We absolutely love diving into copycat recipes that bring restaurant favorites to our kitchens, and Cracker Barrel’s coleslaw is a standout classic. This creamy tangy side dish pairs perfectly with barbecue or fried chicken offering that fresh crunch we crave.
Originating from the iconic Cracker Barrel chain our version captures the authentic Southern flavors without the trip. We’re excited to share how simple it is to whip up at home so you can enjoy it anytime.
Ingredients
As we dive into recreating our favorite Cracker Barrel coleslaw, let’s gather the essential ingredients that capture its creamy and tangy essence. We’ve organized them in the order they are typically prepared, with prep specifics noted for accuracy and ease.
- Cabbage: 1 medium head (about 6 cups shredded; we recommend shredding it finely using a sharp knife or mandoline for the perfect crunch).
- Carrots: 2 medium carrots (about 1 cup shredded; grate them coarsely to add a subtle sweetness and vibrant color).
- Mayonnaise: 1 cup (full-fat for that authentic Cracker Barrel creaminess; opt for a brand like Duke’s for a Southern twist).
- Apple cider vinegar: 2 tablespoons (this adds the signature tang; make sure it’s unfiltered for maximum flavor).
- Granulated sugar: 2 tablespoons (adjust to taste if you prefer a milder sweetness to balance the acidity).
- Celery seed: 1 teaspoon (this spice elevates the dish with a nutty undertone; grind it lightly if using whole seeds).
- Salt and black pepper: ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper (freshly ground pepper enhances the zest; season to your preference for optimal taste).
With these simple, high-quality ingredients, we’re set to craft a coleslaw that rivals the original.
Required Tools and Equipment
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients for the Cracker Barrel coleslaw recipe, let’s ensure we have the right tools on hand to prepare it efficiently and safely. These essentials will help us achieve that perfect crisp and creamy texture with minimal effort.
To make the process straightforward, we’ve compiled a list of the key tools below, organized by their primary function in the recipe. Each tool is described briefly for clarity, emphasizing how it contributes to our preparation.
- Large Mixing Bowl: A sturdy, 4-quart bowl to combine and toss the shredded cabbage, carrots, and dressing. We recommend one with a non-slip base for easy mixing without spills.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife: Essential for finely shredding the cabbage; use a 8-10 inch knife with a comfortable handle to ensure precise, even cuts that enhance the coleslaw’s crunchy appeal.
- Box Grater or Mandoline Slicer: Ideal for coarsely grating carrots; opt for a stainless-steel box grater or adjustable mandoline to save time and achieve uniform pieces, reducing prep to under 5 minutes.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate 1-cup and 1-tablespoon sets for measuring ingredients like mayonnaise and vinegar, ensuring our coleslaw’s tangy flavor profile is spot-on every time.
- Whisk or Wooden Spoon: A medium-sized whisk for blending the dressing smoothly, or a spoon for gentle tossing to maintain the vegetables’ fresh texture without bruising.
With these tools, we’re fully equipped to recreate our authentic Cracker Barrel coleslaw at home, making the process both enjoyable and efficient.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, let’s walk through the steps to craft our authentic Cracker Barrel coleslaw with ease and precision. We’ll ensure each step is straightforward for a creamy, tangy result that captures the classic Southern crunch.
Prepare the Vegetables
First, we start by prepping the vegetables to achieve that crisp, fresh texture essential for our coleslaw. Begin with the finely shredded cabbage – use a sharp chef’s knife to slice a medium head of cabbage in half, remove the core, and cut it into thin, even shreds for about 4 cups total. This creates a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy dressing.
Next, tackle the coarsely grated carrots – grab 1 cup of fresh carrots and use a box grater or mandoline slicer to grate them quickly and safely. Aim for a coarse texture to add vibrant color and a subtle sweetness that enhances the overall flavor. Once done, place the shredded cabbage and grated carrots in a large mixing bowl, ensuring they are dry and ready for mixing to maintain their crispness.
Make the Dressing
With the vegetables prepped, we move on to creating the signature tangy dressing that defines Cracker Barrel coleslaw. In a separate medium bowl, combine 1 cup of full-fat mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of unfiltered apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of celery seed, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper.
Using a whisk or wooden spoon, blend the ingredients vigorously until the mixture turns smooth and creamy, with a perfect balance of tang and sweetness that will coat the vegetables evenly. This step takes about 1-2 minutes of whisking – the dressing should have a glossy sheen and a fresh, zesty aroma that hints at the authentic flavor ahead.
Assemble and Chill
We bring everything together to assemble our coleslaw and let the flavors meld. Pour the prepared dressing over the shredded cabbage and grated carrots in the large mixing bowl, then use a wooden spoon or whisk to toss everything gently until the vegetables are fully coated. This ensures each bite delivers a harmonious mix of crunch and creaminess.
For the best results, cover the bowl and chill the coleslaw in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour – or ideally 2-3 hours – to allow the flavors to intensify and the cabbage to soften slightly without losing its fresh snap. Stir once before serving to redistribute the dressing and enjoy the vibrant, refreshing taste.
Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best aspects of our Cracker Barrel coleslaw recipe is its make-ahead convenience, allowing us to prepare it in advance for picnics, barbecues, or family dinners while letting the flavors meld for even greater tangy and creamy appeal. By planning ahead, we ensure the coleslaw retains its fresh crunch and authentic Southern essence without last-minute rush.
Preparing in Advance
To get started, we recommend assembling the coleslaw up to 24 hours before serving. Begin by following our step-by-step instructions from the previous section—prep the vegetables, mix the dressing, and combine everything in a large mixing bowl. Once blended, transfer the coleslaw to an airtight container to preserve its texture and prevent sogginess. This simple step helps the celery seed and apple cider vinegar infuse the cabbage and carrots, enhancing the dish’s vibrant flavors over time.
Storage Guidelines
For optimal results, store the coleslaw in the refrigerator at a consistent temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below. Here’s a quick breakdown of storage times and tips in the table below to keep things clear and organized:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated | Up to 24 hours | Cover tightly to maintain crunch; stir gently before serving to redistribute dressing. |
| Beyond 24 hours | Not recommended | Flavors may dull, and vegetables could wilt; if needed, refresh with a splash of apple cider vinegar. |
Pro Tips for Best Results
We love sharing these make-ahead secrets to elevate your Cracker Barrel coleslaw experience:
- Chill thoroughly: After assembling, refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the dressing coat the vegetables evenly, resulting in a refreshingly crisp bite.
- Avoid over-mixing: When you’re ready to serve, use a gentle fold to prevent the cabbage from becoming mushy, preserving that satisfying crunch we all crave.
- Customize for events: If we’re making a larger batch for a crowd, we scale up ingredients proportionally and divide into smaller containers for easy portioning—just as you would for a restaurant-style side.
By incorporating these tips, we can enjoy a perfectly balanced, homemade coleslaw that’s ready when we are, capturing the iconic taste of Cracker Barrel right in our own kitchen.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Cracker Barrel coleslaw recipe as it’s a simple way to bring authentic Southern flavors to your table. It’s perfect for elevating everyday meals or gatherings.
By making it at home you’ll enjoy fresh ingredients and endless tweaks to suit your taste.
Give it a try and savor the satisfaction of recreating a classic that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for Cracker Barrel coleslaw?
To make this copycat Cracker Barrel coleslaw, you’ll need finely shredded cabbage, coarsely grated carrots, full-fat mayonnaise, unfiltered apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, celery seed, salt, and black pepper. These simple, high-quality ingredients create the creamy and tangy flavor that’s spot-on.
What tools do I need to prepare the coleslaw?
You’ll require a large mixing bowl for combining ingredients, a sharp chef’s knife or mandoline slicer for shredding vegetables, a box grater for carrots, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, and a whisk or wooden spoon for mixing. These tools ensure efficient prep and the perfect texture.
How do I make Cracker Barrel coleslaw step by step?
Start by prepping vegetables: shred cabbage and grate carrots. Mix the dressing with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, celery seed, salt, and pepper. Combine veggies and dressing in a bowl, toss gently, then chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour to let flavors meld. It’s straightforward and ready in minutes.
Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Cracker Barrel coleslaw up to 24 hours in advance. This makes it perfect for picnics or barbecues. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh and allow flavors to develop even more.
How should I store the coleslaw?
Store the coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3-5 days. Chilling helps maintain its crisp texture and enhances the tangy taste, so avoid leaving it out at room temperature for too long.
What tips can help me get the best results?
For the best Cracker Barrel coleslaw, chill it thoroughly before serving to boost flavor, avoid over-mixing to keep veggies crisp, and adjust seasonings to taste. For larger gatherings, double the recipe. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients ensures an authentic, homemade version.