Slow Cooker Apple Cider Beef Roast
My neighbors literally knocked on my door asking what smelled so amazing! This Slow Cooker Apple Cider Beef Roast is a juicy, tender, fall-apart roast made with just 4 simple ingredients. It’s the ultimate easy crockpot beef roast recipe for busy weeknights or cozy Sunday dinners.
The slow cooker gently braises the beef chuck roast in sweet apple cider and brown sugar, creating a rich, glossy glaze and incredibly tender meat that shreds effortlessly with a fork.
If you’re looking for a set-it-and-forget-it slow cooker beef recipe, this is it.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Apple Cider Beef Roast
Only 4 ingredients
Minimal prep time
Budget-friendly cut of beef
Perfect for meal prep
Naturally tender and juicy
Makes incredible leftovers
The apple cider slowly infuses the beef with subtle sweetness while keeping it moist and flavorful. The result? A perfectly balanced sweet-and-savory crockpot beef chuck roast that tastes like you spent all day in the kitchen.
Ingredients (Serves 6):
3–4 lb boneless beef chuck roast
2 cups apple cider (not apple cider vinegar)
3 large apples, peeled and thickly sliced
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
Directions:
Layer the sliced apples on the bottom of a 5–7 quart slow cooker. This creates a flavorful base and prevents sticking.
Place the beef chuck roast on top of the apples. Pat it dry with paper towels for better browning later.
Whisk together apple cider and brown sugar until dissolved. Pour evenly over the roast.
LOW: 8–10 hours
HIGH: 4–5 hours
Cook until the beef is fork-tender and easily shreds.
Optional Glaze Step (Highly Recommended for Extra Flavor)
Transfer the cooked roast to a foil-lined baking sheet. Spoon some of the cooking juices over the top.
Broil on high for 3–5 minutes until the top caramelizes and forms a shiny glaze. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
Let rest 5 minutes before shredding.
Serving Suggestions:
This apple cider beef roast pairs perfectly with:
Creamy mashed potatoes
Roasted sweet potatoes
Buttered egg noodles
Steamed green beans
Roasted Brussels sprouts
Fresh salad with tangy vinaigrette
Spoon the soft stewed apples and rich cider juices over everything for maximum flavor.
Benefits of This Recipe
High in Protein
Beef chuck roast is rich in protein, iron, and B vitamins.
Budget-Friendly
Chuck roast is an economical cut that becomes incredibly tender when slow cooked.
Meal Prep Friendly
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Perfect for:
Expert Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Beef Roast
Use one tart apple (like Granny Smith) plus two sweet apples for balanced flavor.
For a thicker glaze, simmer 1–2 cups of the slow cooker juices in a saucepan for 10–15 minutes until syrupy.
Let the roast rest before shredding to retain juices.
Don’t skip the broiling step it adds incredible caramelized flavor.
