Favorite Bread And Butter Pickles
Sweet and tangy bread and butter pickles with bold spices, perfect for snacking or adding flavor to sandwiches. A classic homemade condiment everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put pickling spices and celery seed in a spice bag.
- Combine sugar, vinegar, water, salt, and the spice bag in a pot and bring to a boil.
- Add sliced cucumbers to the boiling mixture and boil for 2 minutes.
- Remove the spice bag from the mixture.
- Fill sterilized jars with the pickled cucumbers.
- Seal the jars and process in a hot water bath for 10 minutes.
- Let the pickles sit for 2 to 3 months before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter pickle, you can increase the sugar slightly. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a few crushed red pepper flakes to the pickling spices. Always ensure your jars are properly sterilized to avoid spoilage. You can also substitute apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
These pickles make a fantastic addition to sandwiches, burgers, or charcuterie boards. They pair wonderfully with grilled meats and can also be enjoyed as a zesty snack on their own. Consider serving them alongside dishes like Methodist Party Mix for a delightful contrast of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store the jars in a cool, dark place for optimal flavor development. Once opened, keep the pickles in the refrigerator, where they can last for several months. If you have leftovers after opening, ensure the pickles are fully submerged in the brine to maintain their crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Favorite Bread And Butter Pickles contains roughly 240 calories, with 6g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (101% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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
How long do the pickles need to sit before they are ready to eat?
For the best flavor, allow the pickles to sit for 2 to 3 months. This time allows the cucumbers to fully absorb the brine and spices, enhancing their taste. If you're in a hurry, you can taste them after a few weeks, but they will be best after the full wait.
Can I use other vegetables for pickling?
Absolutely! While this recipe is for cucumbers, you can experiment with other vegetables like carrots, green beans, or zucchini. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even pickling and adjust the boiling time as needed for different vegetables.
What should I do if my pickles are too salty?
If your pickles turn out too salty, try rinsing them briefly in cold water before serving. You can also balance the saltiness by serving them with sweeter dishes, or incorporate them into recipes like a Fruit Strata Salad where the sweetness can complement their flavor.
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).