Bread and Butter Pickles Recipe

If you love tangy, sweet, and crispy pickles with a nostalgic twist, this Bread and Butter Pickles Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s an easy, straightforward take on a classic Southern favorite that transforms simple cucumbers and onions into a jar of irresistible goodness. The balance of vinegar and sugar, combined with warming spices, creates pickles that are perfectly crunchy and bursting with flavor — perfect for sandwiches, snacking, or jazzing up your meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that each bring something special to the final pickles. From the crisp cucumbers that give texture to the mustard seeds adding a subtle spice, every component has its role in crafting that signature Bread and Butter pickle taste.

• 3 pounds crisp cucumbers: Make sure they’re fresh and firm, sliced about 1/4 inch thick for the perfect crunch.
• 1/2 medium onion: Thinly sliced to add a mild, sweet bite that pairs beautifully with the cucumbers.
• 1/4 cup kosher salt (or sea salt): Essential for drawing out excess moisture and tenderizing the veggies.
• 2 cups white vinegar: The backbone of the brine, providing tang and preserving qualities.
• 1/2 cup water: Balances the acidity of the vinegar for a gentle tanginess.
• 1 cup sugar: Adds sweetness that mellows out the vinegar, creating that classic bread and butter flavor profile.
• 2 tablespoons mustard seeds: Infuses a warm, slightly spicy kick that’s subtle but distinctive.
• 1 teaspoon celery seeds: Offers a hint of earthiness and depth.
• 1 teaspoon turmeric: Gives the pickles a lovely golden color and mild, aromatic undertones.

How to Make Bread and Butter Pickles Recipe

Step 1: Salt the Cucumbers and Onions

Start by tossing your sliced cucumbers and onions with the kosher salt in a colander placed over a large bowl or in your sink. This step is crucial because the salt draws out excess water from the veggies, ensuring your pickles stay crisp rather than soggy. Let them sit for 1 to 2 hours. You’ll notice the water released—this is exactly what you want for the best pickle texture.

Step 2: Rinse and Dry Thoroughly

Next, rinse the salted cucumbers and onions very well to wash off the excess salt. Lay them out in a single layer on sheet pans lined with paper towels, then cover the top with more paper towels. Let everything dry overnight. Proper drying helps the pickles soak up the brine’s flavor without becoming watery.

Step 3: Prepare the Brine

Combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, and turmeric in a large saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook until the sugar is completely dissolved. The scent that fills your kitchen now is going to hint at the delicious pickles to come. Once the sugar dissolves, remove the brine from heat and get ready to jar those pickles.

Step 4: Pack and Can the Pickles

Place the dried cucumber and onion slices into sterilized canning jars, packing them snugly but leaving about a half-inch of space at the top. Pour the hot brine over the vegetables until they are fully submerged. Seal the jars according to your lids’ instructions. To ensure a good seal without a hot water bath, turn the jars upside down for 15 to 20 minutes so the hot liquid touches the lids, then flip right side up and allow to cool. When the lids pop, you know your pickles are sealed and ready for refrigeration.

Step 5: Refrigerate and Let Flavors Develop

For best results, chill your Bread and Butter pickles for several days before opening. This resting time lets the flavors meld and deepen, turning your cucumbers and onions into that sweet, tangy treat that makes this recipe so beloved.

How to Serve Bread and Butter Pickles Recipe

Garnishes

A few fresh sprigs of dill or a sprinkle of fresh ground black pepper can add an extra burst of freshness and spice. These simple garnishes complement the sweet and tangy notes of the pickles without overpowering their delicate flavor.

Side Dishes

Bread and butter pickles pair wonderfully with classic American barbecue dishes, sandwiches, and burgers. Their crisp sweetness cuts through rich meats beautifully, while they also brighten up potato salads, coleslaw, or even cheese boards for a well-rounded meal experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering your bread and butter pickles in a sandwich or burger, or chop them finely to mix into deviled eggs or tuna salad for a tangy crunch. You can even use the pickling juice as a zesty dressing or marinade base to add that special pickled flavor to different dishes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once prepared, keep your Bread and Butter Pickles Recipe jars tightly sealed in the refrigerator. They will maintain their best flavor and texture for up to one month. Always use a clean fork or spoon when serving to avoid contamination.

Freezing

Because of the brine and texture, freezing is not recommended for this type of pickles, as it can make them mushy and alter their taste. Stick to refrigeration for storing leftovers to enjoy that optimal crispness.

Reheating

Pickles are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature to retain their crunch and flavor. There’s no need to reheat bread and butter pickles, so just take them straight from the fridge to your plate or sandwich!

FAQs

What makes Bread and Butter pickles different from other pickles?

Bread and Butter pickles are known for their unique balance of sweet and tangy flavors, thanks to the addition of sugar and spices like mustard and celery seeds, which set them apart from more sour or dill-heavy varieties.

Can I use different cucumbers for this recipe?

Yes, but it’s best to stick with firm, fresh cucumbers that are ideal for pickling. Kirby cucumbers or pickling cucumbers work best to ensure a satisfying crunch and taste.

How long do I need to wait before eating my Bread and Butter pickles?

For the full flavor to develop, allow your pickles to chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 to 5 days after making them. The longer you wait, the better they taste!

Do I need to sterilize the jars?

Absolutely! Using sterilized jars and lids is essential for safety and to avoid spoilage. Even if you don’t do a formal canning bath, sterilization keeps your pickles fresh and safe.

Can I reduce the sugar if I want less sweetness?

Yes, you can adjust the sugar amount, but keep in mind that sugar is a key flavor element in this Bread and Butter Pickles Recipe. Reducing it will change the characteristic sweet tang but can be tailored to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about making your own Bread and Butter Pickles Recipe at home. The process is simple, the ingredients are humble, and the result is a jar full of crispy, flavorful pickles that will elevate any meal. Whether you’re a pickling pro or a curious beginner, I encourage you to give this recipe a try and discover just how delightful homemade pickles can be!

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