Homemade Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing is a sweet, tangy, and velvety addition to any salad, especially those with fresh fruit or leafy greens. Made with simple ingredients like mayo, vinegar, sugar, and poppy seeds, it’s quick to whip up and so much better than store bought!
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Shopping list:
- granulated sugar
- apple cider vinegar
- mayo
- poppy seeds
- onion
- ground mustard
- salt
My Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing is a deliciously sweet and tangy addition to salads, especially those featuring fresh fruit, leafy greens, or grilled chicken.
Made with simple pantry staples, this dressing blends granulated sugar and apple cider vinegar for the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. The addition of mayonnaise gives it a smooth, creamy texture, while poppy seeds add a light crunch and visual appeal that makes every salad feel extra special.
What sets this dressing apart is the flavorful combination of finely minced onion, ground mustard, and a pinch of salt. These ingredients add depth and a subtle savory note that complements the sweet base beautifully.
It comes together in just minutes and can be made ahead for busy weeknights or entertaining. Drizzle it over a spinach and berry salad, toss it with mixed greens and mandarin oranges, or use it as a dip for fresh veggies. However you serve it, this creamy poppy seed dressing is sure to become a favorite!
Looking for more homemade dressing recipes? Try my Garlic Balsamic Vinaigrette or Lemon Dill Vinaigrette!
If you have extra poppy seeds to use, check out this Grapefruit Poppy Seed Bread or Lemon Poppy Seed Bread!
Keep scrolling for the full printable recipe 💙
Recipe tips and substitution ideas:
- This dressing can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days. If you omit the fresh onion, you could refrigerate for longer.
- Try using rice vinegar or white wine vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar.
- If you're not a huge fan of raw onion, add half the amount listed, use onion powder instead or omit completely.
Our favorite kitchen equipment and supplies used with this recipe:
- 6 ounce Mason Jars
- Mason Jar Lids with Silicone Rings
- OXO Good Grips Etched Zester and Grater
- OXO Good Grips 2-Piece Silicone Whisk Set

Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup mayo
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
- 1 teaspoon grated onion
- ½ teaspoon ground mustard
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together all ingredients.
- Cover and refrigerate for one hour before using.
Hot Eats and Cool Reads is not responsible for the outcome of any recipe you try from this blog/website. You may not always have the same results I do due to variations in ingredients, humidity, altitude, cooking temperatures, typos, errors, omissions, or individual cooking abilities.
You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful. I am not a certified nutritionist and make no claims to the contrary. Each individual's dietary needs and restrictions are unique to the individual.
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