Southern Bread & Butter Pickles Recipe
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 1 gallon
Category: Pickles, Quick & Easy
These Southern Bread & Butter Pickles are a true family favorite, passed down from my mother-in-law. Every summer, when the cucumbers from our garden start ripening, I know it’s time to make this refreshing, tangy treat. The recipe is simple, yet the pickles are irresistibly crunchy and flavorful. These pickles are the perfect addition to any summer meal, and they last for up to 9 months in the refrigerator — though I can never seem to make them last that long!
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cucumbers | 1 1/2 lbs |
| Onions | 2-3 medium |
| White Sugar | 4 cups |
| Cider Vinegar | 4 cups |
| Turmeric | 1 1/4 tsp |
| Celery Seeds | 1 1/4 tsp |
| Mustard Seeds | 1 1/4 tsp |
| Pickling Salt | 1/2 cup |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 4229.7 kcal |
| Total Fat | 8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.3 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 56,765 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 1029.5 g |
| Fiber | 32 g |
| Sugars | 902.3 g |
| Protein | 39 g |
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and based on the entire recipe yielding 1 gallon of pickles. The final values may vary depending on serving size.)
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Cucumbers and Onions:
- Begin by thoroughly washing the cucumbers. Slice them thinly to allow the pickling liquid to absorb more effectively.
- Peel the onions, slice them, and separate them into individual rings.
-
Pack the Jar:
- Take a clean gallon jar and begin layering the cucumbers and onion rings, alternating between the two. This will help ensure that every bite is packed with flavor.
-
Prepare the Pickling Liquid:
- In a saucepan, combine the white sugar, cider vinegar, turmeric, celery seeds, mustard seeds, and pickling salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it just begins to boil.
-
Combine and Cool:
- Carefully pour the hot pickling liquid over the packed cucumbers and onions in the jar. Make sure the liquid covers the vegetables completely. Place a lid on the jar and allow it to cool to room temperature.
-
Refrigerate:
- Once the pickles have cooled, place the jar in the refrigerator. Let the flavors meld together by allowing the pickles to sit for at least 24 hours before eating. These pickles can be stored for up to 9 months in the refrigerator.
Pro Tip: The number of cucumbers used can vary depending on their size, so the amount might slightly differ. Just ensure the jar is packed tightly for the best result.
Why You’ll Love These Pickles:
These Southern Bread & Butter Pickles are the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, and the crunchy texture makes them a delightful snack or a great accompaniment to any dish. The use of celery and mustard seeds adds a subtle depth of flavor that enhances the classic bread and butter pickle experience. With ingredients that are easy to find and a simple method, this recipe is a summer staple you’ll make year after year. The best part? You can enjoy these pickles for months after the cucumbers have faded from the garden!
