Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my obsession with bread and butter pickles! These sweet and tangy delights are a staple in my kitchen, and I can’t imagine summer without them. Growing up, my grandma used to make the most amazing batch every year, and I’ve carried on that tradition. There’s just something magical about the crunch of fresh cucumbers mingling with that perfect balance of sugar and vinegar. Trust me, once you try these homemade bread and butter pickles, you’ll understand why they’re the ultimate condiment for sandwiches, burgers, or just snacking right out of the jar!
Ingredients List
Gathering fresh ingredients is the key to making the best bread and butter pickles! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 cups cucumbers, sliced
- 1 cup onions, thinly sliced
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1 tablespoon celery seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon salt
Make sure to use fresh cucumbers for that crispy texture—trust me, it makes all the difference! And if you want a touch more sweetness, feel free to adjust the sugar to your taste. Happy pickling!
How to Prepare Instructions
Okay, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making these amazing bread and butter pickles! It’s super simple, and I promise you’ll love every step of the process. Here’s how to whip up your own batch:
- Start by combining the sliced cucumbers and thinly sliced onions in a large mixing bowl. Just toss them together gently; it’s all about getting them ready for that delicious brine!
- In a medium saucepan, mix together the granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, and salt. Give it a good stir to help dissolve the sugar.
- Now, bring that mixture to a boil over medium heat. You want to see bubbles forming, and the sugar should be completely dissolved. It usually takes about 5 minutes, so keep an eye on it!
- Once it’s boiling, carefully pour the hot mixture over the cucumbers and onions in the bowl. The heat will start to soften the veggies and infuse them with all those yummy flavors.
- Let everything cool down to room temperature—this usually takes about 30 minutes. You don’t want to rush this part; it helps the pickles soak up all that goodness!
- Once cooled, transfer the mixture into clean jars, making sure to include all the liquid. Seal them tightly, and pop them in the refrigerator.
- Now, here’s the hardest part—wait at least 24 hours before digging in! This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. But trust me, the wait will be worth it!
And there you have it! Your very own homemade bread and butter pickles, ready to elevate any meal or snack! Enjoy the crunch and that perfect sweet-tangy punch!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s super quick to prepare—just 25 minutes from start to finish!
- The sweet and tangy flavor is absolutely addictive; they’ll have you coming back for more!
- They make the perfect addition to sandwiches, adding that extra crunch and flavor boost.
- These pickles are fantastic on salads, bringing a delightful twist to your greens.
- They’re perfect for snacking straight from the jar—seriously, they’re hard to resist!
- Homemade means no preservatives, just pure, fresh goodness that you can feel great about.
- They also make a thoughtful gift; who wouldn’t love a jar of these homemade delights?
Trust me, once you try these bread and butter pickles, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them! They’re a true game-changer in the kitchen!
Tips for Success
Alright, my fellow pickle enthusiasts, let’s make sure your bread and butter pickles turn out absolutely perfect! Here are my top tips to elevate your pickling game:
- Use Fresh Cucumbers: This one’s non-negotiable! Fresh, firm cucumbers are key to achieving that satisfying crunch. Look for ones that are bright and firm to the touch—those are your best friends!
- Adjust the Sugar: Everyone’s sweet tooth is different, so don’t hesitate to tweak the sugar to match your taste! If you prefer a sweeter pickle, go ahead and add a little more sugar. If you like it tangy, cut back a bit!
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to get creative! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or throw in a couple of cloves for a different flavor profile. The world is your pickle playground!
- Seal the Jars Properly: When transferring your pickles to jars, make sure they’re sealed tightly. This keeps the brine inside and prevents any funky business from happening. If you’re planning on gifting them, double-check those seals!
- Patience is Key: I know it’s hard, but giving your pickles at least 24 hours in the fridge to sit is crucial. This allows all those flavors to meld beautifully, making them even more delicious!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be a bread and butter pickle pro in no time! Happy pickling, my friends!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to put your own spin on these bread and butter pickles! Here are some variations that’ll keep things exciting and delicious:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a sliced jalapeño to the brine for a delightful heat that complements the sweetness.
- Garlic Infusion: Toss in a couple of smashed garlic cloves when you’re boiling the brine. It adds a wonderful depth of flavor that garlic lovers will adore!
- Herbaceous Twist: Try adding fresh dill or thyme to the mixture. These herbs bring a fresh, aromatic quality that’s simply irresistible.
- Different Vinegars: While apple cider vinegar is a classic choice, you can experiment with white wine vinegar or even rice vinegar for a unique taste profile.
- Mixed Veggies: Don’t limit yourself to just cucumbers and onions! Try adding sliced bell peppers, carrots, or even zucchini for a colorful and crunchy variety!
- Sweet and Spicy: Combine honey with the sugar for a natural sweetness, and add some crushed red pepper for a sweet heat that’ll knock your socks off!
These variations are a great way to make your bread and butter pickles truly your own. So go ahead, get creative, and let your taste buds lead the way! You’ll be amazed at how a little tweak can transform this classic recipe into something entirely new!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your homemade bread and butter pickles is super easy, and the best part is they get even better with time! Here’s how to keep them fresh and delicious:
- Refrigeration: Make sure to store your pickles in airtight jars or containers. This helps maintain their crunch and prevents any unwanted odors from seeping in. Just pop those jars in the fridge!
- Duration: Your bread and butter pickles will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2 months. But let me tell you, they’re so tasty, they might not last that long!
- Enjoying Later: When you’re ready to enjoy your pickles, just grab a jar from the fridge, and they’re ready to go—no reheating needed! They make a fantastic addition to sandwiches, burgers, or even as a zesty topping for salads.
- Check for Freshness: Before diving into your pickles, always give them a quick sniff and look for any signs of spoilage. If they smell off or you see any unusual changes, it’s best to toss them. Safety first!
With these simple storage tips, you’ll always have a jar of delightful bread and butter pickles at your fingertips, ready to elevate any meal or snack! Enjoy every crunchy, sweet-tangy bite!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk about the nutritional side of these delicious bread and butter pickles! Keep in mind that the nutrition values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so consider this more of a guideline than a strict rule. Here’s a typical breakdown for a serving size of 1 tablespoon:
- Calories: 15
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
So, while you’re enjoying these sweet and tangy delights, you can feel good knowing they’re a low-calorie addition to your meals! Just remember, as with any treat, moderation is key. Happy pickling!
FAQ Section
Can I use other types of cucumbers?
Absolutely! While I love using the classic slicing cucumbers, you can also try pickling cucumbers or even English cucumbers. Just make sure whatever you choose is fresh and firm for that perfect crunch!
How long do bread and butter pickles last in the fridge?
These delightful pickles can last up to 2 months in the refrigerator, but trust me, they’ll likely be gobbled up long before that! Just keep them stored in an airtight container to maintain their crispness.
What are some great ways to serve bread and butter pickles?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! They’re fantastic on sandwiches, adding that sweet-tangy kick you didn’t know you needed. They also shine in salads, or just grab a fork and enjoy them straight from the jar. They’re also a perfect accompaniment to cheese platters!
Can I swap out the sugar for a different sweetener?
Yes, you can! If you’re looking to use a different sweetener, honey or agave syrup can work well, though you might need to adjust the amount since they can vary in sweetness. Just keep in mind that it may change the final flavor slightly!
Do I need to sterilize my jars for storage?
For refrigerator pickles like these, it’s not strictly necessary to sterilize the jars, but it’s a good practice to wash them thoroughly and use hot, soapy water. If you want to be extra cautious, you can also run them through the dishwasher before using!
Bread and Butter Pickles: 7 Reasons to Love This Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 cups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Bread and butter pickles are sweet and tangy pickles made from cucumbers, sugar, and vinegar.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cucumbers, sliced
- 1 cup onions, thinly sliced
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1 tablespoon celery seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Combine cucumbers and onions in a bowl.
- In a saucepan, mix sugar, vinegar, and spices.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Pour the hot mixture over the cucumbers and onions.
- Let it cool to room temperature.
- Transfer to jars and refrigerate for at least 24 hours.
Notes
- Pickles can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.
- Adjust sugar to taste for sweetness.
- Use fresh cucumbers for best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Refrigeration
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 15
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: bread and butter pickles, pickles, cucumber pickles
