Name: Halloween Cranberry Apple Coleslaw Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups shredded green cabbage (or coleslaw mix); 1 large apple (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), thinly sliced; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1/4 cup shredded carrots (optional); 1/4 cup sliced almonds or pecans (optional, for crunch); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup); 1 tsp Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper, to taste

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If you’re looking for a festive, crowd-pleasing side that shouts autumn from the rooftops, this Halloween Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is a must for your holiday table. With pops of juicy apple, chewy cranberries, and a tangy-sweet creamy dressing, it turns every bite into a zingy, crunchy celebration. Whether you’re pulling together a spooky feast or just want something special to brighten up a fall dinner, this coleslaw is a colorful, flavorful showstopper that couldn’t be easier to whip up.

Halloween Cranberry Apple Coleslaw Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of simple ingredients to create this vibrant Halloween Cranberry Apple Coleslaw. Each element adds something special—crunch, sweetness, tartness, or a creamy finish—making every forkful irresistible.

Green cabbage (coleslaw mix): The sturdy base that gives the slaw its irresistible crunch and holds up well to the creamy dressing.
Apple (like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith): Thinly sliced apple brings juicy sweetness and a gorgeous pop of color—choose sweet-tart varieties for best flavor.
Dried cranberries: These little ruby gems add tang and chew, making every bite a bit more exciting.
Shredded carrots (optional): For even more color and a touch of natural sweetness—plus, who can resist those orange accents for Halloween?
Sliced almonds or pecans (optional): A sprinkle of nuts gives toasty flavor and extra crunch; swap for pumpkin seeds if you want a nut-free twist.
Mayonnaise: The rich, creamy base for the dressing that brings everything together.
Apple cider vinegar: Brings lively tang and extra autumn flair, balancing the creamy and sweet elements.
Honey (or maple syrup): Just a touch of honey adds natural sweetness that highlights the apples and cranberries beautifully.
Dijon mustard: A small spoonful delivers subtle heat and depth to the dressing.
Salt and pepper: Essential for boosting every other flavor—don’t skip the final seasoning taste test.

How to Make Halloween Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

Step 1: Prep the Produce

Start by gathering all your fresh ingredients. Shred the green cabbage if you aren’t using a pre-shredded mix, and thinly slice your apple—I love leaving the skin on for extra color. Grate the carrots and measure out those bright cranberries and crunchy nuts if you’re using them. The more colorful your bowl at this stage, the better the final result!

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon mustard until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The dressing should be creamy, zingy, and just a little bit sweet—taste and adjust until you love it.

Step 3: Toss the Slaw

Add the cabbage, apple slices, dried cranberries, shredded carrots, and nuts to a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over everything and toss until the entire mixture is evenly coated. The sweetness of the apples, the tart cranberries, and the creamy dressing will start working their magic right away!

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—this allows all the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften just a touch. Serve your Halloween Cranberry Apple Coleslaw cold for maximum crunch and refreshment.

How to Serve Halloween Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

Garnishes

Sometimes, it’s those little finishing touches that make a dish truly special. Try a sprinkle of extra dried cranberries or nuts on top right before serving, or even fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a burst of green. For a Halloween twist, add edible googly eyes or sliced black olives for a cheeky, spooky presentation that will turn heads!

Side Dishes

This coleslaw is incredibly versatile and plays well alongside all your Halloween or fall favorites. Pair it with pulled pork, roasted chicken, or a smoky barbecue feast. It’s also a colorful counterpoint to richer, heavier dishes like macaroni and cheese or cheesy potato bake.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun Halloween party idea, scoop the coleslaw into hollowed-out mini pumpkins or orange bell peppers for individual servings. Use purple cabbage instead of green for extra color drama, or shape piles of the slaw into creepy “brains” for a playful, eerie effect! However you serve it, Halloween Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is guaranteed to get everyone talking—and munching.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any coleslaw left after your festivities (good luck—it usually disappears fast!), simply transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge. Halloween Cranberry Apple Coleslaw stays delicious for up to 2 days, although it’s crispiest when enjoyed within the first 24 hours.

Freezing

Unfortunately, coleslaw doesn’t freeze well—the raw veggies lose their crunchy texture and get watery after thawing. For best results, always make and enjoy this colorful salad fresh. If you need a make-ahead option, prep the veggies and dressing separately, then toss together right before serving.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat Halloween Cranberry Apple Coleslaw; it’s meant to be served cold straight from the fridge. If it’s been chilled for a while, just give it a quick stir and taste for seasoning, adding a little extra salt, pepper, or vinegar if you like.

FAQs

Can I use red cabbage instead of green for this Halloween Cranberry Apple Coleslaw?

Absolutely! Red cabbage looks stunning and adds even more of a Halloween vibe. You can use it alone or mix half and half with green cabbage for the best color and crunch.

What apples work best in this recipe?

Crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith are my top picks for Halloween Cranberry Apple Coleslaw. Their firm texture and bright flavor stand up beautifully against the creamy dressing and don’t get mushy.

How do I make this coleslaw vegan?

It’s easy! Simply swap the mayo for your favorite vegan mayonnaise, and use maple syrup instead of honey. The taste stays just as delicious and festive.

Can I prepare Halloween Cranberry Apple Coleslaw ahead of time?

Yes! You can shred the veggies and make the dressing up to a day ahead—store them separately and toss just before serving for the crunchiest texture. Or mix everything and chill for up to 24 hours if you don’t mind a slightly softer slaw.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely. All the ingredients in Halloween Cranberry Apple Coleslaw are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and tasty choice for those with dietary restrictions.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to wow your family and friends this season, give this Halloween Cranberry Apple Coleslaw a whirl. Bright, crunchy, and bursting with autumn flavors, it’s a dish that proves seasonal eating should always be this much fun. You might just find yourself making it long after the last jack-o-lantern goes out!