Shake Sweet Pickles
Sweet pickles with a tangy, spicy flavor profile, perfect for snacking or adding to dishes. Suitable for those who enjoy homemade preserved vegetables with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash cucumbers and pack them in a gallon jar.
- Add canning salt and fill the jar with apple cider.
- Let sit and soak for 6 weeks.
- After 6 weeks, rinse the cucumbers and cut them finely into the gallon jar.
- Add 5 pounds of sugar, one cup at a time, to the jar.
- Add the mustard seed, celery seed, turmeric, and mace.
- Shake the jar after each layer of sugar until all sugar is used.
- Shake the jar every week for 2 or 3 weeks.
- Open the jar and enjoy the pickles.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh, firm cucumbers and ensure they are thoroughly washed before packing. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar to 4 pounds. Whole mustard seeds can be substituted with ground mustard for a different flavor profile. Adjust the spices to your taste; for instance, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
These sweet pickles make a perfect accompaniment to sandwiches, burgers, or a charcuterie board. They pair beautifully with Quick Cranberry Conserve, adding a sweet and tangy contrast. Serve them alongside cheese or as a topping for salads. For a fun twist, try them in a salad with mixed greens and nuts for added crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store the pickles in the refrigerator after opening the jar to maintain freshness. They can last up to 3 months in the fridge. If you want to enjoy them longer, consider canning them in sterilized jars. To serve, there's no need to reheat; they’re delicious cold right out of the jar.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shake Sweet Pickles contains roughly 44 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.
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 these pickles last once opened?
Once opened, these sweet pickles can last up to 3 months in the refrigerator. It’s important to ensure the jar is tightly sealed after each use to keep them fresh. For long-term storage, consider canning them.
Can I use other types of cucumbers for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of cucumbers, such as pickling cucumbers or English cucumbers. Just ensure they are fresh and firm for the best texture and flavor in the finished pickles.
What can I do if I find the pickles too sweet?
If you find the pickles too sweet, consider using less sugar in your next batch, or try adding more vinegar to balance the sweetness. You can also incorporate additional spices, like garlic or dill, to enhance the flavor profile.
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).