For years, readers have asked me to unlock the secret behind that famously creamy sauce from Kneaders Bakery Cafe. It’s the magic that makes their Chicken Bacon Avocado sandwich legendary. After countless tests, I’ve perfected a version that captures its soul. Let’s make it together.
This isn’t just another condiment. It’s a delightful, tangy spread that transforms simple ingredients into a memorable meal. My version uses a smart balance of accessible components for that lovely creamy, lightly-yellow color and signature taste.
As a dietitian, I also appreciate its versatility and will show you how to tweak it for various dietary needs. This guide will give you everything you need, from the basic mix to pro tips I’ve gathered over two decades in professional kitchens.
How to Make kneaders Sauce recipe
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Servings: Makes about 1 cup
- Course: Condiment
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup light mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- A pinch of black pepper
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a small bowl.
- Whisk thoroughly until completely smooth and uniform in color.
- For best flavor, cover and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before using.
Nutrition
- Calories: 60 kcal
- Protein: 0.2 g
- Fat: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Sugar: 0.4 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
*Nutrition is per tablespoon and is an estimate.
Cooking Method
- No-cook
- Whisking
Tools Needed
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Airtight storage container
Why This Combination Works So Well
Light mayonnaise creates a rich, stable base without being overly heavy. Sour cream introduces the essential tang that distinguishes this from a plain mayo sauce. Yellow mustard isn’t there for a strong mustard flavor, but for its acidity and emulsifying properties, which brighten the entire profile and help bind everything into a silky texture.
The garlic powder and salt are the quiet workhorses. Garlic powder delivers consistent, mellow flavor without the sharp bite of fresh garlic, which could overpower your sandwich. The salt is crucial for enhancing all these subtle flavors and making them pop on your palate.
Your Go-To Application Guide
While it’s famous for the Chicken Bacon Avocado sandwich, its use extends far beyond. Try it on a turkey club or as a dip for baked goods like sweet potato fries. It’s exceptional on a focaccia bread sandwich with roasted red onions and provolone cheese.
For that iconic copycat sandwich, layer shredded rotisserie chicken, crispy bacon, fresh avocado slices, crisp lettuce, and red onions on your favorite bread. Slather this sauce generously on both slices for the full experience. It’s the key manager of flavors, tying every component together.
Chef’s Notes on Texture and Flavor Development
Resting time is non-negotiable for the best results. The half-hour in the fridge allows the dried garlic powder to fully hydrate and disperse its flavor evenly throughout the sauce. This step mellows the ingredients and lets them marry into a cohesive whole.
If your sauce seems too thick straight from the fridge, let it sit on the counter for five minutes. You can also add a teaspoon of water or lemon juice and whisk again to adjust consistency. Always taste and adjust the seasoning with an extra pinch of salt or pepper after resting, as cold temperatures dull flavor perception.
Intelligent Variations for Every Kitchen
For a dairy-free version, replace the sour cream with a plain, unsweetened vegan yogurt. To make it gluten-free, simply ensure your mustard and other ingredients are certified gluten-free, though they typically are. If you prefer a deeper tang, swap the yellow mustard for Dijon.
In my dietitian practice, clients sometimes ask for lower-sugar options. Be aware that some light mayonnaises may contain added sugars or starches. Reading labels helps you choose one aligned with your goals. For a richer sauce, use full-fat mayonnaise and sour cream, understanding the nutrition will change.
Storing Your Homemade Sauce
Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to five days. I do not recommend freezing it, as the emulsion can break upon thawing, creating a separated, watery texture. The sour cream and mayo base is perishable, so always use clean utensils when dipping to prevent spoilage.
If you notice any liquid separating after a day or two, just give it a good stir. This is normal and doesn’t indicate a problem. Making a batch at the start of the week is a fantastic meal-prep strategy for elevating quick lunches.