Old-Fashioned Bread and Butter Pickles are a timeless classic, loved for their perfect balance of sweetness, tanginess, and gentle spice. With their crisp texture and vibrant flavor, these homemade pickles are a delicious addition to sandwiches, burgers, or even enjoyed straight from the jar.
What makes this recipe special is the traditional method—salting and icing the cucumbers to keep them crunchy, followed by a flavorful vinegar brine that infuses every slice. Even better, the taste improves over time, making them ideal for preparing in advance.
Ingredients
8 cups cucumbers, thinly sliced
2 onions, thinly sliced
1/3 cup kosher salt
Ice (enough to cover cucumbers and onions)
2 cups sugar
2 cups vinegar (white or apple cider)
1 tablespoon mustard seeds
1 teaspoon celery seeds
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Slice the cucumbers and onions into thin, even rounds.
Place them in a large bowl and sprinkle with kosher salt.
Cover completely with ice and let sit for 3 hours. This step helps remove excess moisture and keeps the pickles crisp.
Step 2: Rinse and Drain
Drain the mixture thoroughly and rinse lightly with cold water. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Brine
In a large pot, combine:
Sugar
Vinegar
Mustard seeds
Celery seeds
Turmeric
Ground cloves
Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
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