Bread and butter pickle slices are a classic sweet-and-tangy condiment that add a delicious crunch to sandwiches, burgers, and even cheese boards. These pickles are made with cucumbers, onions, and a spiced vinegar-sugar brine that gives them their signature flavor. This recipe offers a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity and is great for preserving summer cucumbers. Quick to make and easy to store, they’re a must-have in any homemade pickle collection.
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients
- 6 cups cucumbers, thinly sliced (preferably pickling cucumbers)
- 1 ½ cups yellow onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup kosher salt
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups white vinegar
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon celery seeds
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers and onions. Sprinkle the kosher salt over them and toss to coat evenly.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to draw out excess moisture. Afterward, drain and rinse thoroughly under cold water. Set aside.
- In a large saucepan, combine sugar, white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Add the drained cucumbers and onions to the saucepan. Return to a boil, then immediately remove from heat.
- Using tongs or a slotted spoon, pack the hot cucumbers and onions into sterilized jars, leaving about ½ inch of headspace. Pour the hot brine over the vegetables to cover.
- Seal jars with lids and allow to cool to room temperature. Store in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving for best flavor. Pickles will keep in the fridge for up to 2 months.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 70
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 370mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 16g
- Protein: 0g
- Vitamin A: 2% DV
- Vitamin C: 4% DV
- Calcium: 1% DV
- Iron: 2% DV
The History of Bread and Butter Pickles
Bread and butter pickles have a rich culinary history dating back to the early 20th century in the United States. The name reportedly comes from the simple pairing of bread, butter, and these sweet and tangy pickles served together as a snack or sandwich accompaniment. They became popular as a way to preserve cucumbers during the summer harvest, allowing families to enjoy fresh flavors year-round. Over time, the recipe evolved to include a balance of sugar, vinegar, and spices that give these pickles their characteristic taste.
The Flavor Profile and What Makes It Unique
What sets bread and butter pickles apart is their distinctive sweet-and-sour flavor. Unlike traditional dill pickles, which lean heavily on saltiness and herbaceous notes, bread and butter pickles blend sugar and vinegar with spices like mustard seeds and turmeric. This combination creates a mellow yet vibrant taste with a subtle hint of spice, making them appealing to a wide range of palates. The thin slicing of cucumbers and onions also contributes to their delicate texture and allows the brine to penetrate deeply.
Health Benefits of Bread and Butter Pickles
While pickles are often seen as a flavorful condiment, they can offer some nutritional advantages. Cucumbers themselves are low in calories and provide hydration due to their high water content. The vinegar used in bread and butter pickles contains acetic acid, which may help with blood sugar regulation and digestion. Additionally, the pickling process creates probiotics when fermented, though these particular sweet pickles are typically quick-pickled, so probiotic content may be limited. Moderation is key, however, as the sugar content is relatively high.
Variations to Customize the Recipe
This recipe lends itself well to customization based on personal taste or dietary needs. For a spicier twist, some cooks add more crushed red pepper flakes or even jalapeños. Those looking to reduce sugar can experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, though it changes the flavor profile. Some variations include adding garlic or fresh dill to echo traditional dill pickles. The type of vinegar can also be switched between apple cider and white vinegar to subtly alter the acidity and aroma.
The Importance of Slicing and Texture
The texture of bread and butter pickles is an important aspect of their appeal. Thin slicing ensures that the cucumbers absorb the brine evenly and quickly, resulting in a crisp yet tender bite. Using a mandoline slicer or a very sharp knife helps achieve consistent thickness, which is essential for uniform flavor and texture. Onions are sliced similarly to blend seamlessly with the cucumbers and add a mild sweetness and crunch.
Best Serving Suggestions
Bread and butter pickles are incredibly versatile and can elevate many dishes. They are famously used as a topping on classic deli sandwiches and cheeseburgers, adding a refreshing contrast to rich meats and cheeses. They can also be chopped and mixed into potato salads or used as a tangy garnish on grilled meats and barbecue plates. For a quick snack, try pairing them with cream cheese or cheddar on crackers. Their sweet-tangy flavor also balances spicy dishes well.
Pairing Bread and Butter Pickles with Other Foods
Pairing these pickles with the right foods enhances their flavor impact. They complement fatty or savory ingredients beautifully, cutting through richness with their acidity and sweetness. They work well with cured meats like ham and bacon, creamy cheeses such as Havarti or Monterey Jack, and smoky barbecue items. They also add brightness to simple sandwiches made with turkey or chicken breast. When serving at parties, offering a variety of pickles alongside charcuterie boards is always a crowd-pleaser.
Storage Tips and Shelf Life
Proper storage is crucial to maintain the flavor and safety of bread and butter pickles. Once prepared, they should be stored in sterilized glass jars in the refrigerator, where they will keep well for up to two months. Because this recipe is a quick pickle, not a traditional fermented pickle, refrigeration is necessary to prevent spoilage. If preserved in a water bath canner, they can be shelf-stable for longer periods. Always use clean utensils when handling pickles to avoid contamination.
How to Make Bread and Butter Pickles Ahead of Time
One of the advantages of bread and butter pickles is that they improve with time. Although they can be eaten within 24 hours, allowing them to sit for several days enhances the melding of flavors and deepens the taste. Making them ahead of time also allows for convenient use throughout the week, reducing last-minute meal prep. Keeping them refrigerated ensures crispness and freshness, and jars can be opened and resealed as needed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Bread and Butter Pickles
To ensure the best results, avoid common pitfalls such as using cucumbers that are too large or watery, which can lead to soggy pickles. Over-salting or under-salting can also disrupt the flavor balance. It’s important to rinse the salted cucumbers well to remove excess salt. Additionally, not dissolving the sugar completely or failing to bring the brine to a proper boil may result in less flavorful or improperly preserved pickles. Following precise measurements and instructions yields the best consistency.
The Cultural Impact and Popularity Today
Bread and butter pickles remain a beloved staple in American cuisine, especially in the South and Midwest, where they are often homemade and shared at family gatherings. Their accessibility and simple preparation have helped them endure as a favorite pickle variety. They also appear in commercial production and specialty food markets, showcasing their continued demand. Beyond the U.S., sweet pickles have inspired similar recipes worldwide, underscoring the universal appeal of balancing sweet and tangy flavors.
Conclusion
Bread and butter pickle slices are more than just a condiment—they’re a flavorful tradition that combines simplicity, versatility, and a satisfying crunch. Their sweet and tangy profile enhances a wide range of dishes, from sandwiches and burgers to salads and snacks. Whether made at home or enjoyed from a store jar, these pickles bring a nostalgic yet fresh element to the table. With easy customization options and straightforward storage, bread and butter pickles remain an enduring favorite for pickle lovers everywhere.