Bread & Butter Pickles

This easy Bread & Butter Pickles recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add a burst of flavor to their meals. With just a few simple ingredients and no fancy equipment required, you can whip up a batch of these sweet and tangy pickles in no time. Ideal for burgers, sandwiches, or as a snack on their own, these refrigerator pickles are sure to impress at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for beginners! You can have delicious pickles ready in just 30 minutes.
• Fresh Flavor: The combination of vinegars and spices creates a bright, zesty taste that enhances any dish.
• Versatile Uses: Great on burgers, in salads, or as a tasty snack—these pickles fit into any meal.
• No Canning Needed: Simply store them in the fridge for up to two months; there’s no need for complicated canning techniques.
• Customizable Recipe: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or spice levels according to your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started, gather the essential tools to make your Bread & Butter Pickles. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure you don’t miss a step.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wide-mouth 1-pint jars
• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Mandoline (optional)
• Heat-proof jar or bowl (for cooling brine)

Importance of Each Tool

• Wide-mouth 1-pint jars: These are perfect for packing your pickles tightly while allowing easy access when serving.
• Small saucepan: Ideal for making the pickling brine quickly and efficiently.
• Mandoline: While optional, this tool ensures even cucumber slices for better texture.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make your own Bread & Butter Pickles:

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

Place apple cider vinegar, white vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and turmeric in a small saucepan over high heat. Bring it to a boil while whisking rapidly until both sugar and salt dissolve. Once done, remove the pan from heat and let it cool to room temperature. If you’re short on time, transfer the hot brine into a heat-proof jar or bowl and refrigerate it until cool.

Step 2: Prepare Jars

While the brine cools down, wash two wide-mouth 1-pint jars along with their lids in very hot soapy water. Set them aside to dry.

Step 3: Prepare Cucumbers & Onion

Wash and dry your cucumbers thoroughly. Cut off the ends of each cucumber and discard them. Slice cucumbers into coins about ⅛ thick—using a mandoline can help with this—or cut them into spears. Slice the onion thinly as well.

Step 4: Pack Jars

Divide celery seeds and mustard seeds between both jars. Add cucumbers and onions tightly without smashing them down. Gently tap the bottom of each jar against a wooden cutting board or thick kitchen towel to settle everything properly. Make sure there’s about ½ space at the top of each jar for brine.

Step 5: Add Pickling Brine

Once your brine has cooled completely, pour it over cucumbers in each jar until filled within ½ of the top. Tap the jars again gently to release any air bubbles. Top off with additional brine if necessary to ensure all cucumbers are covered. Secure lids tightly on jars before shaking lightly upside down to mix spices evenly.

Step 6: Store in Refrigerator

These quick refrigerator pickles should be stored in your fridge where they’ll keep well for up to two months. Remember not to store them in the pantry as they require refrigeration! Enjoy your homemade Bread & Butter Pickles!

How to Serve Bread & Butter Pickles

Bread & Butter Pickles are versatile and can elevate a variety of dishes. Their sweet and tangy flavor pairs well with many meals, making them a delightful addition to your table.

On Burgers

• Juicy beef or turkey burgers: Add a layer of Bread & Butter Pickles for an extra crunch and burst of flavor.
• Veggie burgers: These pickles complement the freshness of vegetable patties beautifully.

In Sandwiches and Wraps

• Classic deli sandwiches: Use them as a topping on ham or turkey sandwiches for added sweetness.
• Wraps: Include them in chicken or veggie wraps to brighten up the flavors.

As Appetizers

• Charcuterie boards: Arrange slices of Bread & Butter Pickles alongside cheeses and meats for an appealing presentation.
• Snack platters: Serve them with crackers or chips for a tasty crunch.

With Salads

• Potato salad: Mix in chopped pickles for a delightful twist on tradition.
• Coleslaw: Incorporate diced pickles into coleslaw for an added zing.

In Tacos

• Fish tacos: Use these pickles as a topping to enhance the flavor profile of your tacos.
• Pork tacos: They add a sweet contrast to spiced meats.

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How to Perfect Bread & Butter Pickles

Perfecting your Bread & Butter Pickles can take your recipe from good to great. Here are some tips to ensure success:

• Use fresh cucumbers: Fresh, crispy cucumbers yield the best texture and flavor in your pickles.
• Slice evenly: Aim for uniform slices (about ⅛ inch thick) to ensure consistent brining and crunch.
• Chill the brine quickly: Speed up cooling by placing it in the fridge or freezer after boiling, which helps preserve the flavors better.
• Pack tightly but gently: Ensure you pack cucumbers snugly without crushing them, which helps maintain their crispness.
• Let them sit before serving: Allow pickles to marinate for at least 24 hours in the refrigerator before enjoying; this enhances their flavor.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other spices like dill or red pepper flakes for unique variations.

Best Side Dishes for Bread & Butter Pickles

Serving Bread & Butter Pickles can be even more enjoyable when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Coleslaw – A creamy or tangy slaw balances well with the sweetness of the pickles.
2. Potato Salad – The richness of potato salad contrasts nicely with the bright flavors of the pickles.
3. Macaroni Salad – This classic dish benefits from a zesty pickle addition for extra flavor.
4. Corn on the Cob – Grilled corn adds a smoky element that pairs excellently with pickled cucumbers.
5. Baked Beans – The sweetness of baked beans complements the tangy notes of Bread & Butter Pickles.
6. French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy fries serve as a perfect vessel for dipping into pickle juices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Bread & Butter Pickles can be simple, but there are common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Ignoring cucumber selection: Not using fresh, crisp cucumbers can lead to soggy pickles. Always choose Persian or pickling cucumbers for the best texture.
• Overcooking the brine: Boiling the brine for too long can affect its flavor and sweetness. Just bring it to a boil until the sugar and salt dissolve, then remove from heat.
• Not packing jars properly: Failing to pack cucumbers tightly may result in uneven brining. Ensure they fit snugly in jars without smashing them.
• Skipping the cooling step: Pouring hot brine over cucumbers can make them mushy. Let the brine cool completely before adding it to your jars.
• Improper storage: Storing pickles outside the fridge will spoil them quickly. Always keep these refrigerator pickles chilled to maintain freshness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Bread & Butter Pickles in clean, airtight jars.
• Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.
• Label jars with the date made for easy tracking of freshness.

Freezing Bread & Butter Pickles

• Freezing is not recommended as it alters texture and flavor.
• These pickles are best enjoyed fresh from the fridge.

Reheating Bread & Butter Pickles

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread pickles on a baking sheet and warm for 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container and heat on high for 30 seconds at a time until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over low heat until just warmed. Avoid boiling.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do Bread & Butter Pickles last?

These pickles can last up to 2 months when stored properly in the refrigerator.

Can I use other types of cucumbers for Bread & Butter Pickles?

Yes, you can use other varieties like Kirby or English cucumbers, but Persian cucumbers yield the best results.

What’s the difference between Bread & Butter Pickles and dill pickles?

Bread & Butter Pickles are sweet and tangy, while dill pickles have a more savory, herbal flavor profile due to dill weed.

Are Bread & Butter Pickles safe to eat after two months?

They are typically safe to eat within two months if stored correctly in the refrigerator. Always check for signs of spoilage before consuming.

Final Thoughts

This easy recipe for Bread & Butter Pickles offers a delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess that elevates burgers, sandwiches, and salads. Feel free to customize with spices or adjust sweetness levels according to your taste preferences. Enjoy making this refreshing addition to your meals!