Bread and Butter Pickles are a great place to start if you have never made homemade pickles before. These sweet and tangy cucumber pickles have been a favorite in American kitchens for generations. Thinly sliced cucumbers and onions are soaked in a flavorful vinegar brine with sugar and spices, creating a crisp pickle that tastes amazing on burgers, sandwiches, hot dogs, and barbecue plates. The best part is that they require simple ingredients and very little hands-on work.
Main Essence of This Dish
Bread and Butter Pickles are known for their perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. Unlike dill pickles, which have a stronger sour flavor, these pickles are slightly sweet with gentle notes of mustard seed, celery seed, and turmeric. Their crunchy texture and bright flavor make them one of the most versatile homemade condiments you can keep in your refrigerator.
Recipe Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 Minutes |
| Resting Time | 2 Hours |
| Cook Time | 10 Minutes |
| Total Time | 2 Hours 30 Minutes |
| Servings | 16 Servings |
| Category | Condiment / Pickles |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Pickling cucumbers, thinly sliced | 2 pounds |
| Large sweet onion, thinly sliced | 1 |
| Kosher salt | 2 tablespoons |
| Ice cubes | 2 cups |
| White vinegar | 1 1/2 cups |
| Apple cider vinegar | 1/2 cup |
| Granulated sugar | 1 1/2 cups |
| Brown sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Mustard seeds | 1 tablespoon |
| Celery seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground turmeric | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Red pepper flakes | 1/4 teaspoon |
Also Read: Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
How to Make Bread and Butter Pickles
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
Place the sliced cucumbers and onions in a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle the salt over them and toss until evenly coated. Add the ice cubes on top and let everything sit for about 2 hours. This step helps the vegetables stay crisp after pickling.
Step 2: Drain the Vegetables
Drain the cucumber mixture thoroughly and rinse lightly under cold water. Remove any excess moisture before moving on to the next step.
Step 3: Make the Pickling Brine
In a large saucepan, combine the white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, brown sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves.
Step 4: Cook the Cucumbers
Add the drained cucumber and onion mixture to the hot brine. Stir well and cook for about 3 to 5 minutes. The cucumbers should be heated through but still retain their crunch.
Step 5: Fill the Jars
Carefully transfer the cucumbers and onions into clean glass jars. Pour the hot pickling liquid over them until completely covered.
Step 6: Cool and Refrigerate
Allow the jars to cool to room temperature. Seal with lids and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving. The flavor becomes even better after 48 hours.
Also Read: Tuscan Chicken Recipe
Tips for the Best Bread and Butter Pickles
- Use fresh, firm cucumbers for maximum crunch.
- Do not skip the salting and icing step.
- Allow the pickles to rest in the refrigerator for at least one full day.
- Use sterilized jars for longer freshness.
- Add extra red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat.
Serving Ideas
- Layer them on burgers and sandwiches.
- Serve alongside barbecue meats.
- Add them to cheese boards.
- Chop and mix into potato salad.
- Enjoy them straight from the jar as a snack.
Also Read: Angel Food Cake Recipe
Storage Information
Store Bread and Butter Pickles in airtight glass jars in the refrigerator. They are usually at their best after a day or two and can last up to 2 months when kept chilled. Always use a clean fork or spoon when removing pickles from the jar.
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 55 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 13 g |
| Sugars | 11 g |
| Protein | 0.5 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sodium | 280 mg |
Also Read: Avocado Toast Recipe
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular cucumbers?
Yes, but pickling cucumbers produce the crispiest results because they contain less water and have firmer flesh.
How long should I wait before eating them?
You can eat them after 24 hours, but they taste even better after 48 hours in the refrigerator.
Do these pickles need canning?
No. This recipe is designed as a refrigerator pickle recipe and does not require traditional canning.
Why are they called Bread and Butter Pickles?
The name comes from their history as an affordable household staple often served alongside bread and butter during meals.
