Old-Fashioned Bread and Butter Pickles are a timeless homemade favorite known for their sweet, tangy flavor and crisp texture. Made with fresh cucumbers, onions, vinegar, sugar, and warm spices, these pickles have been loved for generations. They’re perfect for topping sandwiches, burgers, charcuterie boards, or simply enjoying straight from the jar.
Their name is believed to come from hard times when simple bread-and-butter sandwiches were improved with flavorful homemade pickles. Whatever the origin, these classic pickles remain a staple in many kitchens because they are easy to make and incredibly delicious.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Resting Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: About 2 hours 40 minutes
Yield
- About 4 pint jars
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 6 cups pickling cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup pickling or kosher salt
- 2 cups ice cubes
Brine
- 2 cups white vinegar
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon celery seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
Equipment Needed
- Large bowl
- Colander
- Large saucepan
- Sterilized jars with lids
- Knife or mandoline slicer
Instructions
Step 1: Salt the Cucumbers
In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, onions, salt, and ice cubes.
Let sit for 2 hours. This helps draw out excess moisture and keeps pickles crisp.
Step 2: Drain and Rinse
Drain the cucumber mixture in a colander and rinse well under cold water.
Drain thoroughly.
Step 3: Make the Brine
In a large saucepan, combine white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, cloves, and peppercorns.
Bring to a gentle boil, stirring until sugar dissolves.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
Add drained cucumbers and onions to the hot brine.
Simmer for 5 minutes until vegetables are heated through but still crisp.
Step 5: Fill the Jars
Carefully spoon pickles into sterilized jars.
Pour hot brine over the top, leaving about 1/2 inch headspace.
Seal jars with lids.
Step 6: Cool and Chill
Let jars cool to room temperature, then refrigerate.
For best flavor, chill at least 24 hours before eating.
Nutrition Facts (Approx. Per 1/4 Cup)
- Calories: 45
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Sugar: 10g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sodium: varies
Tips for Best Results
- Use fresh firm cucumbers.
- Slice evenly for consistent texture.
- Let flavors develop overnight.
- Store refrigerated for best freshness.
- Use pickling cucumbers if possible.
Variations
Spicy Version
Add red pepper flakes.
Garlic Version
Add sliced garlic cloves to jars.
Less Sweet Version
Reduce sugar slightly.
Dill Twist
Add fresh dill sprigs.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Up to 1 month
- Properly canned versions may last longer if processed safely using approved canning methods.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Bread and Butter Pickles with:
- Sandwiches
- Burgers
- Hot dogs
- Cheese boards
- Fried foods
- Potato salad
Conclusion
Old-Fashioned Bread and Butter Pickles are sweet, tangy, crunchy, and full of nostalgic homemade flavor. Easy to prepare and incredibly versatile, they bring a bright burst of taste to everyday meals and special gatherings alike.
