If you’ve never tried bread and butter pickles, you’re in for a treat.
These sweet and tangy pickles are the perfect balance of flavor — not too sour, slightly spicy, and just sweet enough to make you come back for more.
Whether you’re adding them to a juicy burger, serving them on a charcuterie board, or munching on them straight from the jar, this bread and butter pickle recipe is a must-have in your kitchen.
The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make at home.
Read More: Bread and Butter Pudding
What Are Bread and Butter Pickles?
Despite the name, bread and butter pickles have nothing to do with either bread or butter.
Their origin dates back to the Great Depression, when these sweet pickles were served between slices of bread and butter as an affordable meal.
Today, they’re a beloved condiment known for their sweet-sour flavor, often paired with sandwiches, fried chicken, or even grilled cheese.
They typically feature sliced cucumbers, onions, and a vinegar-based brine with sugar and pickling spices like mustard seed and turmeric.
Why You’ll Love This Bread and Butter Pickle Recipe
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No canning equipment needed – just a few jars and a saucepan!
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Perfect mix of sweet, tangy, and crunchy
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Made with simple ingredients you likely already have
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Great for gifting or storing in the fridge
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Ideal for burgers, sandwiches, salads, or snacking
Ingredients You’ll Need
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6 cups thinly sliced cucumbers (Kirby or pickling cucumbers work best)
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1 cup thinly sliced onions (yellow or sweet)
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1/4 cup kosher salt
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2 cups granulated sugar
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2 cups white vinegar
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1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
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1 tablespoon mustard seeds
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1 teaspoon celery seeds
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1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
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1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
Instructions: How to Make Bread and Butter Pickles
Step 1: Prep the Cucumbers and Onions
Place sliced cucumbers and onions in a large bowl. Sprinkle with kosher salt and toss to coat. Cover with ice cubes and let sit for 1–2 hours. This helps the vegetables stay crisp.
Step 2: Rinse and Drain
After soaking, drain the cucumbers and onions well and rinse thoroughly under cold water. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Pickling Brine
In a large saucepan, combine sugar, vinegars, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
Step 4: Add the Veggies
Carefully add the drained cucumbers and onions to the hot brine. Simmer for about 5 minutes, just until the cucumbers turn a darker, olive green.
Step 5: Jar and Cool
Pack the hot pickles and brine into sterilized jars. Leave a little space at the top, then seal with lids. Let them cool at room temperature, then refrigerate.
Note: While you can eat them after 24 hours, the flavor improves dramatically after a few days.
Storage Tips
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Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.
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For longer shelf life, you can water-bath can them following proper canning procedures.
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Always use clean utensils when scooping from the jar to avoid contamination.
Delicious Ways to Use Bread and Butter Pickles
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Stack them on burgers and sandwiches
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Chop and mix into tuna or egg salad
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Add to cheese and charcuterie boards
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Serve as a zesty side with BBQ
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Eat them right from the jar — no judgment!
Variations You Can Try
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Add sliced bell peppers for color and sweetness.
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Include garlic cloves for extra flavor.
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Use honey instead of sugar for a natural sweetener.
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Spice them up with jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes.
FAQs About Bread and Butter Pickle Recipes
Why are they called bread and butter pickles?
The name likely came from pairing the pickles with simple bread and butter during tough economic times, making a cheap yet flavorful meal.
Can I use English cucumbers?
Yes, but they have a higher water content, so you may need to soak and drain them longer for a crisp texture.
Do I have to peel the cucumbers?
Nope! The skin adds color and crunch, especially if you’re using small pickling cucumbers.
Can I reduce the sugar?
You can, but it will alter the flavor. Try cutting it by 25–30% and adjust to your taste.
Are these pickles spicy?
Not unless you add red pepper flakes or hot peppers. The base recipe is sweet and tangy.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this homemade bread and butter pickle recipe, you might never go back to store-bought again.
The crisp texture, balanced flavors, and versatility make these pickles a staple worth keeping in your fridge year-round.
Whether you’re a pickle pro or just starting your kitchen adventures, this recipe is fun, simple, and endlessly rewarding.
Recommended Product:
Make the pickling process even easier with the Ball Mason Jar 16oz Wide Mouth 6-Pack — perfect for storing and gifting your homemade pickles.
