Easy Bread and Butter Pickles

Easy Bread and Butter Pickles are a delightful addition to any meal or snack table. These sweet, tangy pickles are super simple to make and perfect for brightening up sandwiches, burgers, or just enjoying straight from the jar. With a quick prep time and minimal ingredients, they bring a taste of nostalgia that everyone will love. Whether you’re having a picnic, a barbecue, or just want to add some flair to your fridge, these pickles are the perfect choice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 15 minutes of active cooking time, you can have delicious pickles ready in no time.
• Versatile Use: These pickles complement various dishes, from sandwiches to salads and everything in between.
• No Canning Required: Simply refrigerate them for a hassle-free pickle-making experience.
• Deliciously Sweet and Tangy: The perfect balance of sweetness and acidity makes these pickles irresistible.
• Family Recipe: This recipe is based on my mom’s classic method, ensuring authentic flavor and memories.

Tools and Preparation

To make Easy Bread and Butter Pickles, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will not only simplify the process but also ensure you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large container
• Large pot
• Ladle
• Jars with lids

Importance of Each Tool

• Large container: This is crucial for mixing the cucumbers and onions with salt evenly.
• Large pot: A must-have for boiling the vinegar mixture; it allows ample space for all ingredients.
• Ladle: Helps in transferring the hot pickle mixture into jars safely.
• Jars with lids: Essential for storing your pickles securely in the refrigerator.

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

For the Brine

• 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 Vegetables

1. In a large container, combine the cucumbers, onions, and salt.
2. Cover with crushed ice and mix well.
3. Let stand for 3 hours.
4. Drain; rinse and drain again.

Step 2: Make the Brine

1. In a large pot, combine the sugar, vinegar, mustard seed, celery seed, turmeric, and cloves.
2. Bring this mixture to a boil.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Add the cucumber mixture into the brine.
2. Return this combined mixture to a boil.
3. Remove from heat once boiling is reached.

Step 4: Jar Them Up

1. Carefully ladle the hot mixture into jars while it’s still warm.

Step 5: Cool Down

1. Let jars cool at room temperature before sealing them with lids.

Step 6: Refrigerate

1. Store your pickles in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
2. If you wish to keep them longer, consult a canning manual or website for proper storage methods.

Enjoy your homemade Easy Bread and Butter Pickles as a tasty side or snack!

How to Serve Easy Bread and Butter Pickles

Easy bread and butter pickles are a delightful snack that can enhance various dishes. Their sweetness and tangy flavor make them a perfect accompaniment to many meals. Here are some serving suggestions to enjoy these delicious pickles.

As a Sandwich Topping

• Enhance your sandwiches – Add a layer of easy bread and butter pickles to any sandwich for a crunchy, flavorful boost.

With Charcuterie Boards

• Perfect pairing – Include pickles in your charcuterie board alongside meats, cheeses, and nuts for an elegant touch.

On Burgers

• A zesty addition – Place a few slices on burgers to introduce a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the meat.

In Salads

• Brighten up salads – Chop the pickles and toss them into salads for added texture and taste.

As a Snack

• Straight from the jar – Enjoy the pickles directly from the jar as a quick, refreshing snack.

With Fried Foods

• Balance fried flavors – Serve alongside fried foods like chicken or fish to cut through the richness with their sweetness.

How to Perfect Easy Bread and Butter Pickles

Making easy bread and butter pickles is simple, but there are ways to ensure they turn out perfectly every time. Consider these tips for best results.

• Use fresh cucumbers – Fresh, crisp cucumbers will give your pickles the best texture and flavor.
• Adjust sweetness – Feel free to tweak the sugar amount based on your preference for sweetness.
• Let them marinate – Allowing your pickles to sit for at least 24 hours enhances their flavor even more.
• Experiment with spices – Try adding other spices like dill or red pepper flakes for a unique twist.
• Sterilize jars properly – Ensure jars are sterilized before filling them to preserve freshness longer.
• Store correctly – Keep them refrigerated in airtight containers for optimal taste.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Bread and Butter Pickles

These easy bread and butter pickles pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider when planning your meals.

1. Coleslaw – A creamy coleslaw adds crunch and complements the sweetness of the pickles.
2. Potato Salad – The creaminess of potato salad balances well with tangy pickles.
3. Deviled Eggs – These classic appetizers go hand-in-hand with pickles’ bright flavors.
4. Macaroni Salad – A chilled macaroni salad offers a satisfying texture alongside sweet pickles.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob – The sweetness of corn pairs nicely with the tangy notes of the pickles.
6. Baked Beans – Serve baked beans as a hearty side that works well with the sharpness of bread and butter pickles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Bread and Butter Pickles can be simple, but some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using the wrong cucumbers: Always choose pickling cucumbers. They are firmer and have fewer seeds compared to regular cucumbers.
• Skipping the ice bath: An ice bath helps keep the cucumbers crisp. Don’t skip this step; it makes a big difference!
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in pickling. Use proper measuring tools to ensure you have the right amounts of salt, sugar, and vinegar.
• Overcooking the mixture: Boil just until the sugar dissolves; overcooking can make your pickles too soft.
• Ignoring storage guidelines: Store pickles in airtight containers in the fridge for freshness. Check for any signs of spoilage before consuming.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Easy Bread and Butter Pickles in clean, airtight jars.
• Keep them refrigerated for up to 2 weeks for best quality.

Freezing Easy Bread and Butter Pickles

• Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture.
• If you must freeze, use freezer-safe containers but expect changes in texture.

Reheating Easy Bread and Butter Pickles

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm pickles in a covered dish for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 15-20 seconds until warmed through. Stir in between.
• Stovetop: Gently heat them in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How long do Easy Bread and Butter Pickles last?

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

Can I use different types of vinegar?

Yes, while white vinegar is traditional, you can experiment with apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile.

What if my pickles are too sweet?

Adjust the sugar next time or add more vinegar to balance the sweetness according to your taste.

Can I add spices to Easy Bread and Butter Pickles?

Absolutely! Customize your recipe by adding spices like dill or red pepper flakes for a unique twist.

Are Easy Bread and Butter Pickles safe to eat after two weeks?

If stored correctly without signs of spoilage, they should be safe; however, always check for off smells or bubbles before consuming.

Final Thoughts

These Easy Bread and Butter Pickles are a delicious addition to any meal or snack. Their sweet and tangy flavor makes them versatile enough for sandwiches, burgers, or even as a side dish. Feel free to customize with your favorite spices or adjust sugar levels to suit your taste! Give this recipe a try—you’ll love how simple it is!