Apple Cranberry Coleslaw: 7 Reasons to Love This Delightful Dish

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 30, 2025

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Hey there, fellow food lovers! I can’t wait to share my absolute favorite creation in the salad world: apple cranberry coleslaw! This dish is a delightful mix of freshness and crunch that never fails to brighten up any meal. Seriously, the combination of crisp cabbage, sweet apples, and tangy dried cranberries makes every bite a little celebration in your mouth!

This apple cranberry coleslaw is not just a side dish; it’s a vibrant centerpiece that can elevate your lunch or dinner table. It’s quick to whip up, and the colors alone are enough to make anyone smile. Plus, it’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory—trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your rotation.

So, let’s dive into making this crunchy, refreshing apple cranberry coleslaw together!

Ingredients List

To get started on this delicious apple cranberry coleslaw, you’ll need the following fresh ingredients:

4 cups green cabbage, shredded: This forms the crunchy base of your coleslaw. I love using a sharp knife or mandoline for even shreds!
1 cup red cabbage, shredded: It adds a pop of color and a slightly peppery flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the apples.
1 cup carrots, shredded: Freshly shredded carrots bring both sweetness and a lovely crunch. Go for the pre-shredded kind if you’re short on time, but fresh is always best!
1 cup apples, diced: Use a sweet variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji for that perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Make sure to remove the core and skin before dicing.
1/2 cup dried cranberries: These little gems add a delightful chewiness and a burst of flavor. I like to use unsweetened ones for a more natural taste.
1/2 cup mayonnaise: This creamy ingredient brings everything together! You can also use Greek yogurt for a lighter touch.
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: It adds a tangy kick that brightens the entire dish. Trust me, it’s a key player here!
1 tablespoon honey: A touch of sweetness from honey balances the acidity of the vinegar. Feel free to adjust based on your taste!
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in this coleslaw. Start with a pinch and adjust as needed!

Gather these ingredients, and you’re already halfway to making this scrumptious apple cranberry coleslaw! Let’s keep the momentum going and move on to the preparation steps!

How to Prepare Apple Cranberry Coleslaw

Now that you’ve gathered all those vibrant ingredients, let’s get into the fun part—preparing your apple cranberry coleslaw! It’s super easy and can be done in just a few steps. Trust me, you’ll have a delicious salad ready in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Combine the veggies and fruits: In a large bowl, you’ll want to toss together the green cabbage, red cabbage, shredded carrots, diced apples, and dried cranberries. Make sure everything is well mixed—this is where all those beautiful colors really shine!
Whisk the dressing: In a separate bowl, grab a whisk and combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk it all together until it’s nice and smooth. This dressing is the magic that ties everything together!
Mix it all up: Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture. Using a spatula or tongs, gently toss everything together until all the veggies and fruits are coated in that creamy goodness. Make sure you get every little bit—no one wants a dry bite!
Chill out: Here’s where the waiting game begins! Cover the coleslaw with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully. Plus, it makes the coleslaw extra refreshing when you serve it!

And there you have it! This apple cranberry coleslaw is almost ready to dazzle your taste buds. Just wait until you take that first bite after it’s chilled—oh wow, it’s going to be incredible!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

While I love sharing this apple cranberry coleslaw recipe, I want to remind you that the nutritional information provided is an estimate. It can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose to use. Factors like the type of mayonnaise or the variety of apples can change the calorie count and nutritional values significantly.

So, if you’re counting those macros or calories closely, it’s always a good idea to double-check with the actual products you have on hand. Remember, cooking is all about enjoying the process and flavor—so don’t stress too much over the numbers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This apple cranberry coleslaw is a showstopper for so many reasons! Here are just a few things that make it a must-try:

Quick to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this vibrant salad in no time. Perfect for those busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
Full of flavor: The combination of sweet apples, tangy cranberries, and creamy dressing creates a delightful explosion of flavors in every bite. It’s a taste sensation!
Healthy and refreshing: Packed with crunchy veggies and fruits, this coleslaw is not only delicious but also a nutritious addition to your meals. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra fiber!
Versatile: This coleslaw pairs beautifully with just about anything—grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a light lunch on its own. You can serve it at picnics, barbecues, or family dinners!
Make ahead: You can prepare this coleslaw in advance! Just chill it in the fridge, and it gets even better as the flavors meld together. Great for meal prep!

Trust me, once you try this apple cranberry coleslaw, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it! It’s a recipe that brings cheer to any occasion.

Tips for Success

Making the perfect apple cranberry coleslaw is a breeze, especially with these handy tips to elevate your dish to the next level!

Choose the right apples: For the best flavor, go for sweet and crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji. They add a delightful crunch and sweetness that pairs perfectly with the tangy dressing.
Shred your veggies fresh: I can’t stress this enough! Shredding your cabbage and carrots fresh makes a world of difference in texture and flavor. Plus, it keeps everything crunchy!
Adjust the dressing to your taste: Feel free to tweak the dressing ingredients! If you prefer a creamier coleslaw, add a bit more mayonnaise or Greek yogurt. For a tangier kick, increase the apple cider vinegar.
Let it chill: Don’t skip the chilling step! Allowing the coleslaw to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes lets the flavors meld beautifully, making each bite even more delicious.
Experiment with mix-ins: If you want to get creative, try adding different nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch. You could also throw in some chopped celery or a handful of fresh herbs like parsley for a fresh twist!
Tweak the sweetness: Depending on your preference, you can adjust the honey in the dressing. If you like it sweeter, add a little more; if you prefer it less sweet, just reduce the amount!

With these tips in hand, you’ll be well on your way to preparing a fantastic apple cranberry coleslaw that everyone will love. Happy cooking!

Variations of Apple Cranberry Coleslaw

One of the best things about this apple cranberry coleslaw is how versatile it is! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

Add nuts for a crunchy twist: Toss in some chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds. They add a lovely crunch and a boost of healthy fats. Just make sure to toast them lightly for added flavor!
Mix in different fruits: Want to switch things up? Try adding slices of juicy pears or even some fresh pineapple chunks. You could also toss in pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and flavor!
Herb it up: Fresh herbs can elevate your coleslaw to a whole new level. Try adding a handful of chopped parsley, cilantro, or mint. They’ll bring a burst of freshness that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Spice it up: If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little kick. It’s a fun way to balance the sweetness of the apples and cranberries!
Go for a different dressing: Want to change the flavor profile? Swap out the mayonnaise for a yogurt-based dressing or a tangy vinaigrette. A honey mustard dressing would be a delicious alternative too!
Try a cabbage swap: Instead of green and red cabbage, experiment with different types like Napa cabbage for a sweeter, milder taste or even kale for a more robust flavor. Just be sure to massage it a bit if you go with kale to soften it up!

These variations can make your apple cranberry coleslaw exciting and new each time you make it. Don’t be afraid to get creative and mix things up—your taste buds will thank you!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got this delicious apple cranberry coleslaw whipped up, it’s time to think about how to serve it! This crunchy, refreshing salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, making it the perfect addition to any meal. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:

Grilled Meats: Think barbecued chicken, ribs, or grilled sausages! The tangy flavor of the coleslaw cuts through the richness of the meat, creating a perfect balance.
Sandwiches and Wraps: This coleslaw makes an excellent topping for sandwiches or wraps. Whether you’re enjoying a turkey club or a veggie wrap, a scoop of apple cranberry coleslaw adds a burst of flavor and texture!
Fish Tacos: If you’re having a taco night, serve this coleslaw alongside your fish tacos. Its crunchiness and sweetness pair wonderfully with the savory flavors of the fish and creamy sauces.
Picnic Fare: This coleslaw is a must-have for picnics and potlucks. It travels well and can stand up to sitting out for a bit, making it the perfect side dish for gatherings!
As a Light Lunch: Serve it on its own as a light lunch option. Just add some protein like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even a scoop of tuna to make it a complete meal!
BBQ and Cookouts: No summer cookout is complete without a side of coleslaw! This apple cranberry version will impress your guests and complement all the classic barbecue fare.

With these serving suggestions, your apple cranberry coleslaw will shine as a versatile side that enhances any meal. Enjoy the crunch and flavor while sharing it with family and friends!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

After you’ve enjoyed your delicious apple cranberry coleslaw, you might find yourself with some leftovers. No worries! This coleslaw stores beautifully, and I’m here to guide you on how to keep it fresh for later.

To store your coleslaw, simply transfer it into an airtight container. Make sure to seal it tightly to prevent any moisture from getting in. The coleslaw will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember, the longer it sits, the softer the veggies will become as they soak up the dressing. It’s still tasty, but if you prefer that crunchy texture, try to enjoy it within the first couple of days!

If you’d like to bring it back to life after storing, there’s no need to reheat this salad since it’s served cold. Just give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing. If it seems a bit dry, feel free to add a splash more of vinegar or a dollop of mayonnaise to freshen it up!

And there you have it! Your apple cranberry coleslaw is ready to be enjoyed again, making it a fantastic make-ahead option for busy days!