Bread & Butter Pickles

This refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles recipe is a quick and easy way to make your own pickles, no fancy equipment required. The fresh-tasting pickles are delightfully crisp, sweet, and tangy. Use them to enhance burgers, sloppy joes, sandwiches, wraps, and countless other dishes. Perfect for barbecues or cozy dinners at home, these pickles will impress your family and friends with their delicious flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can craft these tasty pickles.
• Quick Refrigeration: These pickles chill in the fridge and are ready to enjoy in just a few hours.
• Versatile Flavor: The sweet and tangy taste complements a variety of dishes, making them a great addition to meals.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or spice level to suit your taste preferences.
• Long-lasting Freshness: These pickles can be stored for up to 2 months in the refrigerator without losing their crunch.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Bread and Butter Pickles effectively, gather some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wide-mouth 1-pint jars
• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Mandoline slicer (optional)
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Wide-mouth 1-pint jars: Ideal for packing your cucumbers tightly while allowing easy access when it’s time to enjoy your pickles.
• Small saucepan: Perfect for heating the brine mixture efficiently without requiring large pots or complicated setups.
• Mandoline slicer: Offers uniform slices for your cucumbers, ensuring consistent texture in every bite.

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Ingredients

For the Pickling Brine

• ¾ cup apple cider vinegar
• ¾ cup white vinegar
• ½ cup water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1½ tablespoons kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground turmeric

For the Pickles

• 1¼ pounds Persian cucumbers (or other mini cucumber or pickling cucumber)
• ¼ cup thinly sliced white or yellow onion
• 1 teaspoon celery seeds
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds

How to Make Bread & Butter Pickles

Step 1: Prepare Pickling Brine

1. In a small saucepan over high heat, combine apple cider vinegar, white vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and turmeric.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil while whisking rapidly until the sugar and salt dissolve.
3. Remove from heat and allow it to cool to room temperature. To speed up cooling, transfer the brine into a heat-proof jar or bowl and place it in the fridge or freezer briefly.

Step 2: Prepare Jars

• While the brine cools, wash two wide-mouth 1-pint jars and their lids thoroughly using very hot soapy water. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare Cucumbers & Onion

• Wash and dry the cucumbers thoroughly.
• Cut off both ends of each cucumber and discard them.
• Slice cucumbers into coins about ⅛ thick; you can also use a mandoline for even slices if you have one.
• Slice onion into approximately ⅛ thick pieces as well.

Step 4: Pack Jars

• Divide the celery seeds and mustard seeds evenly between the two jars.
• Add cucumber slices and onion pieces into both jars, packing them tightly without smashing them.
• Tap the bottom of each jar gently on a wooden cutting board or thick towel to settle everything inside securely. Leave about ½ of space at the top of each jar; add more cucumbers if necessary.

Step 5: Add Pickling Brine

• Once cooled to room temperature, pour the brine over cucumbers until filled within ½ of the top.
• Gently tap each jar again on a cutting board to remove any air bubbles. Top off with additional brine if needed to fully cover cucumbers.
• Twist lids tightly onto jars. Turn jars upside down gently, shake lightly to distribute spices evenly. Then turn jars right-side up again and tap once more on a cutting board.

Step 6: Store in Refrigerator

• These quick refrigerator pickles should be stored in the refrigerator where they will remain fresh for up to 2 months. Remember not to store them in your pantry for safe keeping!

How to Serve Bread & Butter Pickles

Bread & Butter Pickles are versatile and can elevate many dishes with their sweet and tangy flavor. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enjoy these homemade pickles.

On Burgers

• Add a few slices on top of your favorite burger for a crunchy, zesty kick that pairs well with beef or turkey patties.

In Sandwiches

• Layer them inside sandwiches or wraps to enhance flavors. They work especially well with chicken salad or deli meats.

With Salads

• Toss sliced pickles into garden salads for an unexpected burst of flavor. They can add a nice contrast to creamy dressings.

As Snack Accompaniment

• Serve them alongside cheese platters or charcuterie boards. Their sweetness balances rich cheeses and cured meats beautifully.

On Tacos

• Use them as a topping for tacos to bring a crunch and tanginess that complements savory fillings like ground beef or grilled chicken.

With Fried Foods

• Pair these pickles with fried foods like chicken tenders or fish sticks. Their acidity cuts through the richness, making each bite more enjoyable.

How to Perfect Bread & Butter Pickles

Creating the perfect Bread & Butter Pickles is all about balance and technique. Follow these tips to ensure your pickles turn out delicious every time.

• Use fresh cucumbers – Fresh, crisp cucumbers make the best pickles. Look for firm mini cucumbers or Persian cucumbers for optimal texture.

• Slice evenly – Aim for uniform thickness when slicing cucumbers and onions. This ensures even pickling and a consistent crunch.

• Adjust sweetness – Feel free to tweak the sugar level based on your taste preferences. Less sugar will yield tangier pickles, while more will enhance sweetness.

• Chill the brine – Allowing the pickling brine to cool completely before pouring it over the cucumbers helps maintain their crispness.

• Pack tightly – When filling jars, pack the cucumbers snugly but not smashed. This prevents floatation and ensures even seasoning.

• Shake before serving – Gently shake the jars after sealing to distribute spices evenly throughout the pickles for maximum flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Bread & Butter Pickles

Bread & Butter Pickles complement various side dishes beautifully, adding brightness and depth of flavor. Here are some fantastic options to pair with them.

1. Coleslaw – A classic crunchy slaw made with cabbage and carrots adds freshness that pairs well with the tangy pickles.

2. Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad provides a rich contrast to the sharpness of the pickles, making it a perfect match at any gathering.

3. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread offers a delightful balance with its mild flavors against the zesty profile of the pickles.

4. Baked Beans – The sweetness of baked beans complements the tanginess of Bread & Butter Pickles, creating a hearty side.

5. Macaroni Salad – Creamy macaroni salad is another great choice; its comforting texture works well alongside crunchy pickles.

6. Grilled Vegetables – Smoky grilled veggies bring out depth in flavor that harmonizes perfectly with sweet-tart pickles.

7. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn enhances any meal, and when paired with pickles, it brings out their vibrant taste even more.

8. Deviled Eggs – These classic hors d’oeuvres are enhanced by adding slices of pickle on top or mixing pickle juice into the filling for added zest.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Bread & Butter Pickles can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that may arise. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Brine Cooling Step: Not allowing the brine to cool can lead to soggy pickles. Ensure the brine is at room temperature before pouring it over your cucumbers.

• Overpacking Jars: Stuffing too many cucumbers into jars can prevent them from absorbing the flavors. Pack them tightly but leave enough space at the top for the brine.

• Neglecting to Remove Air Bubbles: Leaving air bubbles in jars can spoil the pickles faster. Gently tap the jars on a cutting board to release any trapped air.

• Using Non-Pickling Cucumbers: Regular cucumbers may not stay crisp. Opt for mini or pickling cucumbers for better texture and flavor.

• Ignoring Storage Instructions: Storing pickles in a pantry instead of the refrigerator can spoil them quickly. Always keep your Bread & Butter Pickles in the fridge.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep your Bread & Butter Pickles in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 2 months when stored in the refrigerator.
• Always use a clean utensil when scooping pickles out to avoid contamination.

Freezing Bread & Butter Pickles

• Freezing is not recommended for these pickles as it affects their texture.
• If you must freeze, use freezer-safe containers, but expect changes in quality upon thawing.

Reheating Bread & Butter Pickles

• Oven: Place pickles in an oven-safe dish and heat at 350°F until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (15-30 seconds) until desired warmth is achieved.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Bread & Butter Pickles:

What are Bread & Butter Pickles?

Bread & Butter Pickles are sweet and tangy pickled cucumbers, perfect for sandwiches and burgers.

How long do Bread & Butter Pickles last?

When refrigerated, they can last up to 2 months. Always check for signs of spoilage before consuming.

Can I customize my Bread & Butter Pickles?

Yes! You can add spices like dill or garlic for additional flavor. Experiment with your favorite herbs!

Are there any alternatives to sugar in this recipe?

Yes! You can use honey or agave syrup as natural sweeteners if preferred.

How do I make my pickles crunchier?

Using fresh, high-quality cucumbers and ensuring a proper brining time helps maintain crispness.

Final Thoughts

This easy Bread & Butter Pickles recipe offers a delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess that elevates many dishes. Enjoy customizing it with different spices or vegetables to suit your taste! Whether you’re adding them to sandwiches or enjoying them straight from the jar, these quick refrigerator pickles are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.