Cinnamon Candy Pickles
Sweet and spicy cinnamon candy pickles combine crunchy cucumbers with a vibrant cinnamon and red hot flavor, perfect as a unique snack or condiment for those who enjoy bold tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add lime to 8 1/2 cups water.
- Add cucumbers and soak for 24 hours.
- Rinse 3 times to remove lime and leave in ice water for 3 hours.
- Drain the cucumbers.
- Combine 1 cup vinegar, alum, and red food coloring. Add cucumbers and cover with water.
- Simmer for 1 hour.
- While mixture is simmering, mix 3 cups vinegar, 3 cups water, 11 cups sugar, cinnamon sticks, and red hots.
- Boil until the sugar and red hots are melted.
- Pour the hot mixture over drained cucumbers and let stand for 12 hours.
- Heat the mixture to boiling.
- Pack the pickles into jars and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a few cinnamon sticks while simmering the cucumbers. If you prefer a less intense sweetness, reduce the sugar to 9 cups. When rinsing the cucumbers, make sure to thoroughly remove the lime to avoid bitterness. For a unique twist, try substituting some of the cucumbers with sliced pears or apples for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Cinnamon candy pickles can be served as a delightful snack or dessert on their own. They pair beautifully with a cheese platter or can be used as an unusual topping for vanilla ice cream. Consider serving them alongside a savory dish like roasted meats for a contrasting sweet flavor that complements the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cinnamon candy pickles in a cool, dark place, ideally in sterilized jars. Once opened, keep them in the refrigerator where they can last for several months. If you want to reheat them for a warm treat, gently warm them in a saucepan over low heat, ensuring not to boil.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cinnamon Candy Pickles contains roughly 2705 calories, with 27g protein, 336g carbohydrates, and 133g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (84% of the Daily Value), iron (57% of the Daily Value), and protein (53% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1633mg per serving (71% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use smaller cucumbers for this recipe?
Yes, you can use smaller cucumbers, but make sure they are firm and fresh. Smaller pickles may require less soaking time, so adjust accordingly. Just ensure they still absorb the sweet and spicy flavors effectively.
How long do these pickles last?
When properly canned and sealed, cinnamon candy pickles can last up to a year in a cool, dark place. Once opened, store them in the refrigerator and consume within 3 to 6 months for the best taste.
What is the purpose of soaking cucumbers in lime?
Soaking cucumbers in lime helps to firm them up, ensuring they maintain a crunchy texture when pickled. It also helps to draw out excess moisture, allowing the pickles to absorb the sweet syrup better.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).