Sweet and Tangy Cranberry Apple Coleslaw You’ll Love

Name: Sweet and Tangy Cranberry Apple Coleslaw
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple); 2 cups chopped apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji); 1 cup dried cranberries; 1 cup Greek yogurt or mayo (or vegan mayo); 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup; 2 tablespoons vinegar (apple cider or white vinegar); 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds; 1 teaspoon celery seed (optional); 1 tablespoon lemon juice

December 24, 2025 by Mae

Bowl of sweet and tangy cranberry apple coleslaw topped with nuts.

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Sweet and Tangy Cranberry Apple Coleslaw You’ll Love

Setting the Scene

Imagine a sun-kissed picnic under a gentle breeze, laughter floating in the air as friends gather around a buffet of delightful dishes. Among the vibrant medley of flavors, one dish stands out like a beacon of bright color and tantalizing aromas: Sweet and Tangy Cranberry Apple Coleslaw. This recipe is a celebration of fresh ingredients and playful textures, making it the perfect sidekick for summer barbecues or an everyday dish that adds a little zest to dinner.

The crunch of crisp apples and cabbage dances together with the sweetness of dried cranberries, creating a harmony that tickles your taste buds and puts a smile on your face. With its vibrant hues of ruby red cranberries, refreshing green apples, and the earthy tones of cabbage, this coleslaw isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience. Perfect for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or just a weeknight dinner, it brings joy and comfort to all who indulge. So grab your apron, and let’s embark on a culinary adventure to create a refreshing, Sweet and Tangy Cranberry Apple Coleslaw you’ll love.

What You’ll Need

Before diving into the preparation, let’s gather everything you’ll need to create this delightful coleslaw. With fresh ingredients and a few kitchen essentials, you will be well-equipped to whip up this vibrant dish.

Ingredients

4 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple)
2 cups chopped apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work wonderfully)
1 cup dried cranberries (sweetened if desired)
1 cup Greek yogurt or mayo (substitute with vegan mayo for a plant-based option)
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
2 tablespoons vinegar (apple cider or white vinegar will do)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds (feel free to substitute if allergic)
1 teaspoon celery seed (optional, but adds a nice touch)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (for that extra zing)

Tools

To make your cooking journey smooth and enjoyable, gather the following kitchen tools:

Large mixing bowl
Whisk or mixing spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Chopping board
Sharp knife
Salad serving bowl

How to Make It

Now, let’s bring everything together in a joyful, flavorful creation! Making this Sweet and Tangy Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is a delightful process that will fill your kitchen with fresh and inviting smells. The steps are simple, and the results are sure to impress.

Prep the Base

Begin your culinary journey by preparing the base of the coleslaw. First, take those beautiful heads of cabbage — whether it’s the vibrant green or the rich purple variety — and shred them into bite-sized pieces. As you slice through the crisp leaves, let the fresh, peppery aroma fill your kitchen. You’ll want about four cups of shredded cabbage, so don’t be shy with your chopping.

Now, turn your attention to the apples. Choose a variety that speaks to your taste buds, perhaps the tartness of a Granny Smith or the sweetness of a Honeycrisp. Chop the apples, ensuring their skin retains its lovely color – this is what brings vibrancy to your dish. As you mix the freshly chopped apples with the cabbage, you’ll witness a delightful contrast of colors that makes your heart sing with anticipation.

Build the Flavor

With the crunchy base ready, it’s time to infuse flavor into our coleslaw. In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt or mayonnaise of choice, honey or maple syrup, vinegar, and lemon juice. As you blend these ingredients, the creamy texture melds seamlessly with the tangy notes, creating a luscious dressing that promises to coat each morsel perfectly.

Once the dressing is ready, pour it over your cabbage and apples, watching it cascade like a creamy waterfall. Gently toss everything together using a large spoon or your hands, ensuring that every piece is lovingly coated. The sound of the ingredients mingling is music to your ears, and the vibrant colors become even more alive under your careful touch.

Add the Final Touches

Now it’s time for the finishing touches. Sprinkle dried cranberries over the coleslaw for an added hint of sweetness and a chewy texture that beautifully complements the crunch of the cabbage and apples. Add the chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds, sprinkling them generously for a bit of nutty goodness. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in the celery seed for that subtle hint of flavor that rounds it all out.

Once everything is mixed together, let the coleslaw sit for about 15-20 minutes in the fridge. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a harmonious Sweet and Tangy Cranberry Apple Coleslaw that’s bursting with vibrant aromas when you finally take that first scoop.

Creative Twists

This recipe is versatile, opening the door to exciting variations that can suit any palate throughout the year. Here are a few creative twists that will enhance your coleslaw experience:

Seasonal Fruits: In the summer, consider adding juicy strawberries or peaches for a delightful twist on the flavor profile. In fall, diced pears can offer a warm sweetness that complements the apples beautifully.
Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can add an unexpected freshness while a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg introduces a warm, cozy flavor, perfect for autumn gatherings.
Protein Boost: Add shredded rotisserie chicken or chickpeas to transform this coleslaw into a more substantial side or main dish, making it perfect for lunch or a picnic.
Vegan Options: Swap the yogurt or mayo for a creamy avocado dressing or tahini for a nutty flavor that appeals to plant-based eaters.
Add More Crunch: Incorporate shredded carrots or diced bell peppers for an extra pop of color and a crunchy texture that enhances each bite.

Final Inspiration

Your culinary creation is now ready to steal the spotlight at any gathering! This Sweet and Tangy Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is more than just a side dish; it’s a vibrant addition that brings joy and flavor to your meals. Picture yourself sharing it with friends and family at a cozy dinner or sunny picnic, soaking up the laughter and warmth of connection.

As you savor each bite, let the crunchy textures and sweet-tangy flavors transport you to a place of joy and comfort. I encourage you to add this delightful recipe to your weekly meals or holiday feasts, and may it inspire you to create wonderful memories around your dining table. Here’s to delicious moments filled with love, laughter, and the irresistible allure of Sweet and Tangy Cranberry Apple Coleslaw you’ll love!

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