If you’re a fan of the crisp, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor of bread and butter pickles, this Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickle Recipe is a must-try! It’s an easy, no-fuss way to make homemade pickles without the need for complicated canning processes. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy fresh, homemade pickles in no time. This guide will take you through the entire process, from ingredients to tips, and even provide you with nutritional information to help you make the best bread and butter pickles.

Ingredients for Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles

Making homemade bread and butter pickles requires just a few simple ingredients. Below is a list of everything you’ll need to get started:

Key Notes:

• Pickling Cucumbers: If you don’t have pickling cucumbers, you can substitute them with small regular cucumbers, but pickling cucumbers will give you the best texture and flavor.
• Vinegar: A combination of white vinegar and apple cider vinegar is used to achieve the tangy and balanced flavor characteristic of bread and butter pickles.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles

Follow these simple steps to make your own homemade bread and butter pickles. It’s a foolproof method that doesn’t require any special equipment or canning experience!

1. Prepare the Cucumbers:

• Slice the Cucumbers: Using a sharp knife or a crinkle cutter, slice your pickling cucumbers into thin, uniform ¼-inch slices. This will ensure your pickles have a perfect texture.
• Salt the Cucumbers: Place the sliced cucumbers in a large shallow bowl. Sprinkle with kosher salt and toss well. Let the cucumbers sit, covered, in the refrigerator for 1 to 1½ hours. This will draw out excess moisture and make them crispier.

2. Rinse the Cucumbers:

• Rinse Thoroughly: After the cucumbers have rested, rinse them under cold water to remove the salt. Drain well to ensure no excess liquid remains.

3. Add the Onion:

• Slice and Add Onion: Thinly slice a sweet onion and mix it with the cucumbers in the bowl. Toss the cucumbers and onions together so they are evenly combined.

4. Make the Brine:

• Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, and ground turmeric.
• Heat the Brine: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir the mixture until the sugar completely dissolves. Bring the brine to a simmer but don’t allow it to boil.

5. Pour the Brine Over the Cucumbers:

• Combine with Cucumbers: Pour the hot brine over the cucumbers and onions. Stir to make sure the cucumbers are well coated.
• Let it Rest: Allow the mixture to sit at room temperature for about 1 hour to let the flavors meld together.

6. Refrigerate:

• Store in Containers: Transfer the cucumbers and brine into airtight containers. You can use large jars or any storage containers you have at home.
• Refrigerate: Place the pickles in the refrigerator and let them chill for at least 24 hours. The pickles will be ready to enjoy after 24 hours, but they will taste even better as they sit for a few days!

Tips for the Perfect Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles

• Use a Crinkle Cutter: If you want your pickles to have that classic look, use a crinkle cutter for the cucumber slices. It’s an easy way to add texture and visual appeal to your pickles.
• Adjust the Sweetness: You can modify the amount of sugar based on your preference for sweetness. If you prefer less sugar, reduce it by 1-2 tablespoons.
• Add Extra Spice: For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the brine, or experiment with other spices such as dill or garlic.
• Long-Term Storage: These refrigerator pickles should be consumed within one month. They are not meant for long-term storage, so avoid canning them. Make sure to keep them refrigerated.
• Pickling Time: While 24 hours of refrigeration is the minimum, the pickles will taste best after a few days as the flavors continue to develop.

Nutritional Facts

Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional content for one cup of Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles (per serving in brine):

Notes:

• High Sugar Content: Bread and butter pickles are on the sweeter side, which explains the high sugar content. Adjust sugar to taste if needed.
• High Sodium: The sodium level is relatively high due to the salt used in the brining process. This can be adjusted by reducing the salt or opting for low-sodium versions of the ingredients.

Reviews from the Community

These homemade bread and butter pickles have garnered great feedback from home cooks everywhere! Here are some reviews from people who have tried and loved this recipe:

• Samantha J.: “I tried this recipe on a whim, and it turned out absolutely delicious! These pickles are the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. They didn’t last long in my house!”
• Mark T.: “This recipe is so easy! I love that it’s a no-canning method. I made them last night, and they’re already gone. Will be making again soon.”
• Rachel P.: “The brine is spot on! I added a bit of extra spice, and it was perfect. Great for burgers and sandwiches. My family couldn’t get enough!”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of pickling cucumbers?

Yes, you can use regular cucumbers in this recipe. However, pickling cucumbers are preferred because they have a firmer texture and better flavor for pickling.

How long do these pickles last in the fridge?

Refrigerator bread and butter pickles can be stored in the fridge for up to one month. Be sure to store them in an airtight container.

Can I make these pickles without sugar?

Sugar is essential for the sweet and tangy flavor of bread and butter pickles. However, you can reduce the sugar amount if you prefer a less sweet pickle.

Can I add other spices to the brine?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other spices such as garlic, dill, or peppercorns to create a custom flavor profile for your pickles.

Conclusion

This Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickle Recipe is an excellent choice for anyone looking to make homemade pickles without the hassle of canning. It’s quick, simple, and yields deliciously sweet, tangy, and crisp pickles that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving them on sandwiches, alongside BBQ, or simply enjoying them as a snack, these pickles are a must-have in your fridge.