Irresistible Apple Cranberry Coleslaw

This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw brings autumn’s best flavors right to your table. The crisp sweetness hits differently when fall arrives.

I remember the first time I tossed apples with cranberries in coleslaw. The colors alone made me smile before I even took that first crunchy bite.

Why this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw works no matter the season

The balance between tart cranberries and sweet apples never gets old. You can serve this any month and it feels perfectly right.

I love how the walnuts add that earthy crunch. Your guests always ask what makes it so special.

This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw brightens up heavy meals without being too light. It’s substantial enough to satisfy but fresh enough to refresh.

What you will need to make this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw

Here’s what goes into my bowl every time:

• 16-ounce bag tri-color coleslaw blend (or shred your own cabbage and carrots)
• 1 medium-large Honeycrisp apple, diced (Gala works great too)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries (the slightly chewy kind, not rock-hard)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (toast them if you have time)
• 3 green onions, thinly sliced (white and light green parts)
• 2/3 cup mayonnaise (I use the real stuff)
• 2/3 cup Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat tastes best)
• 3 tablespoons honey (local honey if you can find it)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (fresh grated works too)

The Apple Cranberry Coleslaw really shines when you use crisp, fresh apples. I always choose ones that snap when you bite them.

How I Make This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw

1. Grab your biggest mixing bowl and dump in the coleslaw mix. Give it a gentle toss to separate any clumps.
2. Dice the apple into bite-sized pieces – about 1/4 inch works perfectly. I leave the skin on for extra color and nutrition.
3. Add the diced apple, cranberries, walnuts, and green onions to the bowl. Mix everything together with clean hands – it’s faster than a spoon.
4. In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, yogurt, honey, and ginger until smooth. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed.
5. Pour the creamy dressing over the cabbage mixture. Use two large spoons to fold everything together until every piece gets coated.
6. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This gives the flavors time to mingle and the cabbage softens just slightly.

The smell of ginger mixing with sweet honey always makes my kitchen feel cozy. You’ll know it’s ready when the dressing clings to every strand.

My kitchen secrets for getting this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw just right

I learned to add the apples last to keep them from browning too quickly. A splash of lemon juice helps too if you’re making it ahead.

Don’t overdress the salad – you can always add more. Start with three-quarters of the dressing and work from there.

The Apple Cranberry Coleslaw tastes better after an hour in the fridge. The flavors marry together and create something really special.

Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?

Yes, but add the apples and nuts right before serving. They stay crispier that way and won’t get soggy overnight.

What apples work best in coleslaw?

Honeycrisp and Gala hold their crunch longest. Avoid Red Delicious – they turn mushy too quickly in the dressing.

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How long does this coleslaw keep?

About three days in the refrigerator, covered tightly. The cabbage gets softer but still tastes great for sandwiches.

Follow me on Pinterest for more seasonal salads that make weeknight dinners feel special. I share new favorites every week.

Can I substitute the walnuts?

Absolutely – pecans, almonds, or sunflower seeds all work beautifully. I sometimes skip nuts entirely for nut-free gatherings and it’s still wonderful.

Looking for more fresh salad inspiration? Try my epic cranberry bean salad – it’s become a potluck favorite.

The times I enjoy my Apple Cranberry Coleslaw most

I serve this alongside grilled chicken or fish when I want something light yet satisfying. It cuts through rich flavors without competing.

My fresh apple walnut blue cheese salad pairs beautifully with this coleslaw for autumn dinner parties. The textures complement each other perfectly.