This Apple Cranberry Slaw is creamy, crunchy, and full of fresh flavor from sweet apples, tart cranberries, and toasted walnuts. This easy slaw is always a hit with its perfect mix of textures and that tangy, irresistible dressing.

Jump to:

• ❤️ Why You'll Love This Apple Cranberry Slaw Recipe
• 🛒 Ingredients Apple Cranberry Coleslaw
• 🔪 How to Make Apple Cranberry Slaw
• 💡 Tips
• ☑️ Storage Instructions
• 🍴 What to Serve with Cranberry Apple Slaw
• 🔄 Substitutions and Additions
• Can I Make Apple Cranberry Slaw Ahead of Time?
• Can I Use Pre-Shredded Cabbage?
• Why is My Slaw Watery the Next Day?
• Can I Leave Out the Nuts?
• 🍽️ More Easy Side Dish Recipes

❤️ Why You'll Love This Apple Cranberry Slaw Recipe

• Crisp sweet apples
• Thinly shredded cabbage
• Chewy dried cranberries and crunchy toasted walnuts
• Tossed in a creamy dressing
• Easy to make
• Vegetarian friendly

My recipe for apple Cranberry Slaw is what happens when crunchy cabbage, sweet apples, and tangy cranberries come together in the most delicious way. It’s creamy, fresh, and just the right mix of sweet and savory. Every bite has that perfect combo of chewy, crisp, and creamy.

One of the things I love most is how light and refreshing it is, and how it works with everything from grilled chicken to holiday ham. Make it once and you’ll want to serve it for every occasion, from summer picnics to Thanksgiving dinner.

If you're looking for more slaw recipes with a twist, be sure to check out my Asian Cabbage Slaw.

🛒 Ingredients Apple Cranberry Coleslaw

• Green cabbage, thinly shredded: Adds that classic crunch.
• Honeycrisp apple, thinly sliced: Pairs perfectly with the tangy cranberries
• Carrots, thinly shredded: Bring a pop of color and natural sweetness
• Red cabbage, thinly shredded: A little extra crunch and a gorgeous purple color
• Dried cranberries: Chewy, tart, and just sweet enough to balance the slaw
• Toasted walnuts, chopped: Add a rich, nutty crunch that takes it up a notch
• Mayonnaise: The creamy base that ties everything together
• Sour cream: Adds a cool tanginess and smooth texture
• Apple cider vinegar: Bright, zippy, and just a little sweet
• Garlic salt: Keeps things savory and flavorful
• Black pepper: Just enough to balance the sweetness and round out the flavors

*Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below.

🥣 Recommended Tools

• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Serving bowl

🔪 How to Make Apple Cranberry Slaw

To Make the Dressing

Add the dressing ingredients in a small mixing bowl.

Whisk until well combined, then set it aside.

To Make the Coleslaw

Thinly shred your green cabbage using a sharp knife.

Shred your red cabbage.

Leaving the apple unpeeled, slice it into thin strips.

Add the apple to a bowl along with the green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, dried cranberries and toasted chopped walnuts.

Pour the dressing over the top.

Toss to combine, then chill it in the fridge for at least 1-2 hours before serving.

💡 Tips

• Use a sharp knife or mandoline to get those cabbage shreds extra thin
• Toast the walnuts for a few minutes in a dry skillet to bring out their flavor
• Chill the slaw for at least an hour before serving to let everything meld
• Stir the dressing again before adding it if it’s been sitting out
• Add the apples last so they don’t brown while you prep everything else
• A mix of green and red cabbage gives the best color and crunch
• Slice the apples thinly, but not too thin...think matchsticks

☑️ Storage Instructions

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving. I do not recommend freezing it.

🍴 What to Serve with Cranberry Apple Slaw

• Glazed Ham
• Oven Roasted Chicken
• Cast Iron Steak and Mushrooms
• Air Fryer Pesto Salmon
• Stuffed Pepper Skillet
• Air Fryer Shrimp
• Easy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

🔄 Substitutions and Additions

• Nuts: Swap the walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor

• Onion: Add a handful of thinly sliced green onions for a pop of bite

• Mustard: A tablespoon of Dijon mustard in the dressing adds a nice tang

• Yogurt: Mix in a bit of Greek yogurt to lighten up the dressing

• Greens: Toss in shredded Brussels sprouts for extra texture

• Fruit: For extra sweetness, throw in some chopped fresh pineapple or pear

• Cheese: Add a sprinkle of feta or goat cheese for a creamy, tangy twist

• Citrus: A little orange zest in the dressing gives it a fresh citrus note

Can I Make Apple Cranberry Slaw Ahead of Time?

Yes, and it actually tastes better after chilling. Just wait to add the apples until closer to serving so they stay crisp.

Can I Use Pre-Shredded Cabbage?

Absolutely. It’s a great time saver. Just make sure it’s fresh and not too thick.

Why is My Slaw Watery the Next Day?

Cabbage releases liquid over time. Give it a quick toss and it should come back together. You can also drain off extra liquid if needed.

Can I Leave Out the Nuts?

Totally. It’ll still be delicious without them, but you might want to add something crunchy like sunflower seeds instead.

🍽️ More Easy Side Dish Recipes

• Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes
• Glazed Carrots
• Garlic Potatoes and Green Beans
• Cheesy Roasted Cauliflower
• Air Fryer Baked Potatoes