Bread & Butter Pickles

This refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles recipe is a delightful way to enjoy homemade pickles without the need for complicated equipment. These pickles are crisp, sweet, and tangy, perfect for adding a burst of flavor to burgers, sandwiches, or even as a snack on their own. With their quick preparation time, they’re ideal for any occasion, from summer barbecues to cozy family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: You can whip up these pickles in just 30 minutes, making them an easy addition to any meal.
• Crisp and Flavorful: Enjoy the satisfying crunch and the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess in every bite.
• Versatile Use: Pile them on sandwiches, serve with grilled meats, or enjoy them straight from the jar!
• No Canning Required: These refrigerator pickles don’t require any special canning techniques – just prepare and store them in your fridge.
• Long-Lasting Freshness: They keep well in the refrigerator for up to two months, ensuring you have a delicious condiment ready at all times.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Bread and Butter Pickles, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make it enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wide-mouth 1-pint jars
• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Mandoline or sharp knife
• Wooden cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Wide-mouth 1-pint jars: Perfect for packing your pickles tightly while allowing easy access when you want to enjoy some.
• Mandoline or sharp knife: Ensures even slicing of cucumbers and onions for consistent texture and flavor.
• Small saucepan: Used for heating the brine quickly to dissolve sugar and salt effectively.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For the Pickling Brine

• ¾ cup apple cider vinegar
• ¾ cup white vinegar
• ½ cup water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1½ tablespoons kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground turmeric

For the Vegetables

• 1¼ pounds Persian cucumbers (or other mini cucumber or pickling cucumber)
• ¼ cup thinly sliced white or yellow onion

For Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon celery seeds
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds

How to Make Bread & Butter Pickles

Step 1: Prepare the Pickling Brine

1. Place apple cider vinegar, white vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and turmeric in a small saucepan over high heat.
2. Bring to a boil while whisking rapidly until both sugar and salt dissolve.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. If you’re in a hurry, transfer the hot brine into a heat-proof jar or bowl and place it in the fridge or freezer briefly.

Step 2: Prepare Jars

1. Wash two wide-mouth 1-pint jars and their lids with very hot soapy water. Set aside to dry.

Step 3: Prepare Cucumbers & Onion

1. Wash and dry the cucumbers thoroughly.
2. Cut off both ends of each cucumber; discard them.
3. Slice cucumbers into coins about ⅛ thick using a mandoline or knife.
4. Slice onion similarly into ⅛ thick pieces.

Step 4: Pack Jars

1. Divide celery seeds and mustard seeds evenly between both jars.
2. Add cucumbers and onion into each jar tightly but without smashing them.
3. Tap the bottom of each jar gently on a wooden cutting board to settle everything firmly inside.

Step 5: Add Pickling Brine

1. Once cooled, pour the brine over cucumbers until each jar is filled within ½ of the top.
2. Tap jars again gently to remove air bubbles; add more brine if needed to cover vegetables completely.

Step 6: Store in Refrigerator

1. Twist lids tightly onto jars.
2. Turn jars upside down for a few moments then back upright to distribute spices evenly throughout.
3. Store your pickles in the refrigerator where they will last for up to two months!

How to Serve Bread & Butter Pickles

Bread & Butter Pickles are versatile and can elevate a variety of dishes. Their sweet and tangy flavor complements many meals, making them a perfect addition to your culinary creations.

On Sandwiches

• Add slices of Bread & Butter Pickles to any sandwich for a burst of flavor that balances savory ingredients.

With Burgers

• Top your burgers with these pickles to enhance the taste and add a delightful crunch.

In Salads

• Chop the pickles into small pieces and mix them into salads for an unexpected zing.

As a Snack

• Enjoy them straight from the jar as a refreshing snack or appetizer.

With Cheese and Crackers

• Serve alongside your favorite cheeses and crackers for a simple yet tasty appetizer platter.

In Tacos

• Incorporate them into tacos for an exciting twist that contrasts with savory fillings.

How to Perfect Bread & Butter Pickles

To ensure your Bread & Butter Pickles are consistently delicious, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose fresh cucumbers: Select firm, fresh cucumbers for the best crunch and flavor in your pickles.
• Slice evenly: Aim for uniform thickness when slicing cucumbers to ensure they pickle properly and have a consistent texture.
• Cool brine completely: Allow the pickling brine to cool fully before pouring it over the cucumbers; this helps maintain their crispness.
• Pack tightly but gently: When filling jars, pack cucumbers snugly without crushing them to allow flavors to infuse well.
• Use quality spices: Fresh spices can significantly enhance the flavor profile of your pickles, so opt for high-quality seeds.
• Shake well: After adding the brine, shake the jars gently to distribute spices evenly for balanced seasoning.

Best Side Dishes for Bread & Butter Pickles

When serving Bread & Butter Pickles, pairing them with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy, creamy coleslaw pairs perfectly with the tanginess of the pickles.
2. Potato Salad: The creamy texture of potato salad complements the crispness of Bread & Butter Pickles beautifully.
3. Pasta Salad: A zesty pasta salad brightened with vegetables works well as a light side dish alongside pickles.
4. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread balances the tangy flavor of pickles, creating a delightful contrast.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Smoky grilled vegetables provide a hearty side that complements the freshness of the pickles.
6. Deviled Eggs: The richness of deviled eggs pairs nicely with the sweet-tart notes of Bread & Butter Pickles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding pitfalls while making Bread & Butter Pickles ensures they turn out delicious every time.

• Ignoring the cooling process: Failing to let the pickling brine cool completely can lead to soggy pickles. Always allow it to reach room temperature before pouring it over the cucumbers.
• Using the wrong cucumbers: Regular slicing cucumbers can result in mushy pickles. Opt for mini or pickling cucumbers for that perfect crunch.
• Not packing jars tightly: If you don’t pack your jars with cucumbers and onions firmly, they may float above the brine, leading to spoilage. Ensure everything is snugly packed without crushing.
• Skipping the shaking step: Neglecting to shake the jars after adding the brine can leave spices unsettled. Turn the jars upside down and gently shake them to mix the spices evenly.
• Storing improperly: Storing your pickles at room temperature can cause spoilage. Always keep your Bread & Butter Pickles in the refrigerator for optimal freshness.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in clean, airtight jars in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy within 2 months for best flavor and crispness.

Freezing Bread & Butter Pickles

• Freezing is not recommended as it affects texture and flavor.
• For long-term storage, make a new batch instead of freezing.

Reheating Bread & Butter Pickles

• Oven: Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil; warm at low heat until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe container in short intervals, stirring between each until warmed as desired.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Bread & Butter Pickles that can help clarify any doubts.

What are Bread & Butter Pickles?

Bread & Butter Pickles are sweet and tangy pickled cucumbers typically made with vinegar, sugar, and spices. They are great on sandwiches or as a snack!

How long do Bread & Butter Pickles last?

When properly stored in the refrigerator, Bread & Butter Pickles can last up to 2 months. Ensure they’re sealed tightly for maximum freshness.

Can I use regular cucumbers for this recipe?

While you can use regular cucumbers, mini or pickling cucumbers yield better results due to their crisp texture, which holds up well during pickling.

How spicy are these Bread & Butter Pickles?

This recipe is not spicy; it’s more sweet and tangy. However, you can add red pepper flakes if you prefer a kick!

Can I customize my Bread & Butter Pickles?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices or add ingredients like garlic or dill for unique flavors.

Final Thoughts

These Bread & Butter Pickles are not only quick and easy to make but also incredibly versatile! They add a delightful crunch and sweetness to burgers, sandwiches, or even cheese platters. Don’t hesitate to customize them with your favorite spices or vegetables. Enjoy this refreshing recipe today!