Red Cinnamon Rings
Vibrant red cinnamon rings combine crisp cucumber slices with spicy Hot candies and a tangy lime vinegar brine, creating a sweet-tart treat perfect for snacking or garnishing dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and core the cucumbers, then slice into 1/2 inch rings.
- Soak the cucumber rings in lime water for 24 hours.
- Drain and rinse the cucumber rings with clean water until the water runs clear.
- Pour cold water over the rings and cover with ice, then soak for 3 hours.
- Drain the cucumber rings.
- Prepare a brine with 8-1/2 quarts water, 1 cup vinegar, and dehydrated lime.
- Bring the brine to a boil, then add the cucumber rings and cook briefly if desired.
- Add red food coloring and red Hot candies to the mixture for color and flavor.
- Add sugar and vinegar, stirring until sugar dissolves.
- Pour the mixture into sterilized jars and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant color, adjust the amount of red food coloring to your preference. If lime is unavailable, you can substitute with lemon juice to achieve a similar effect. Ensure cucumbers are fresh and firm for the best texture. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce sugar to 8 cups and add a pinch of salt for balance.
Serving Suggestions
Red Cinnamon Rings make a delightful addition to any barbecue or picnic. Serve them alongside grilled meats or as a tangy complement to sandwiches. They also pair beautifully with Bunkhouse Chicken for a complete meal. Consider adding them to a charcuterie board for an interesting contrast with cheeses and crackers.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within a month. To enjoy, simply serve cold as a tangy snack or side. Avoid reheating as this can alter the texture and flavor of the rings.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Red Cinnamon Rings contains roughly 690 calories, with 9g protein, 149g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (104% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), and iron (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 13g 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
Can I use smaller cucumbers for this recipe?
Yes, smaller cucumbers can be used, but you may need to adjust the soaking and cooking times. Ensure they are firm and fresh to maintain the desired crunch in your final product.
How long do the Red Cinnamon Rings need to sit before they're ready to eat?
For optimal flavor, let the rings sit in the brine for at least 1 week before consuming. This allows the flavors to fully develop, making them more enjoyable and delicious.
Can I modify the spice level in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer a spicier version, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the brine. This will enhance the flavor profile while giving it a nice kick.
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).