Bread and Butter Pickles

Sweet, tangy, and irresistibly crunchy, these homemade Bread and Butter Pickles are a classic refrigerator pickle recipe that never goes out of style. Thinly sliced pickling cucumbers and sweet onions are soaked in a flavorful blend of vinegars, sugars, and aromatic spices, creating the perfect balance of sweetness and zesty acidity in every bite.

Whether you’re topping juicy burgers, layering sandwiches, serving them alongside barbecue, or simply enjoying them straight from the jar, these easy Bread and Butter Pickles are a delicious way to preserve fresh cucumbers. With simple ingredients and no complicated canning process, they’re a perfect recipe for beginners and seasoned home cooks alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet, tangy, and perfectly crunchy.
• Easy refrigerator pickles with no pressure canning required.
• Made with simple pantry ingredients.
• Perfect for burgers, sandwiches, charcuterie boards, and snacks.
• Flavor improves after chilling overnight.

Ingredients

For the Pickles

• 1½ pounds pickling cucumbers, sliced ¼-inch thick – The crisp, fresh base of the recipe.
• 1½ tablespoons coarse salt – Draws out excess moisture to keep the pickles crunchy.
• 1 cup thinly sliced sweet onion – Adds mild sweetness and extra texture.

For the Pickling Brine

• 1 cup granulated sugar – Creates the signature sweet flavor.
• 1 cup white vinegar – Provides bright acidity and classic pickle tang.
• ½ cup apple cider vinegar – Adds subtle fruity depth and complexity.
• ¼ cup light brown sugar – Brings a gentle caramel richness.
• 1½ teaspoons mustard seeds – Adds traditional pickling flavor with a slight bite.
• ½ teaspoon celery seeds – Contributes a mild herbal note.
• ⅛ teaspoon ground turmeric – Gives the pickles their beautiful golden color and earthy warmth.

How to Make Bread and Butter Pickles

Salt the Cucumbers

Place the sliced cucumbers into a large bowl and sprinkle with the coarse salt.

Toss well to coat, cover the bowl, and refrigerate for 1½ hours.

This step removes excess moisture and helps the cucumbers stay crisp.

Rinse and Prepare

Transfer the cucumbers to a colander and rinse thoroughly under cold running water.

Drain well and return them to the bowl.

Add the sliced sweet onion and gently toss to combine.

Prepare the Pickling Brine

In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, and turmeric.

Heat over medium, stirring frequently until the sugars dissolve completely and the mixture begins to gently simmer.

Combine Everything

Carefully pour the hot pickling brine over the cucumber and onion mixture.

Stir gently to ensure every slice is coated.

Allow the mixture to sit at room temperature for 1 hour, giving the vegetables time to absorb the sweet and tangy flavors.

Chill Before Serving

Transfer the pickles and brine into clean airtight jars or containers.

Refrigerate for 24 hours before serving for the best flavor and texture.

If you’re eager to try them sooner, they’re still delicious after just a few hours of chilling.

Tips for Success

• Choose fresh, firm pickling cucumbers for maximum crunch.
• Slice the cucumbers evenly to ensure consistent pickling.
• Don’t skip the salting step—it helps maintain a crisp texture.
• Allow the pickles to chill overnight for the fullest flavor.
• Always keep the cucumbers submerged in the brine during storage.
• Store only in the refrigerator, as this recipe is not shelf-stable without proper canning.

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Colander
• Medium saucepan
• Wooden spoon
• Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Glass jars or airtight containers with lids

Recipe Variations

Spicy Bread and Butter Pickles

Add crushed red pepper flakes or thinly sliced jalapeños to the brine for a sweet-and-spicy version.

Garlic Bread and Butter Pickles

Add several sliced garlic cloves to each jar for extra savory flavor.

Dill Bread and Butter Pickles

Mix fresh dill sprigs into the jars for a delicious blend of sweet and herbaceous flavors.

Extra Crunchy Pickles

Add a few grape leaves or a pinch of food-grade calcium chloride to help maintain a crisp texture during storage.

Mixed Vegetable Pickles

Include sliced carrots, cauliflower florets, zucchini, or bell peppers for a colorful refrigerator pickle medley.

Serving Suggestions

These homemade Bread and Butter Pickles pair wonderfully with:

• Cheeseburgers
• Grilled chicken sandwiches
• Pulled beef sandwiches
• Hot dogs
• Barbecue platters
• Potato salad
• Charcuterie boards
• Sharp cheddar cheese
• Tuna or chicken salad sandwiches

They’re also a delicious snack straight from the refrigerator.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles last?

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, they stay fresh for up to 1 month.

Do I need to can these pickles?

No. This is a refrigerator pickle recipe and should always be stored chilled rather than at room temperature.

Can I use regular cucumbers?

Yes, although pickling cucumbers stay firmer and produce a much crunchier pickle.

Can I reduce the sugar?

You can reduce it slightly, but the sweetness is one of the defining characteristics of traditional Bread and Butter Pickles and also helps balance the acidity.

Why do I salt the cucumbers first?

Salting removes excess water, allowing the cucumbers to stay crisp while absorbing more of the flavorful brine.

Can I make them spicy?

Absolutely. Add crushed red pepper flakes, sliced jalapeños, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to customize the heat level.

Final Thoughts

These homemade Bread and Butter Pickles are a timeless refrigerator favorite that delivers the perfect combination of sweetness, tanginess, and satisfying crunch. They’re incredibly easy to make, require no special canning equipment, and become even more flavorful after a day in the refrigerator.

Whether you’re preserving a fresh cucumber harvest, preparing for barbecue season, or simply looking for a delicious homemade condiment, this easy Bread and Butter Pickles recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again. Try one of the tasty variations, pair them with your favorite meals, and don’t forget to share your results—we’d love to hear how your homemade pickles turned out!

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