Cinnamon Sweet Pickles
Cinnamon Sweet Pickles are a vibrant, spicy-sweet condiment featuring crisp cucumbers infused with cinnamon and a hint of alum. Ideal for snacking or serving alongside hearty dishes, these pickles offer a unique flavor profile that combines sweetness, spice, and a colorful visual appeal. Perfect for holiday gatherings or everyday enjoyments.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and seed the cucumbers, then slice them.
- Soak the sliced cucumbers in a solution of lime and water for 24 hours.
- Prepare a mixture of 1 cup of vinegar, red food coloring, alum, and enough water to cover the cucumbers.
- Simmer the mixture with cucumbers for 2 hours.
- Pour off the pickles and let them cool before storing.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, use fresh, firm cucumbers. If you prefer a less sweet pickle, reduce the sugar to 8 cups and adjust the vinegar to taste. You can substitute the alum with a smaller amount of pickling salt if necessary, but note that this may alter the texture slightly. Adding a pinch of ground cinnamon to the pickling liquid can enhance the cinnamon flavor without the need for additional sticks.
Serving Suggestions
Cinnamon sweet pickles make a delightful addition to any meal. They pair beautifully with sandwiches or can be served alongside a cheese platter. Try them with grilled meats or as a tangy contrast in salads like Cabbage Salad. They also serve as a unique topping for burgers. For a refreshing twist, consider serving them with Easy Sauerkraut Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store the pickles in sterilized jars in the refrigerator. They can last for several months if kept sealed and refrigerated. For best flavor, allow them to sit for at least a week before enjoying. If you have leftovers, they can be enjoyed straight from the jar or added to salads, sandwiches, or charcuterie boards.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cinnamon Sweet Pickles contains roughly 2874 calories, with 30g protein, 373g carbohydrates, and 135g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (90% of the Daily Value), iron (70% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (69% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1690mg per serving (73% 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 other types of vinegar for this recipe?
Yes, you can use apple cider vinegar or white vinegar instead of regular vinegar. However, each type of vinegar will impart a different flavor, so choose one that complements your taste preferences. Apple cider vinegar will add a fruity note, while white vinegar will keep the flavor more neutral.
How do I know when the pickles are ready to eat?
While you can technically eat them after cooling, it's best to let the pickles sit for at least a week in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld and develop fully. The longer they sit, the more intense the flavor will become, so patience is key for the best results.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you want a less sweet pickle, you can reduce the sugar to 8 cups or even less, depending on your taste. Just keep in mind that sugar not only sweetens but also helps with preservation, so make sure to adjust other ingredients accordingly to maintain balance.
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).