Easy Bread and Butter Pickles

Easy Bread and Butter Pickles are a delightful treat that brings a burst of flavor to your meals. These pickles are not only easy to make, but they also add a sweet and tangy crunch to sandwiches, burgers, or can be enjoyed straight from the jar. Perfect for summer barbecues or as a creative gift, these refrigerator pickles preserve the essence of fresh cucumbers in a way that is simple and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: You can whip up this recipe in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Flavor: The sweet and tangy profile pairs well with various dishes, enhancing everything from salads to sandwiches.
• Homemade Goodness: Enjoy the satisfaction of crafting your own pickles without any preservatives or artificial ingredients.
• Perfect for Gifting: Share jars of these delicious pickles with friends and family; they make a thoughtful homemade gift!
• Short Shelf Life: These pickles are meant to be eaten fresh within two weeks, ensuring you savor them at their peak flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make Easy Bread and Butter Pickles, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly during the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large container
• Large pot
• Jars with lids
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large container: This is crucial for combining cucumbers and onions with salt. It allows enough space for mixing.
• Large pot: A must-have for boiling the vinegar mixture; it ensures even heating and prevents spills.
• Jars with lids: Proper storage is key! These keep your pickles fresh while allowing easy access.

Ingredients

Easy, refrigerator bread and butter pickles like my mom used to make!

For the Pickles:

• 2 pounds pickling cucumbers, sliced
• 8 pearl onions, sliced
• ¼ cup canning salt
• 2 cups sugar
• 2 cups white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon mustard seed
• 1 teaspoon celery seed
• ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
• A pinch of ground cloves

How to Make Easy Bread and Butter Pickles

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

In a large container, combine the sliced cucumbers, sliced onions, and canning salt. Cover them with crushed ice. Mix well and let the mixture stand for 3 hours. Afterward, drain it, rinse under cold water, and drain again.

Step 2: Make the Brine

In a large pot, combine sugar, white vinegar, mustard seed, celery seed, ground turmeric, and ground cloves. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the drained cucumber mixture into the boiling brine. Stir gently then bring back to a boil.

Step 4: Jar the Pickles

Remove the pot from heat. Carefully ladle the hot pickle mixture into sterilized jars. Make sure to leave some space at the top before sealing.

Step 5: Cool and Store

Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, screw on lids tightly and place them in the refrigerator. These Easy Bread and Butter Pickles are best consumed within two weeks.

Step 6: For Longer Storage (Optional)

If you’d like to store your pickles longer than two weeks, refer to a reliable canning manual or website for proper canning techniques.

How to Serve Easy Bread and Butter Pickles

Easy bread and butter pickles are versatile and can enhance many dishes. They add a sweet, tangy crunch to meals, making them a favorite condiment for various occasions.

As a Topping for Burgers

• Adding these pickles on top of your juicy burger creates an amazing flavor contrast. The sweetness pairs perfectly with savory beef.

On Sandwiches

• Use easy bread and butter pickles in sandwiches for added texture. They work wonderfully in ham or turkey sandwiches.

With Cheese and Crackers

• Serve the pickles alongside cheese and crackers as an appetizer. Their sweet-tart flavor complements rich cheeses beautifully.

In Salads

• Toss some slices into your salads for a pop of flavor. They brighten up green salads or potato salads remarkably well.

As a Snack

• Enjoy these pickles straight from the jar as a tasty snack. They are low in calories and full of flavor!

How to Perfect Easy Bread and Butter Pickles

To ensure your easy bread and butter pickles turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose fresh cucumbers: Fresh, firm cucumbers will yield the best texture and flavor.
• Adjust the sugar: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar slightly without compromising the brine’s balance.
• Use quality vinegar: Opt for good-quality white vinegar for the best taste in your pickles.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference. Adding dill or garlic can provide new flavors.
• Refrigerate promptly: Always cool down your jars quickly before refrigerating to maintain crispness and freshness.
• Store properly: Ensure jars are sealed well in the refrigerator to extend their shelf life.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Bread and Butter Pickles

Easy bread and butter pickles pair well with many side dishes, enhancing their overall taste profile. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Coleslaw
   A creamy coleslaw complements the tangy notes of the pickles, creating a delightful crunch in every bite.

2. Potato Salad
   This classic dish benefits from the addition of sweet pickles, adding layers of flavor that brighten up traditional recipes.

3. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   The sweet charred corn balances beautifully with the tanginess of easy bread and butter pickles, making it a perfect pairing.

4. Baked Beans
   Serve alongside baked beans for a satisfying meal; their sweetness harmonizes with this hearty dish.

5. Deviled Eggs
   Top deviled eggs with chopped pickles for an extra zing that elevates this classic appetizer.

6. Macaroni Salad
   Mix these pickles into macaroni salad for added crunch and flavor; they create a refreshing change to ordinary recipes.

7. Fried Chicken
   Serve easy bread and butter pickles as a side with fried chicken; their acidity cuts through richness wonderfully.

8. Vegetable Platter
   Pair with fresh vegetable sticks for a colorful platter; these pickles serve as a zesty dip alternative!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Bread and Butter Pickles can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls you should watch out for.

• Using the wrong cucumbers: Always opt for pickling cucumbers instead of regular ones. They have fewer seeds and a firmer texture, which makes for better pickles.
• Skipping the salt step: Don’t skip the salting process. It helps draw out excess water from the cucumbers, ensuring your pickles stay crunchy.
• Not using enough vinegar: Ensure you use the right amount of vinegar in your brine. This is essential for flavor and preservation.
• Ignoring sterilization: Always sterilize your jars before adding the pickles. This prevents spoilage and keeps your pickles safe to eat.
• Storing improperly: Make sure to store your pickles in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Easy Bread and Butter Pickles in airtight containers.
• They can last up to 2 weeks when refrigerated.

Freezing Easy Bread and Butter Pickles

• Freezing is not recommended for these pickles as it can change their texture.
• If you do choose to freeze them, use freezer-safe containers and consume within 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Easy Bread and Butter Pickles

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the jar for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Bread and Butter Pickles.

Can I make Easy Bread and Butter Pickles without sugar?

Yes, you can experiment with sugar alternatives or reduce the amount if you prefer less sweetness. However, this will affect the overall taste.

How long do Easy Bread and Butter Pickles last?

When refrigerated properly, they can last up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, consider canning methods.

Can I customize my Easy Bread and Butter Pickles?

Absolutely! You can add spices like dill or garlic for different flavors. Experimenting with spices allows you to tailor them to your taste.

What are some serving suggestions for Easy Bread and Butter Pickles?

They make a great addition to sandwiches, burgers, or as a side dish with grilled meats. Their sweet flavor pairs well with many savory dishes.

Final Thoughts

These Easy Bread and Butter Pickles are not only quick to make but also versatile in their use. You can enjoy them on sandwiches, as a snack, or alongside your favorite meals. Don’t hesitate to personalize this recipe by adding herbs or spices that you love!