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Easy Classic Bread and Butter Refrigerator Pickles

easy classic bread and butter refrigerator pickles - featured image

A simple, sweet and tangy bread and butter pickle recipe that’s quick to prepare and perfect for beginners. These refrigerator pickles offer a crunchy, flavorful addition to sandwiches, burgers, and salads.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 medium Kirby cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup kosher salt
  • 2 cups white vinegar (5% acidity)
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
  • 1 tablespoon celery seeds
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash the cucumbers thoroughly. Slice into 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick rounds using a mandoline or sharp knife. Peel and thinly slice the onion. Transfer both to a large mixing bowl.
  2. Sprinkle 1/4 cup kosher salt evenly over the cucumber and onion slices. Toss gently to combine. Let sit for 1 to 2 hours at room temperature to draw out excess water.
  3. Drain the liquid and rinse the cucumbers and onions thoroughly under cold water to remove excess salt. Drain well and pat dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels.
  4. In a large saucepan, combine 2 cups white vinegar, 2 cups water, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon mustard seeds, 1 tablespoon celery seeds, 1 teaspoon ground turmeric, and 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat.
  5. Tightly pack the cucumber and onion slices into clean quart-sized jars or airtight containers, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top.
  6. Carefully pour the hot vinegar mixture over the cucumbers and onions, making sure they’re fully submerged. Tap the jars gently to release any trapped air bubbles.
  7. Let jars cool to room temperature, then seal tightly with lids and place in the refrigerator. Pickles will be ready after 24 hours but taste better after 3 days.

Notes

Use Kirby cucumbers for best crunch. Adjust sugar to taste if you prefer less sweetness. Toast mustard and celery seeds lightly before adding to brine for extra flavor. Store pickles in the fridge and consume within 2-3 weeks for best quality. Adding crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños can make the pickles spicy.

Nutrition

Keywords: bread and butter pickles, refrigerator pickles, easy pickles, sweet and tangy pickles, quick pickles, homemade pickles, beginner pickling