Cinnamon Stick Cucumbers
Cinnamon Stick Cucumbers offer a refreshing blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, perfect as a unique pickle or garnish for those who enjoy bold, aromatic tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and slice cucumbers, removing seeds.
- Mix lime powder in 8 1/2 quarts water and pour over cucumbers.
- Let sit for 24 hours, then wash off lime water.
- In a pan, combine 1 cup cider vinegar, red food coloring, alum, and enough water to cover cucumbers.
- Simmer for 2 hours on stove.
- Drain cucumbers and make syrup with vinegar, 2 cups water, sugar, cinnamon sticks, and cinnamon candy.
- Bring syrup to a boil and let sit for 24 hours.
- Place drained cucumbers in jars.
- Pour hot syrup over cucumbers, adding one cinnamon stick in each pint jar.
- Seal the jars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, consider adding additional cinnamon sticks to the syrup or using whole cloves. If you can't find lime powder, you can substitute with a mixture of salt and lemon juice for the initial soaking step. Ensure the cucumbers are fresh and firm for the best texture. This recipe pairs beautifully with Wassail(Warm Spicy Citrus Drink) for a unique holiday treat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these sweet and spicy cucumbers as a delightful side dish at picnics or barbecues. They complement savory dishes well, such as grilled meats or sandwiches. You can also chop them up and add them to salads for a unique twist, or enjoy them alongside Quick Cabbage Soup for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars of Cinnamon Stick Cucumbers in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep them refrigerated and consume within a few weeks for optimal flavor. If you have leftovers, they can be reheated gently in a saucepan, but they are best enjoyed cold as a crunchy snack or side dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cinnamon Stick Cucumbers contains roughly 1490 calories, with 30g protein, 290g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (187% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (100% of the Daily Value), and calcium (79% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1414mg per serving (61% 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 regular cucumbers instead of large ones?
Yes, you can use regular cucumbers, but large cucumbers tend to hold their shape better during the pickling process. If using smaller cucumbers, adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are adequately infused with flavor.
How long do these cucumbers last once opened?
Once opened, the Cinnamon Stick Cucumbers can last in the refrigerator for about 2 to 3 weeks. Always use clean utensils to avoid contamination and ensure they stay fresh longer.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the syrup?
Absolutely! Feel free to reduce the amount of sugar based on your taste preferences. You can also experiment with alternative sweeteners, but keep in mind that it may alter the final flavor and texture of the syrup.
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).