There’s something undeniably heartwarming about opening a jar of homemade bread & butter pickles—those crisp, golden slices catching sunlight like little glass memories of grandma’s kitchen. This recipe is pure cozy nostalgia, filled with sweet-tangy goodness and textured crunch that reminds you of leisurely summer afternoons and the simple joy of good food shared with family. It’s easy, forgiving, and full of flavor—perfect for pickle novices and seasoned home cooks alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 pounds crisp cucumbers, sliced about ¼-inch thick (Persian, Japanese, or English work beautifully)
- ½ medium onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon celery seeds
- 2 tablespoons mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust between ¾ to 1½ cups to suit your taste)
- 2 cups white vinegar
- ½ cup water
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Prep the cucumbers
Place cucumber slices in a large bowl and sprinkle with kosher salt. Stir gently once or twice, then let them sit for about 1 hour to draw out excess moisture. - Rinse & dry
Rinse the cucumbers well under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels. For extra crunch, layer them between paper towels or clean kitchen towels and let them rest overnight in the fridge. - Make the brine
In a saucepan, combine the sugar, vinegar, water, celery seeds, mustard seeds, and turmeric. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Let simmer for about 1 minute until fragrant. - Jar the pickles
Pack cucumber and onion slices into clean, sterilized jars. Pour the hot brine over the top until everything is fully submerged. - Seal & cool
For refrigerator pickles, simply close the jars tightly, turn them upside down for 15–20 minutes, then upright again to cool. - Chill and wait
Let the jars sit in the fridge for at least 24 hours before enjoying to allow the flavors to fully develop.
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Condiment / Snack | 30 min + 8 hr rest | 10 min | ~16 | ~15 kcal per slice |
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Use crunchy cucumbers for the best texture—soft ones won’t give you that signature snap.
- Adjust sweetness to your preference by tweaking the sugar amount.
- Storage: Kept in the fridge, these pickles stay fresh and crunchy for 6 months or longer.
- For longer storage: You can process the jars in a hot water bath, though the pickles will soften slightly over time.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy version: Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
- Herby twist: Add a sprig of fresh dill or a clove of garlic to each jar.
- Lower-sugar: Swap part of the sugar for honey or reduce the sugar amount entirely for a tangier pickle.
Serving Suggestions
- On sandwiches and burgers for a sweet-tangy crunch.
- As a snack straight from the jar with cheese and crackers.
- On a charcuterie board to cut through rich, savory flavors.
Conclusion
There’s a special kind of joy in making your own bread & butter pickles—watching humble cucumbers transform into sweet-tangy, crunchy perfection. They’re as perfect for summer picnics as they are for winter sandwiches, and they make wonderful gifts for friends and family. Enjoy every crisp, flavorful bite!