There’s nothing quite like the sweet crunch of bread and butter pickles to elevate a sandwich from ordinary to extraordinary. Imagine biting into a fresh ham sandwich, only to be greeted by the tangy goodness of these delightful pickles — it’s like a party in your mouth. Trust me, once you taste them, you’ll want to add these little gems to everything from burgers to cheese boards.

I still remember the first time I tried bread and butter pickles at my grandma’s picnic. The sun was shining, the sandwiches were plentiful, and those pickles stole the show. They were sweet yet tangy, with just the right amount of crunch. Now, every summer, when cucumbers are in season, I make a batch that would make Grandma proud.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These bread and butter pickles are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights
- Their sweet and tangy flavor profile pairs well with countless dishes
- With their vibrant color, they add a pop of visual appeal to any meal
- Enjoy them straight from the jar or as a lively topping on burgers or salads
Every time I whip up a batch of bread and butter pickles, my friends rave about how delicious they are. It warms my heart to see their faces light up!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Cucumbers: Look for firm cucumbers; they should have smooth skin and be free from blemishes for maximum crunch.
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White Vinegar: A key player that balances sweetness with acidity; don’t skimp on quality here.
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Granulated Sugar: This adds the signature sweetness; feel free to adjust based on your preference.
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Onion: Sliced thinly for optimal flavor infusion; use sweet onions for an extra touch of sweetness.
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Sea Salt: Helps draw out moisture from cucumbers for that perfect crunchy texture.
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Spices (mustard seeds, celery seeds): These add depth; experiment with quantities for your preferred flavor profile.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare the Cucumbers: Start by washing your cucumbers thoroughly. Slice them into thin rounds; aim for about 1/4 inch thick so they pickle evenly.
Mix the Brine: In a large pot, combine white vinegar, granulated sugar, sea salt, mustard seeds, celery seeds, and onion slices. Heat over medium until sugar dissolves completely.
Add Cucumbers to Brine: Once your brine is ready and bubbling slightly, stir in your cucumber slices. Ensure they’re well coated; let them soak up all that goodness.
Cool Down Your Pickles: Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool down at room temperature for about 30 minutes before transferring it into jars.
Refrigerate: Seal jars tightly and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before diving in; this allows the flavors to marry beautifully.
Remember: The longer you let these sit in the fridge, the more flavorful they’ll get!
Enjoying homemade bread and butter pickles is not just about flavor but also about creating cherished memories with every crunchy bite. So let’s get cooking!
You Must Know
- Bread and butter pickles are sweet, tangy, and add a delightful crunch
- They elevate sandwiches and burgers, bringing a burst of flavor that transforms every bite
- Their bright color and crunch make them a hit at picnics and barbecues, ensuring everyone goes back for more
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by slicing cucumbers evenly; this ensures uniform pickling. Combine sugar, vinegar, and spices in a pot and simmer before adding cucumbers. This method maximizes flavor infusion while keeping cucumbers crisp.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out white sugar for brown sugar for a deeper flavor. You can also add red pepper flakes for some heat or toss in sliced onions for extra zing. Personal touches make each batch unique!
Storing & Reheating
Store bread and butter pickles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two months. These pickles are best enjoyed cold, so no reheating is necessary – just grab a fork!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the perfect sweetness, adjust sugar levels based on your preference; taste as you go
- Use fresh cucumbers for the best crunch; older cucumbers may become mushy
- Let pickles sit for at least 24 hours before serving to enhance flavors significantly
I remember the first time I made bread and butter pickles; my family devoured them faster than I could jar them! It was an unforgettable summer evening filled with laughter and crunchy snacks.
FAQ
What type of cucumbers should I use for bread and butter pickles?
Use small, firm cucumbers like Kirby or pickling cucumbers for the best texture.
How long do bread and butter pickles need to sit before they’re ready?
Let them sit in the fridge for at least 24 hours to develop full flavor.
Can I adjust the sweetness of my bread and butter pickles?
Absolutely! Adjust sugar levels to suit your taste preferences during preparation.
Bread and Butter Pickles
Bread and butter pickles bring a sweet and tangy crunch that can elevate any meal. Perfect for sandwiches, burgers, or as a delightful snack on their own, these homemade pickles are as easy to make as they are delicious. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you’ll recreate the nostalgic flavors of summer picnics and family gatherings. Get ready to enjoy this refreshing treat that everyone will love!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Preserve
- Method: Refrigerating
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh cucumbers, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 medium sweet onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon celery seeds
Instructions
- Wash cucumbers thoroughly and slice them into 1/4-inch rounds.
- In a large pot, combine white vinegar, granulated sugar, sea salt, mustard seeds, celery seeds, and onion slices. Heat over medium until sugar dissolves completely.
- Add cucumber slices to the brine; stir to coat well.
- Remove from heat and let cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture into jars, seal tightly, and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before enjoying.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg