Sweet Candy Pickles
Sweet Candy Pickles are crisp, sweet, and tangy preserved cucumbers with a glossy finish, perfect for snack lovers and those who enjoy homemade pickles with a sugary twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fill with water and 1 cup of pickling salt for 14 days.
- Drain off and wash the cucumbers.
- Fill with water and 1 tablespoon alum for 24 hours.
- Drain the cucumbers, then fill with vinegar for 24 hours.
- Drain off the vinegar and add 3 cups sugar on the first day.
- Repeat the addition of 3 cups sugar each day for the next two days.
- Leave the cucumbers in the same jar during the process.
- Take out the pickles as you want to serve them.
- Better if they are chilled or kept cool.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra crunch, consider using Kirby cucumbers, which are excellent for pickling. If you want to reduce sugar, try substituting half with a natural sweetener like stevia, but keep in mind it may alter the pickling process. Additionally, you can add spices such as cinnamon or cloves for a unique flavor twist, similar to those found in Sweet Ginger Pickles.
Serving Suggestions
Serve sweet candy pickles as a delightful side to barbecued meats, sandwiches, or as part of a charcuterie board. They also pair beautifully with Dutch Pigs In A Blanket, enhancing the overall flavor experience. For a refreshing twist, include them in salads or as a garnish on burgers.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sweet candy pickles in a sealed jar in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to a month. If you have leftovers, ensure they are submerged in the liquid to maintain their texture. There’s no need to reheat these pickles, as they are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet Candy Pickles contains roughly 444 calories, with 3g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium.
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 can I adjust the sweetness of the pickles?
To adjust the sweetness, you can reduce the amount of sugar added daily, though it’s essential to maintain enough sugar for proper preservation. You might also experiment with different sweeteners, but be cautious as their effectiveness in pickling may vary.
Can I use other vegetables for this recipe?
Yes, while this recipe is specifically for cucumbers, you can use similar techniques for other vegetables like zucchini or carrots. Just ensure they are cut into appropriate sizes to allow for proper brining and flavor absorption.
What can I do if my pickles are too salty?
If your pickles turn out too salty, try soaking them in fresh water for a few hours and then drain. This can help reduce the saltiness while still maintaining the pickles' texture and flavor. Just be sure to check the taste as you go.
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).