Sugar Pickles
Sweet and tangy sugar pickles feature crisp cucumbers layered with sugar and spices, perfect for those who enjoy homemade preserved snacks with a balanced flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and place whole cucumbers in a glossy stone jar.
- Put salt in 1 gallon of boiled water.
- Pour the salted water over the cucumbers and let stand for 24 hours.
- Pour off the brine; add powdered alum to 1 gallon of hot water. Let stand for 24 hours.
- Pour off the water.
- Add 1 gallon of hot clear water and let stand for 24 hours.
- Pour off the water.
- Boil 1 gallon of vinegar with pickling spices.
- Pour the hot vinegar mixture over the cucumbers and let stand for 9 days.
- Remove cucumbers from vinegar.
- Slice cucumbers into round slices.
- Place slices in jars, layering with sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh, firm cucumbers to ensure crisp pickles. If you prefer a less salty brine, consider reducing the salt in the initial soaking step. You can adjust the sugar amount to taste, depending on how sweet you like your pickles. Additionally, experimenting with different pickling spices can add unique flavors. For a fun twist, try incorporating some dill for a refreshing variation.
Serving Suggestions
Sugar pickles make an excellent side dish or condiment, pairing well with sandwiches, burgers, and barbecued meats. They can also be served alongside cheese platters or charcuterie boards. For a delightful meal, serve with Nancy Sherman'S Mother-In-Law Bean Salad(Sweet And Sour) to create a balanced spread. Their sweet tanginess complements savory dishes beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sugar pickles in a cool, dark place to maintain their flavor and crunch. Once opened, keep the jars in the refrigerator and consume within a few weeks for optimal taste. If you have leftovers, ensure the cucumbers are submerged in liquid to prevent spoilage. These pickles do not require reheating and can be enjoyed straight from the jar.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sugar Pickles contains roughly 450 calories, with 3g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1860mg per serving (81% 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
How long do sugar pickles last?
When properly canned and stored, sugar pickles can last for several months in a cool, dark place. Once opened, it's best to consume them within a few weeks, keeping them refrigerated to maintain freshness and flavor.
Can I use different types of cucumbers for this recipe?
Yes, while traditional pickling cucumbers are recommended for their crunch, you can use other varieties like English cucumbers or Kirby cucumbers. Just ensure they are firm and not overripe for the best texture in your pickles.
What can I do with leftover brine?
Leftover brine can be reused for pickling other vegetables, such as carrots or onions. Alternatively, you can use it as a tangy marinade for meats or in salad dressings. Just ensure it’s still safe to use and hasn't been contaminated.
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).