There’s nothing quite like the crunch of freshly made Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles to elevate any meal! As I sliced those crisp cucumbers and inhaled the sweet and tangy aroma wafting from the kitchen, I felt a wave of nostalgia wash over me. This simple, yet utterly satisfying recipe is a delightful nod to Southern tradition – perfect for anyone tired of bland fast food and eager to indulge in homemade goodness.
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create these quick pickles that burst with flavor and vibrant color. Whether you opt for the traditional canning method or choose the easier refrigerator technique, these pickles will bring a refreshing zing to sandwiches, salads, or simply as a crunchy snack. So, grab your jars and let’s get pickling! Your taste buds and your loved ones will thank you.
Why are Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles irresistible?
Crispy texture: Enjoy the satisfying crunch of fresh cucumbers, perfectly soaked in a sweet and tangy brine.
Easy preparation: With minimal effort and no fancy canning techniques, even newbies can create this delightful treat.
Versatile addition: Perfect as a condiment on burgers, a side for charcuterie boards, or as a zesty snack on their own.
Flavor explosion: A blend of sweet, spicy, and aromatic flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing!
Homemade goodness: Embrace the joy of making something delicious from scratch, bringing comfort food to your table. For even more flavor inspiration, consider experimenting with our delicious variation ideas!
Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles Ingredients
For the Pickles
• Pickling Cucumbers – Use English cucumbers for fewer seeds or classic pickling cucumbers for that traditional crunch.
• Sweet Onion Slices – Adds an essential sweetness; red onions can give a unique twist.
• Kosher Salt – Essential for drawing out moisture; avoid table salt for best flavor preservation.
For the Brine
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the brine; adjust to taste for your perfect balance.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Provides a tangy kick; substitute with white wine vinegar if you prefer a milder acidity.
• White Vinegar – Works in harmony with apple cider vinegar for a balanced brine.
• Turmeric – A splash of color that enhances presentation; optional but recommended for visual appeal.
For the Spice Blend
• Whole Mustard Seeds – Introduces a mild heat and flavor; feel free to swap with celery seeds.
• Celery Seeds – Offers an earthy flavor; dill seed can be a delightful substitute.
• Crushed Red Pepper – Adds a touch of spiciness; omit if you prefer a smoother flavor.
• Cinnamon Sticks – Contributes warmth and depth; consider using whole cloves for a unique variation.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re ready to embark on your pickling adventure, creating delicious Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles bursting with flavor!
How to Make Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles
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Slice Cucumbers: Start by slicing the pickling cucumbers into 1/8 inch rounds and quartering the sweet onion. Mix them together in a bowl and sprinkle with kosher salt. Refrigerate for 1-3 hours to draw out the moisture.
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Prepare Jars: While the cucumbers and onions chill, get four clean pint jars ready. Distribute the whole mustard seeds, crushed red pepper, celery seeds, and cinnamon sticks evenly among the jars.
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Rinse Salty Mix: After the cucumbers and onions have soaked, rinse them under cold water to remove excess salt. Divide this flavorful mixture among the jars you prepared.
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Make the Brine: In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, white vinegar, and turmeric. Bring it to a boil and stir until the sugar has completely dissolved.
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Pour Brine Over Veggies: Carefully pour the hot brine over the cucumbers and onions in the jars, ensuring they are fully covered. If needed, add hot water to achieve full coverage.
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Seal and Rest: Seal the jars tightly and let them sit at room temperature for one hour. This is key for enhancing flavor if you’re making refrigerator pickles. If canning, ensure the lids are sealed properly before processing.
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Chill and Enjoy: Place the jars in the refrigerator and allow the pickles to rest for at least 48 hours before devouring for the best flavor experience!
Optional: Serve with your favorite sandwiches or as a tangy snack on their own.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles Variations
Inviting your creativity into this recipe can lead to delightful surprises and a unique twist on a classic favorite!
- Honey Sweetened: Substitute the granulated sugar with honey for a deeper, floral sweetness that beautifully complements the tangy brine.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh dill or basil to the mix for an aromatic flavor boost that’ll brighten every bite and make your pickles sing!
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for those who love a bit of heat in their pickles.
- Apple Twist: Try incorporating thin slices of Granny Smith apples for a refreshing crunch and an interesting sweet-tart flavor contrast.
- Berry Burst: Experiment with flavored vinegars, like raspberry or red wine vinegar, to impart a subtle fruitiness to the pickles for a unique taste experience.
- Garlic Lovers: Toss in crushed garlic cloves for a pungent twist that will elevate the flavor profile and bring a savory complexity to the pickles.
- Quick Fermentation: If you’re up for a little experiment, leave the jars at room temperature for a day or two before refrigerating to create probiotic-rich fermented pickles.
How to Store and Freeze Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles
Fridge: Store your refrigerator bread and butter pickles in airtight jars in the fridge, where they will remain fresh for up to 2 months.
Freezer: While these pickles are best enjoyed fresh, if you must freeze them, ensure they’re in freezer-safe containers, and consume within 6 months for best flavor.
Reheating: Should you decide to use these pickles in cooked dishes, thaw them in the fridge overnight and enjoy them right away for maximum crunch and taste.
Make Ahead Options
Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles are a fantastic choice for meal prep aficionados looking to save time in the kitchen! You can slice the cucumbers and sweet onions, sprinkle them with kosher salt, and refrigerate them for up to 3 hours in advance to draw out moisture and enhance flavor. This step can be done the night before, making it easy to whip up your pickles anytime! Once you’re ready to serve, simply rinse the salted mix, follow the brine-making steps, and pour it over the veggies. For the best flavor, allow the pickles to rest in the refrigerator for at least 48 hours before enjoying. These make-ahead tips ensure you savor every delicious crunch without any last-minute rush!
What to Serve with Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles?
These delightful pickles can transform a simple meal into something special, adding a wholesome crunch and vibrant flavor.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The melty, gooey cheese perfectly complements the tangy sweetness of the pickles, creating harmony in every bite.
- Pulled Pork Tacos: The pickles offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pulled pork, balancing the flavors and enhancing each taco’s taste.
- Classic Burger: Layering these pickles on a juicy burger adds a zesty punch, elevating your backyard cookout to a whole new level.
- Potato Salad: Chop some pickles into your creamy potato salad for an unexpected burst of flavor that brightens the creamy texture.
- Charcuterie Board: Add these pickles to your cheese and meat platter for a pop of color and a tangy crunch that everyone will reach for.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and tangy pickles pair beautifully with smoky baked beans, enhancing the dish’s overall complexity and flavor.
Whether enjoyed as a side or incorporated into your main dish, these refrigerator bread and butter pickles are sure to delight your taste buds!
Expert Tips for Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles
• Maximize Flavor: Allow pickles to rest at room temperature for one hour before refrigerating to enhance the absorption of flavors.
• Correct Salt Usage: Always use kosher salt instead of table salt; table salt can alter the flavor and texture of your refrigerator bread and butter pickles.
• Crunch Preservation: To maintain that coveted crunch, consume the pickles within two months of making. Longer storage may soften them.
• Brine Variations: Feel free to adjust the sugar levels in the brine according to your taste; a little extra can go a long way in sweetening your pickles!
• Clean Jars: Ensure your jars are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized to prevent any contamination. The integrity of your refrigerator pickles starts here!
Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles Recipe FAQs
What cucumbers are best for pickling?
Absolutely! For refrigerator bread and butter pickles, pickling cucumbers or English cucumbers are ideal. Pickling cucumbers are smaller and offer that classic crunch, while English cucumbers have fewer seeds. Choose based on your preference, but both will yield delicious results!
How long can I store refrigerator pickles in the fridge?
Very well! Your homemade refrigerator bread and butter pickles can be stored in the refrigerator for about 2 months. Just make sure they are in airtight jars to keep their flavor fresh and vibrant. After that time, they may still be safe to eat but could lose their crunch and flavor.
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How can I freeze refrigerator pickles?
Yes, you can! To freeze your refrigerator bread and butter pickles, first, pack them into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. They can last up to 6 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to use them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight. Keep in mind that freezing may alter their texture slightly, so they’re best used in cooked dishes or salads.
What if my pickles turn out too salty?
A common concern! If your pickles taste too salty, it could be due to the rinsing step with cold water not being thorough enough. To remedy this, try soaking them in fresh water for about 30 minutes to an hour, then drain and redistribute them into jars. You can also balance out the saltiness during the brine-making step by adding a little more sugar.
Are refrigerator bread and butter pickles gluten-free?
Indeed! This recipe is gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any gluten ingredients. However, always double-check any store-bought products you’ll use (like vinegar) to ensure they align with your dietary needs.
Can I use other types of onions in this recipe?
Absolutely! While sweet onion slices are traditional, feel free to experiment with red onions for a bolder flavor, or even shallots for a more subtle sweetness. These alternatives can add their unique twist to your delicious refrigerator bread and butter pickles!
Homemade Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles You'll Love
Ingredients Â
Equipment
MethodÂ
- Slice cucumbers into 1/8 inch rounds and quarter the sweet onion. Mix together in a bowl and sprinkle with kosher salt. Refrigerate for 1-3 hours to draw out moisture.
- While the cucumbers and onions chill, prepare four clean pint jars. Distribute mustard seeds, crushed red pepper, celery seeds, and cinnamon sticks evenly among the jars.
- After soaking, rinse cucumbers and onions under cold water to remove excess salt. Divide this mixture among prepared jars.
- In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, white vinegar, and turmeric. Bring to a boil and stir until sugar is completely dissolved.
- Carefully pour hot brine over cucumbers and onions in jars, ensuring full coverage. If needed, add hot water.
- Seal jars tightly and let sit at room temperature for one hour to enhance flavor. For canning, ensure lids are sealed properly.
- Place jars in the refrigerator and allow to rest for at least 48 hours for best flavor experience.