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Creamy Copycat KFC Coleslaw Recipe Easy Homemade Crunchy Flavor

creamy copycat kfc coleslaw recipe - featured image

This creamy copycat KFC coleslaw recipe replicates the iconic crunchy texture and tangy, creamy dressing of the fast-food classic. It’s quick, easy, and perfect as a refreshing side for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (340 g) finely shredded green cabbage
  • 1 cup (110 g) finely grated carrots
  • ½ cup (120 ml) mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) buttermilk
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) apple cider vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons (8 g) granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon (3 g) salt
  • ¼ teaspoon (1 g) fresh ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon (1.5 g) onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon (0.5 g) celery seed (optional)

Instructions

  1. Finely shred the green cabbage using a box grater or food processor to get about 4 cups (340 g). Grate the carrots until you have about 1 cup (110 g). Place both in a large mixing bowl.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together ½ cup (120 ml) mayonnaise, ¼ cup (60 ml) buttermilk, 2 tablespoons (30 ml) apple cider vinegar, 2 teaspoons (8 g) granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon (3 g) salt, ¼ teaspoon (1 g) black pepper, ½ teaspoon (1.5 g) onion powder, and ¼ teaspoon (0.5 g) celery seed (if using) until smooth and creamy.
  3. Pour the dressing over the shredded cabbage and carrots. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat every strand evenly.
  4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to let flavors meld and cabbage soften slightly while keeping its crunch.
  5. Before serving, stir gently and taste for seasoning. Add more salt or vinegar if desired.

Notes

Chilling the coleslaw for at least 2 hours is crucial for flavor melding and texture. For a dairy-free version, use vegan mayo and unsweetened almond milk with lemon juice instead of buttermilk. Avoid pre-shredded cabbage for best crunch. If coleslaw feels dry after chilling, stir in a splash of buttermilk. Thinly shred cabbage for better dressing cling and crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: KFC coleslaw, copycat recipe, creamy coleslaw, crunchy coleslaw, homemade coleslaw, easy side dish, classic coleslaw