If you are looking for a refreshing, colorful side dish that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and crunchy, this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. Bursting with crisp green and red cabbage, juicy apple slices, and sweet dried cranberries, this coleslaw offers a delightful twist on the classic. The creamy, slightly tangy dressing ties everything together in a way that’s both satisfying and light, making it ideal for everything from backyard barbecues to cozy holiday dinners. It’s vibrant, easy to prepare, and versatile enough to complement countless meals, turning a simple coleslaw into a memorable dish.

Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Preparing this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe is straightforward because it relies on simple, fresh ingredients that each bring something special to the mix. From the crunchy cabbage to the sweet apples and tart cranberries, every element contributes to making your coleslaw beautifully textured and bursting with flavor.

4 cups shredded green cabbage: Provides a crisp, mild base that holds up well without getting soggy.
1 cup shredded red cabbage: Adds vibrant color and a slightly earthier crunch for visual and textural contrast.
1 large carrot, julienned or shredded: Infuses a subtle sweetness and bright orange hue, enhancing the dish’s appeal.
1 apple (such as Honeycrisp or Gala), julienned: Brings juicy sweetness and a fresh crunch that pairs perfectly with tart cranberries.
1/2 cup dried cranberries: Offers bursts of tangy sweetness that brighten every bite.
1/4 cup chopped green onions or red onion: Introduces a mild, savory bite that balances the sweetness of the fruit.
1/3 cup mayonnaise: Creates a creamy dressing that coats the slaw ingredients evenly without overpowering them.
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Adds sharpness and helps to meld the flavors together beautifully.
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup: Sweetens the dressing naturally, enhancing the fruit’s flavors.
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Provides subtle heat and depth to the dressing.
Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and highlighting the dish’s vibrant flavors.

How to Make Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Fresh Ingredients

Start by gathering your shredded green and red cabbage, carrot, julienned apple, dried cranberries, and chopped onions in a large bowl. Gently tossing these colorful ingredients together ensures that each spoonful will offer a perfect, balanced mix of crunch and flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth. This creamy, tangy dressing is what brings all the components of the slaw together, adding moisture and a touch of sweetness that complements the crisp vegetables and fruit.

Step 3: Toss and Chill

Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture, then toss evenly to coat every piece in that luscious dressing. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly while maintaining its crunch. Just before serving, give it another gentle toss to refresh the mix.

How to Serve Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra touch of flavor and crunch, consider garnishing your Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe with chopped pecans or sunflower seeds. These add a wonderful nutty taste and make each bite feel richer and more satisfying.

Side Dishes

This coleslaw pairs beautifully with grilled meats like chicken, pork, or brisket, adding freshness that balances smoky and savory flavors. It also shines alongside sandwiches and burgers, providing a crisp contrast that keeps things exciting on the plate. During holiday meals, its vibrant colors and festive ingredients make it a standout side dish everyone will love.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this slaw in edible cups made from hollowed-out bell peppers or inside tortilla wraps for an easy handheld snack. Layer it in a glass jar for attractive individual servings at picnics or parties. These presentation ideas elevate the dish, making it perfect for entertaining or sharing with friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh and flavorful for up to three days. Before serving leftovers, toss the slaw gently to redistribute the dressing, as the liquid might settle over time.

Freezing

Because of the fresh cabbage and creamy dressing, freezing this slaw is not recommended, as it will change the texture and watery consistency once thawed. For best results, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated within a few days.

Reheating

This coleslaw is meant to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is unnecessary and not advised. If you prefer it less chilled, simply take it out of the fridge about 15-20 minutes before serving to allow it to come to room temperature naturally.

FAQs

Can I substitute mayonnaise with something healthier in this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a fantastic healthier alternative that maintains creaminess while reducing fat content. It also adds a slight tang, enhancing the dressing’s flavor beautifully.

What type of apple works best in this recipe?

Using firm, crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Gala is ideal. These varieties provide sweetness and texture that hold up well without turning mushy, giving your coleslaw the perfect bite.

Can I make this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe vegan?

Yes, by substituting the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo or creamy plant-based yogurt and using maple syrup instead of honey, this recipe becomes completely vegan without sacrificing taste.

How far in advance can I prepare this coleslaw?

It’s best to prepare the coleslaw up to one day ahead. Allow it to chill so the flavors marry nicely, but avoid making it too far in advance to keep the cabbage fresh and crisp.

Can I add nuts or seeds to this recipe?

Definitely! Adding pecans, walnuts, or sunflower seeds introduces a lovely crunchy texture and nutty flavor that complements the fruity and tangy notes of the coleslaw perfectly.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a bowl of Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe that brings together vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and delightful textures in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or just craving a refreshing side, this recipe is incredibly easy to make and sure to impress. Give it a try, and you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again as a go-to dish for so many occasions.