Bread and butter pickle spears are a classic sweet-and-tangy treat that make the perfect companion to sandwiches, burgers, or just a quick snack right from the jar. Named for their traditional pairing with simple bread and butter, these pickles strike a perfect balance between sugary sweetness and vinegary bite.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 6 small cucumbers (Kirby or pickling cucumbers), quartered lengthwise into spears
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 1/2 cups apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon celery seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 2 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed

Directions

1. Place cucumber spears and sliced onions in a large bowl. Sprinkle with kosher salt, toss to combine, and let sit for 1 hour to draw out moisture. After resting, drain and rinse well under cold water. Set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine apple cider vinegar, sugar, water, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, red pepper flakes (if using), and garlic. Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring to dissolve sugar.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 2–3 minutes to allow spices to bloom.
4. Pack the drained cucumbers and onions into clean mason jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace.
5. Carefully pour the hot brine over the cucumber mixture, ensuring the spears are fully submerged. Let jars cool to room temperature.
6. Seal jars with lids and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving. Flavor improves after 2–3 days.
7. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 25
• Total Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 190mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 6g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 0g
• Vitamin A: 2% DV
• Vitamin C: 4% DV
• Calcium: 1% DV
• Iron: 1% DV

Flavor Profile and Appeal

Bread and butter pickle spears are known for their signature balance of sweet and tangy flavors, making them especially popular with those who enjoy a more nuanced pickle experience than the sharpness of traditional dill. The sweetness comes from the generous amount of sugar in the brine, which is offset by the acidity of apple cider vinegar and the warm earthiness of mustard and celery seeds. The subtle heat from red pepper flakes and the mellow aroma of turmeric round out the flavor, creating a pickle that is simultaneously comforting and vibrant. Their distinct taste makes them enjoyable as a standalone snack or a complementary condiment.

Health Benefits of Cucumbers

At the heart of this recipe are cucumbers, which are naturally low in calories and high in water content. They help with hydration and offer a modest dose of vitamin K, which is important for bone health. Though pickling cucumbers reduces some of their nutritional potency, especially in terms of water-soluble vitamins, they still retain dietary fiber and essential minerals. Because these pickles are not heavily processed or heat-canned, more nutrients remain intact compared to store-bought versions that undergo pasteurization. The inclusion of onions and garlic also adds potential benefits like improved digestion and immune support.

Homemade Versus Store-Bought

Making bread and butter pickle spears at home offers a fresher, customizable alternative to their store-bought counterparts. Many commercial brands include preservatives, artificial colors, or high-fructose corn syrup, whereas homemade versions use simple, whole ingredients. This allows for greater control over sweetness, salt content, and spice levels. Home cooks can avoid additives and adjust the recipe to accommodate dietary needs such as lower sugar or sodium. Additionally, the freshness and crunch of homemade pickles are often superior, thanks to shorter storage times and the absence of long-distance shipping.

Pickling Method and Technique

This recipe uses a refrigerator pickling method, which is much simpler and quicker than traditional water-bath canning. Instead of sterilizing jars and sealing them with heat, the ingredients are submerged in a hot brine and stored cold. This technique is ideal for small batches and beginner picklers who want to avoid complex equipment. Although refrigerator pickles have a shorter shelf life than canned versions, they tend to maintain a crisper texture and more vibrant flavor. Because the cucumbers are not cooked, they retain their structural integrity better, resulting in satisfying crunch with every bite.

Serving Suggestions

Bread and butter pickle spears are incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways. Their sweet and tangy flavor complements savory dishes like pulled pork sandwiches, grilled sausages, or fried chicken. They’re also a popular addition to charcuterie boards, lending a refreshing counterpoint to rich cheeses and cured meats. For a casual snack, they can be enjoyed on their own, or chopped and mixed into egg salad or deviled eggs for added brightness. Their firm texture makes them easy to spear with toothpicks or skewers, making them ideal for party trays or BBQ spreads.

Pairing Ideas

When it comes to pairing, bread and butter pickle spears shine beside foods that benefit from their contrast of sweetness and acidity. Barbecued meats such as brisket or ribs are natural matches, as the pickles help cut through fatty flavors. They also pair well with creamy sides like coleslaw or potato salad. For drinks, try serving them alongside a crisp lager or a mildly sweet iced tea. They can also be paired with savory snacks like cheese-stuffed olives, roasted nuts, or pretzels for a well-rounded appetizer plate. Their flavor pairs equally well with grilled vegetables or veggie burgers, offering a zingy contrast.

Storage Tips

Refrigerator pickles are best stored in clean glass jars with tight-fitting lids. After adding the hot brine, allow the jars to cool at room temperature before refrigerating. Once chilled, they can be safely consumed for up to two months. Always use clean utensils when removing spears to prevent introducing bacteria. If any spears become slimy, discolored, or develop off smells, they should be discarded. For maximum freshness, store jars in the coldest part of your refrigerator and avoid frequent temperature fluctuations. Labeling each jar with a date helps ensure timely consumption.

Recipe Variations

This bread and butter pickle spear recipe can be adapted in many ways to suit different flavor preferences. For those who prefer more heat, additional crushed red pepper or slices of jalapeño can be added to the brine. Alternatively, for a milder version, omit the chili entirely. Some cooks like to add whole cloves, allspice berries, or fresh dill for a more complex herbal note. To reduce the sugar content, a sugar substitute or a smaller sugar-to-vinegar ratio can be used, though the flavor will be less traditional. Slicing the cucumbers into rounds or sandwich chips is another easy variation.

Sustainability and Cost Benefits

Making homemade pickles is not only a fun kitchen project, but also a cost-effective and eco-friendly one. Buying cucumbers in bulk, especially when in season, can dramatically reduce the per-unit cost of pickles compared to store-bought jars. Moreover, using reusable glass jars minimizes packaging waste. Pickling is also a smart way to reduce food waste, as it allows you to preserve cucumbers and other vegetables that might otherwise spoil. If you grow cucumbers in your garden, this recipe provides a satisfying and practical use for surplus produce.

Cultural and Historical Context

Bread and butter pickles have a long-standing place in American culinary tradition, especially in the Midwest and the South. They gained popularity during the Great Depression when home canning became widespread as a way to stretch food budgets. The name is said to have originated from the practice of farmers bartering pickles for basic goods like bread and butter. Over the years, their sweet-and-savory taste made them a mainstay in delis, diners, and backyard cookouts. While their exact origins are debated, their cultural significance is clear—they are a nostalgic, comforting food that bridges generations.

Conclusion

Bread and butter pickle spears offer a delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and mildly spicy flavors that appeal to a wide range of palates. Easy to prepare at home and endlessly adaptable, they provide both nutritional value and culinary versatility. Whether served at a BBQ, packed in a lunchbox, or enjoyed straight from the jar, these pickles bring homemade charm and bold flavor to any occasion. Their rich history, sustainability benefits, and customizable nature make them more than just a side item—they’re a staple worth preserving in any kitchen.