If you’re looking for the best creamy sweet coleslaw recipe, this classic homemade version is simple, fresh, and packed with flavor. Crisp cabbage and carrots are tossed in a rich, tangy, slightly sweet coleslaw dressing that’s perfect for backyard BBQs, summer cookouts, and family dinners.
This easy homemade coleslaw takes just minutes to prepare but tastes even better after chilling in the refrigerator. The dressing soaks into the cabbage, creating the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, and fried foods.
Whether you’re serving pulled pork, burgers, fried chicken, or fish fry, this old-fashioned creamy coleslaw is always a crowd favorite.
Other Side Dishes You’ll Love:
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Coleslaw
- Quick and easy – ready in minutes
- Classic sweet coleslaw flavor
- Perfect BBQ side dish
- Great for potlucks and cookouts
- Uses simple pantry ingredients
This is the kind of homestyle coleslaw recipe that reminds people of family gatherings, summer picnics, and roadside BBQ joints.
Ingredients for Creamy Sweet Coleslaw
- 1 bag coleslaw mix (or 1 small head cabbage, shredded)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon celery seed (optional but classic)
How to Make Sweet Creamy Coleslaw
1. Make the Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and celery seed until smooth.
2. Combine the Slaw
Place shredded cabbage and carrots in a large mixing bowl.
3. Toss with Dressing
Pour the creamy dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until evenly coated.
4. Chill
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the cabbage to soften slightly and the flavors to blend.
5. Stir and Serve
Give the coleslaw a quick stir before serving.
Tips for the Best Homemade Coleslaw
Use fresh cabbage
Freshly shredded cabbage gives the best crunch and flavor.
Let it chill
Coleslaw tastes better after sitting in the refrigerator so the dressing can soak into the cabbage.
Adjust sweetness
Add more sugar for a sweeter slaw or extra vinegar for more tang.
Add celery seed
This small ingredient gives coleslaw that classic deli flavor.
What to Serve with Creamy Coleslaw
This classic BBQ coleslaw pairs perfectly with:
It’s also fantastic on sandwiches like pulled pork sliders or fried fish tacos.
Creamy Sweet Coleslaw
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 SERVINGS 1x
Description
This creamy sweet coleslaw is a classic BBQ side dish made with crisp cabbage, carrots, and a rich homemade dressing. It’s quick to make, perfectly sweet and tangy, and the perfect side for pulled pork, fried chicken, fish fry, and summer cookouts.
Ingredients
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1 bag coleslaw mix (or about 6 cups shredded cabbage)
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1 cup mayonnaise
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3 tablespoons sugar
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2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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½ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon celery seed (optional)
Instructions
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In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and celery seed until smooth.
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Place the coleslaw mix in a large bowl.
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Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture.
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Toss well until the cabbage and carrots are evenly coated.
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Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving for the best flavor.
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Stir before serving and enjoy.
Notes
For the best flavor, allow the coleslaw to chill for at least an hour so the dressing can soak into the cabbage. If you prefer a sweeter coleslaw, add an extra tablespoon of sugar.
- Prep Time: 10 MINUTES
- Chill Time: 30 MINS
- Category: APPETIZER | SALAD, Side Dish
- Method: NO COOK
- Cuisine: Grilling/BBQ
Storage Tips
Store leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving since the cabbage releases moisture as it sits.
Final Thoughts
This easy creamy sweet coleslaw recipe is one of those classic side dishes that never goes out of style. With crunchy cabbage, sweet tangy dressing, and simple ingredients, it’s the perfect addition to summer cookouts, potlucks, and weeknight dinners.
Once you make homemade coleslaw from scratch, you’ll never want the store-bought version again.
