Bakesale Betty Slaw Recipe That Everyone Will Love

Updated On: October 12, 2025

When it comes to classic barbecue sides, nothing quite beats a vibrant, crunchy coleslaw. The “Bakesale Betty Slaw Recipe” is a beloved staple that originated from the famed Bakesale Betty bakery in Oakland, California.

Renowned for their simple yet unforgettable flavors, this slaw recipe perfectly balances tangy, creamy, and slightly sweet notes. It’s an ideal accompaniment for sandwiches, burgers, or any hearty meal where you want a refreshing crunch.

Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or looking to brighten up your weekday dinners, this slaw is a fantastic choice that will quickly become a family favorite.

This recipe boasts fresh, crisp cabbage and carrots tossed in a luscious dressing that’s easy to whip up with pantry staples. If you’ve ever wondered how to make a slaw that’s not soggy and bursting with flavor, Bakesale Betty’s approach is a great place to start.

Plus, it’s incredibly versatile for tweaks based on your personal taste or dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bakesale Betty Slaw is the perfect balance of creamy and tangy, with just the right amount of crunch from fresh veggies. It’s simple, quick to prepare, and uses straightforward ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.

This slaw stands out because it doesn’t rely on heavy mayonnaise or overpowering sweetness. Instead, it’s all about fresh cabbage and carrots dressed in a light, flavorful sauce that complements rather than competes with your main dishes.

It’s also incredibly adaptable—whether you want to add a bit of heat, swap veggies, or make it vegan-friendly, this recipe can handle it.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to add extra veggies to your meal in a delicious way, making it a healthy choice that doesn’t sacrifice taste. Ready to dive in?

Let’s check out the ingredients and equipment you’ll need!

Ingredients

  • 4 cups shredded green cabbage (about half a medium head)
  • 1 cup shredded carrot (about 2 medium carrots)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (for vegan option, use vegan mayo)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds (optional but recommended)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Sharp knife or mandoline slicer for shredding cabbage and carrots
  • Measuring spoons
  • Cutting board
  • Whisk or fork for mixing dressing
  • Serving bowl or airtight container for storage

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vegetables: Start by shredding the green cabbage finely, either by hand with a sharp knife or using a mandoline slicer for even thinness. Peel and shred the carrots, then finely chop the red onion. Place all the shredded veggies into a large mixing bowl.
  2. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, granulated sugar, and celery seeds until smooth and well combined.
  3. Combine the slaw: Pour the dressing over the shredded vegetables. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly to ensure the cabbage and carrots are evenly coated with the dressing.
  4. Season to taste: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference. Mix again gently.
  5. Chill before serving: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the slaw to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally 2-3 hours, to let the flavors meld and the cabbage soften slightly without losing its crunch.
  6. Serve and enjoy: Give the slaw one last toss before serving. This slaw pairs beautifully with grilled sandwiches, barbecue dishes, or even as a crunchy salad side. Store leftover slaw in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days for best freshness.

Tips & Variations

“For a tangier twist, try swapping half the apple cider vinegar for fresh lemon juice – it brightens the flavors wonderfully.”

  • Vegan option: Use your favorite vegan mayonnaise or even a cashew cream alternative for the dressing.
  • Add texture: Sprinkle in toasted sunflower seeds or chopped nuts like pecans for an added crunch.
  • Sweeten it up: If you prefer a sweeter slaw, increase the sugar to 1 ½ teaspoons or drizzle in a little honey or maple syrup.
  • Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely diced jalapeño to the dressing to spice things up.
  • Additional veggies: Try mixing in thinly sliced red cabbage, bell peppers, or thin apple slices for extra color and flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount Per Serving (approx.)
Calories 90 kcal
Carbohydrates 8 g
Protein 1 g
Fat 6 g
Fiber 3 g
Sugar 4 g
Sodium 150 mg

Serving Suggestions

This slaw is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a wide range of dishes. Serve it alongside pulled pork sandwiches or crispy fried chicken for a classic barbecue vibe.

It also works beautifully as a topping for fish tacos or as a crunchy side salad for grilled vegetables.

For a lighter meal, scoop the slaw onto whole-grain crackers or enjoy it as a refreshing contrast in your next sandwich or wrap. Looking for more delicious recipes that complement this slaw?

Check out these favorites:

Conclusion

The Bakesale Betty Slaw Recipe is a timeless classic that elevates any meal with its crisp texture and perfectly balanced dressing. Its simplicity is what makes it so special—fresh, quality ingredients combined with a tangy, creamy dressing create a side dish that’s both comforting and refreshing.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers consistent results that everyone will love.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with the variations to suit your palate, and remember that making a great slaw is about finding the right balance of flavors and textures. Keep this recipe in your culinary arsenal for picnics, potlucks, or just a simple weeknight dinner boost.

For more inspiration in your kitchen, explore other delightful recipes on our site to expand your cooking repertoire and enjoy wholesome, delicious meals every day.

📖 Recipe Card: Bakesale Betty Slaw Recipe

Description: A tangy and crunchy coleslaw perfect for sandwiches or as a side. Combines fresh cabbage with a creamy, slightly sweet dressing.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT15M

Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 4 cups shredded green cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded red cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, celery seed, salt, and pepper.
  3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat evenly.
  4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
  5. Stir the slaw again before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 150 kcal | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 10 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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