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This Sweet and Spicy Coleslaw Recipe is the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and just a little bit spicy. Fresh shredded cabbage, carrots, and onion are tossed in a homemade dressing made with mayonnaise, mustard, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of cayenne pepper for just the right kick.

It’s the perfect side dish for barbecues, potlucks, summer cookouts, pulled pork sandwiches, fried chicken, or your favorite backyard grilling recipes.

Servings, Prep Time & Cook Time

Servings: 10–12

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Chill Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Why You’ll Love This Sweet and Spicy Coleslaw Recipe

  • Crisp, fresh vegetables
  • Sweet with just the right amount of heat
  • Easy homemade dressing
  • Perfect make-ahead side dish
  • Great for barbecues and cookouts
  • Even better after chilling

Ingredients for Sweet and Spicy Coleslaw

The Fresh Vegetables

2 pounds green cabbage, shredded

4 carrots, shredded

1 onion, finely chopped

Fresh vegetables provide the perfect crunchy base and soak up all of the flavorful dressing.

The Sweet & Spicy Coleslaw Dressing

½ cup mayonnaise

¼ cup mustard

1 cup sugar

2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

Salt, to taste

This creamy homemade dressing delivers the perfect combination of tangy mustard, sweetness, and a subtle spicy finish.

Equipment We Love for This Recipe

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Chef’s knife
  • Box grater or food processor

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SPICY COLESLAW RECIPE
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Sweet and Spicy Coleslaw Recipe

This Sweet and Spicy Coleslaw Recipe is the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and just a little bit spicy. Fresh shredded cabbage, carrots, and onion are tossed in a homemade dressing made with mayonnaise, mustard, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of cayenne pepper for just the right kick.
It's the perfect side dish for barbecues, potlucks, summer cookouts, pulled pork sandwiches, fried chicken, or your favorite backyard grilling recipes.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Chill 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings 10

Ingredients

  • Coleslaw
  • 2 pounds green cabbage shredded
  • 4 carrots shredded
  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • Dressing
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup mustard
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, toss together the shredded cabbage, carrots, and chopped onion.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, mustard, sugar, apple cider vinegar, pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt until smooth.
  • Pour the dressing over the vegetables.
  • Toss until everything is evenly coated.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
  • Toss again before serving.

How to Make Sweet and Spicy Coleslaw

Start by shredding the cabbage and carrots, then finely chop the onion. Add all of the vegetables to a large mixing bowl and toss together until evenly combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, mustard, sugar, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt until the dressing is smooth and creamy.

Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss well so every bite is coated.

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least two hours. Chilling allows the vegetables to soften slightly while the flavors meld together. Give the coleslaw one final toss before serving.

What to Serve with Sweet and Spicy Coleslaw

This flavorful coleslaw pairs perfectly with:

It’s also delicious alongside:

  • Pulled pork sandwiches
  • Smoked brisket
  • BBQ ribs
  • Fried chicken

Storage & Reheating

Storage

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended, as the vegetables will lose their crisp texture.

Reheating

This recipe is served chilled and does not require reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this the day before?

Yes! In fact, the flavor improves after several hours in the refrigerator, making it an ideal make-ahead side dish.

Is this coleslaw very spicy?

No. The cayenne adds a mild kick that balances the sweetness without overwhelming the salad.

Can I use bagged coleslaw mix?

Absolutely. A bagged coleslaw mix is a great shortcut and works perfectly in this recipe.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes. You can adjust the sweetness to your preference while still maintaining the balance of flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Sweet and Spicy Coleslaw Recipe is the perfect side dish for everything from summer barbecues to holiday dinners. With its crisp vegetables, creamy homemade dressing, and just the right amount of heat, it’s a refreshing recipe that’s always a hit at the table.

If you make this recipe, tag us so we can see. We love seeing how you style your food and bring a little Southern hospitality into your home.

Enjoy!

McKaylee & Michele
MckMich Collective