In a medium pan over medium heat, cook diced bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Add finely chopped shallots and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in fresh spinach and minced garlic, cooking until the spinach wilts, then add optional brandy and reduce liquids for 2 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and transfer to a bowl.

To the bacon and spinach mixture, fold in diced apples, dried cranberries, and finely chopped fresh herbs (thyme and rosemary). Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring a balanced flavor profile for your Christmas Stuffed Pork Roast. Allow the stuffing to cool slightly while you prepare the pork.

Butterfly the pork loin by slicing it lengthwise down the middle, but do not cut all the way through. Open the pork like a book, maintaining an even thickness. Spread the stuffing mixture evenly over the surface of the pork, leaving about an inch around the edges to prevent spillage when rolled.

Carefully roll the pork loin tightly into a cylinder, enclosing the stuffing. Use kitchen twine to tie the roast securely, spacing the ties every two inches to keep everything intact during cooking.

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the tied pork roast, searing each side until browned, approximately 4-5 minutes per side.

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Transfer the seared pork to a roasting pan and add whole garlic cloves and chicken broth around it. Cover the pan with foil to maintain moisture. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Once the pork is roasted to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for at least 15-30 minutes. This resting period allows juices to redistribute, keeping the meat succulent. Meanwhile, strain the roasting liquid, reserving it for the gravy, and prepare a roux by whisking together flour and butter in a saucepan.

Whisk the reserved broth into the roux, simmering until thickened to create a rich gravy. Slice the Christmas Stuffed Pork Roast into thick slices to reveal the beautiful stuffing within. Serve drizzled with the homemade gravy alongside maple-glazed sweet potatoes.