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.

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.

Whenever 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 Pickles

Step 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.

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 Variations

Spicy 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.

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:

• 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):

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are they called bread and butter pickles?

The name is believed to have originated because these sweet pickles were often served with simple bread-and-butter meals during tough economic times.

How long do homemade bread and butter pickles last?

When stored in the refrigerator in airtight jars, they typically stay fresh for up to 2 months.

Can I use regular cucumbers?

Yes, but pickling cucumbers are recommended because they stay crisper after pickling.

Do I need special canning equipment?

For refrigerator pickles, no special canning equipment is required. Simply store them in clean jars in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

These Old-Fashioned Bread and Butter Pickles are more than just a condiment—they’re a little jar of tradition and comfort. Every time I make them, I’m reminded of family recipes, summer afternoons, and the joy of creating something homemade from simple ingredients. Last weekend’s batch disappeared much faster than I expected because everyone loved the sweet, tangy flavor and satisfying crunch.