Why You’ll Love this Sweet & Creamy Classic Coleslaw
When you’re looking for the perfect side dish to accompany your summer barbecue or weeknight dinner, this sweet and creamy coleslaw recipe is exactly what you need.
I’m obsessed with how the bread and butter pickle juice adds that perfect tangy sweetness that balances the creamy mayo.
The crisp texture of fresh cabbage paired with sweet carrots creates that satisfying crunch in every bite.
And can we talk about how easy it is? Just shred, mix, and chill.
The best part? You can make it ahead, and it actually tastes better after the flavors have time to mingle.
What Ingredients are in Sweet & Creamy Classic Coleslaw?
This sweet and creamy coleslaw recipe relies on just a handful of simple ingredients that come together to create that perfect balance of crunch, creaminess, and tangy sweetness. I love how these basic ingredients transform into something so delicious. The secret really is in that bread and butter pickle juice—it adds a dimension of flavor that regular vinegar just can’t match.
- 1 head cabbage, shredded
- 3 carrots, grated
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 4 tablespoons bread & butter pickle juice
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
When shopping for these ingredients, look for a firm, heavy cabbage with crisp leaves—this guarantees you’ll get that satisfying crunch. For the mayonnaise, use your favorite brand, though full-fat versions tend to give the creamiest results. Don’t have bread and butter pickle juice on hand? You can substitute with apple cider vinegar plus an extra tablespoon of sugar, but trust me, the pickle juice really does make all the difference in achieving that classic sweet and tangy flavor profile.
How to Make this Sweet & Creamy Classic Coleslaw
Making this coleslaw couldn’t be simpler, which is exactly why it’s been my go-to side dish for years. Start by prepping your vegetables—shred 1 head of cabbage and grate 3 carrots, placing them in a large bowl.
I find that hand-shredding gives you those perfect, not-too-thin cabbage pieces that retain their crunch, but a food processor with a shredding attachment works wonderfully if you’re short on time or patience. The mix of purple and green cabbage makes for a prettier presentation, but either works perfectly fine on its own.
Now for the dressing, which is where the magic happens. In a separate bowl, combine 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 4 tablespoons of bread & butter pickle juice (seriously, don’t skip this ingredient!), and 2 tablespoons of sugar.
Whisk these together until smooth and well-blended. Pour this creamy mixture over your shredded cabbage and grated carrots, then toss everything together until every piece is evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste—I usually start with about 1/4 teaspoon of each and adjust as needed.
Once everything is mixed to perfection, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. This resting time isn’t just about chilling the coleslaw; it allows the flavors to meld together and the cabbage to slightly soften while still maintaining its signature crunch.
The coleslaw will actually taste even better the next day, making it the perfect make-ahead side dish for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Just give it a quick stir before serving to redistribute that creamy dressing.
Sweet & Creamy Classic Coleslaw Substitutions and Variations
Several delicious variations can transform this classic coleslaw into something uniquely yours, without sacrificing that perfect sweet-and-creamy balance.
Try swapping regular mayo for Greek yogurt if you’re watching calories, or go tangy with a dollop of sour cream. Not a fan of bread and butter pickle juice? Apple cider vinegar works beautifully instead.
For more crunch, fold in diced apples, raisins, or toasted nuts.
Feeling adventurous? A dash of curry powder or hot sauce adds unexpected warmth.
And don’t limit yourself to green cabbage—red cabbage or a colorful mix creates a stunning presentation that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.
What to Serve with Sweet & Creamy Classic Coleslaw
Sweet and creamy coleslaw pairs wonderfully with almost any summer barbecue classic you can imagine.
It’s the perfect sidekick to smoky pulled pork sandwiches, fall-off-the-bone ribs, or crispy fried chicken. Can you honestly picture a proper fish fry without a heap of tangy slaw on the side?
I love serving mine alongside grilled burgers, where the cool crunch offers delightful texture contrast against a hot, juicy patty.
It’s also fantastic with hot dogs, adding that necessary veggie component. For something unexpected, try it atop tacos instead of lettuce—game changer, trust me.
Final Thoughts
This simple coleslaw recipe has become a staple in my kitchen for good reason. The perfect balance of creamy mayonnaise, tangy pickle juice, and just enough sweetness transforms ordinary cabbage into something truly craveable.
What I love most is how versatile it is—dress it up with extra add-ins or keep it classic.
Remember to let it chill before serving; this gives all those flavors time to mingle and develop. Trust me, patience pays off here.
Whether accompanying BBQ, sandwiches, or standing alone as a side, this coleslaw delivers that nostalgic, creamy crunch we all crave.
