface.

Art Of: Mastering the Roasting Technique

Understanding how to effectively roast meats can transform your cooking. The key with pork loin is ensuring it’s not overcooked, which can dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness without cutting into the meat, preserving its juices.

Unlock the Secrets of a Perfect Glaze

The glaze for this pork loin isn’t just about flavor; it’s about creating a visually stunning sheen and a layer of texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat underneath. The trick is in the timing—adding your glaze in stages prevents it from burning and builds up a richer flavor.

Nutritional Insight

• Calories: 310 per serving
• Carbohydrates: 18g—A moderate amount, mostly from the sugar used in the glaze.
• Protein: 28g—Excellent source for muscle repair and satiety.

Storing and Reheating Made Easy

• Cool Down: Allow leftovers to reach room temperature before storing them to maintain texture.
• Reheat Gently: Warm in the oven covered, to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I prepare this pork loin ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! For the best flavor, rub the pork with the cinnamon spice mix and let it marinate in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This enhances the spices’ infusion into the meat.

Q: What are the best sides to serve with this pork loin?
A: This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, like carrots or sweet potatoes, and a simple green salad. For a starchier side, consider serving it with mashed potatoes or a wild rice blend.

Q: Can I use a different type of vinegar if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?
A: Yes, you can substitute apple cider vinegar with balsamic vinegar for a deeper, slightly sweeter flavor profile, or use white wine vinegar for a milder taste. Each type of vinegar brings a unique twist to the glaze.

Join the Culinary Journey

We love seeing your culinary creations! Share your version of this Sweet Cinnamon Pork Loin on social media, rate it, and let us know how it goes. Also, check out our related recipes:

• Sheet Pan Maple-Glazed Pork Tenderloin with Sweet Potatoes and Apples
• Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops
• Hickory-Smoked Pulled Pork with Smoky Rub

With its robust flavors and simple steps, this pork loin recipe is designed to impress while being incredibly easy to execute. It’s the perfect dish to showcase your culinary skills and treat your palate to a feast of flavors. Enjoy the process and the delicious outcome!