old-Fashioned Bread and Butter Pickles – A Sweet and Tangy Family Tradition
There’s something special about recipes that have been passed down through generations, and these Old-Fashioned Bread and Butter Pickles are one of those timeless favorites. I first learned about them from my grandmother, who always had a few jars tucked away in her pantry. As a child, I remember watching her carefully slice fresh cucumbers and onions at the kitchen table while sharing stories about family gatherings and summer gardens. BakedGoods
Last weekend, I decided to make a batch myself, and it instantly brought back those memories. My family was curious about why these pickles had such a loyal following, and after one taste, they understood. The balance of sweetness, tanginess, and crunch was absolutely perfect. We served them alongside burgers and sandwiches, and everyone kept reaching for more.
enever I’m feeling nostalgic or simply want a kitchen project that’s both relaxing and rewarding, I make these pickles. There’s something comforting about transforming a basket of fresh cucumbers into jars of homemade goodness. Whether it’s a lazy weekend afternoon or a busy week when I need a little taste of home, these bread and butter pickles never fail to put a smile on my face.
Why You’ll Love These Old-Fashioned Bread and Butter Pickles
Sweet, tangy, and wonderfully crunchy
Made with simple pantry ingredients
Perfect for sandwiches, burgers, and charcuterie boards
Easy to prepare at home
Great for gifting to friends and family
A classic recipe with nostalgic flavor
Ingredients
6 cups pickling cucumbers, thinly sliced
1 large onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons kosher salt
2 cups ice cubes
2 cups white vinegar
1 cup apple cider vinegar
2 cups granulated sugar
1 tablespoon mustard seeds
1 teaspoon celery seeds
½ teaspoon ground turmeric
¼ teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
Kitchen Tools Needed
Large mixing bowl
Colander
Large saucepan
Measuring cups and spoons
Glass jars with lids
Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
How to Make Old-Fashioned Bread and Butter PicklesStep 1: Prepare the Cucumbers and Onions
Place the sliced cucumbers and onions in a large bowl. Sprinkle with kosher salt and toss well. Add the ice cubes and let the mixture sit for about 1½ to 2 hours. This helps keep the pickles crisp.
Step 2: Rinse and Drain
Drain the cucumber mixture in a colander and rinse thoroughly with cold water. Allow it to drain completely. Cucumbers
Step 3: Make the Pickling Brine
In a large saucepan, combine the white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, and cloves. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
Add the drained cucumbers and onions to the hot brine. Simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are heated through.
Step 5: Fill the Jars
Carefully transfer the cucumber mixture into clean jars. Pour the hot brine over the vegetables, ensuring they are fully covered.
Step 6: Cool and Refrigerate
Allow the jars to cool to room temperature before sealing. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving for the best flavor.
My Favorite Tips for Perfect Pickles
Use fresh, firm pickling cucumbers for maximum crunch.
Slice the cucumbers evenly so they pickle uniformly.
Let the pickles sit for at least a day before tasting.
Sterilize jars if you plan to store them for an extended period.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
Delicious VariationsSpicy Bread and Butter Pickles
Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the brine.
Garlic Lover’s Version
Include a few smashed garlic cloves in each jar for extra flavor. Garlic
Extra Sweet Pickles
Increase the sugar slightly if you prefer a sweeter pickle.
Dill Twist
Add a few sprigs of fresh dill to create a sweet-and-herby variation.
What to Serve with Bread and Butter Pickles
These pickles are incredibly versatile and pair well with: Fruits& Vegetables
Burgers
Pulled pork sandwiches
Grilled hot dogs
Barbecue platters
Cheese boards
Fried chicken
Tuna or chicken salad sandwiches
Last weekend, we served them alongside homemade burgers, and they added the perfect sweet and tangy crunch. Even family members who usually don’t get excited about pickles were asking for extra slices.
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per serving (about ¼ cup):
Nutrient Amount
Calories 45 kcal
Protein 0.3 g
Carbohydrates 11 g
Sugars 10 g
Fiber 0.5 g
Fat 0 g
Sodium 220 mg
Potassium 55 mg
Vitamin C 2 mg