Sweet Cucumber Pickles
Ingredients
- 15 lbs cucumbers, washed and sliced
- 4½ lbs brown sugar, for that deep, molasses-like sweetness
- 3 tsp cinnamon, adding a warm, spicy note
- 2 tsp cloves, for a hint of piquant depth
- 1½ tsp ginger, giving a slightly spicy, peppery zest
- ¾ tsp black pepper, for a subtle spicy kick
- 3 tsp salt, to enhance all the flavors
- 4 cups vinegar, the pickling essential for that tangy punch
Equipment:
- A large pot for the brine
- Canning jars with lids and rings
- A canner or large pot for processing
- A funnel and ladle for jar filling
- A jar lifter or tongs for handling hot jars
Instructions
Prepare the Cucumbers: Begin by washing your cucumbers thoroughly. Slice them according to your preference, but keep in mind that thinner slices will absorb more of the sweet brine. I love slicing them about a quarter-inch thick for the perfect balance of crunch and flavor.
Make the Brine: In a large pot, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, black pepper, salt, and vinegar. Stir well to dissolve the sugar and salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
Add the Cucumbers: Add your sliced cucumbers to the pot, ensuring they're fully submerged in the brine. Let them simmer gently for about 10 minutes, or until they're just tender but still crisp. This step infuses the cucumbers with all the sweet and spicy goodness.
Jar the Pickles: Sterilize your canning jars and lids by boiling them in water for 10 minutes. Using a funnel and ladle, pack the hot cucumbers into the jars, leaving about a half-inch of headspace. Then, pour the hot brine over the cucumbers, maintaining the same headspace.
Seal and Process: Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to ensure a good seal. Place the lids on the jars and tighten the rings. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure they're sealed and shelf-stable.
Cool and Store: Carefully remove the jars from the water and let them cool on a towel or cooling rack. Once cool, check the seals, then label and date the jars. Store them in a cool, dark place. Ideally, wait about two weeks before opening to let the flavors fully develop.
Serving Suggestions: Sweet cucumber pickles are incredibly versatile. Serve them alongside sandwiches and burgers, chop them up for a tangy addition to potato salad, or enjoy them straight from the jar as a refreshing snack. They also make wonderful gifts, bringing a taste of home to loved ones near and far.
Elevate Your Sweet Cucumber Pickles
Here are a few tips and twists to consider:
- Herb Infusions: While our classic recipe is a marvel on its own, infusing your pickles with fresh herbs can add a new dimension of flavor. Try adding sprigs of dill, tarragon, or even mint to the jars before sealing them. Each herb offers a unique taste that can transform the pickles into a custom gourmet treat.
- Spice it Up: If you’re a fan of a little heat, consider adding a few slices of fresh jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to your jars. This spicy kick can balance the sweetness beautifully, giving your pickles a warm, zesty flavor that’s irresistible.
- Sweet and Sour Balance: For those who love playing with flavors, adjusting the sweetness and tanginess can create a whole new pickle experience. Experiment with the brown sugar and vinegar ratios to find your perfect balance. A little more vinegar for extra tang, or a bit more sugar for those sweeter cravings, can make your batch of pickles truly your own.
Engaging with Your Creation
After you’ve made your batch of Sweet Cucumber Pickles, there’s more fun to be had. Here are a few ideas on how to enjoy and share your creation:
- Pickle Tasting Party: Invite friends and family over for a pickle tasting party. Serve various batches of your pickles, each with a different herb or spice, and let your guests vote on their favorite.
- Gift of Pickles: Your homemade pickles make thoughtful, delicious gifts. Decorate the jars with fabric covers, twine, and custom labels to share the love with friends, neighbors, and colleagues.
- Creative Recipes: Beyond the snack plate and sandwich, your sweet cucumber pickles can be a star ingredient in other dishes. Chop them up for a refreshing twist in potato or pasta salad, or blend them into a dressing or sauce for a unique flavor profile.
Remember, the beauty of homemade pickles lies in the journey from cucumber to condiment. Each batch is a chance to tweak, experiment, and ultimately create something that brings joy and flavor to your table. So, embrace the adventure, and let your culinary creativity shine!
Sweet Cucumber Pickles: A Family Tradition Recipe
Making sweet cucumber pickles is a delightful way to spend an afternoon, and the results are absolutely worth the effort. This recipe, passed down through generations, captures the essence of homemade goodness and the joy of sharing food made with love. Whether you’re a seasoned canner or trying your hand at pickling for the first time, this recipe is sure to become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire.
Happy pickling, and may your pantry always be stocked with the sweet taste of summer! 🥒✨
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size: 2 pickles
- Servings Per Recipe: 72
- Calories: 161
% Daily Value
- Total Fat: 1.1g (1% DV)
- Saturated Fat: 0.3g (2% DV)
- Cholesterol: 0mg (0% DV)
- Sodium: 1635mg (71% DV)
- Total Carbohydrates: 39.9g (15% DV)
- Dietary Fiber: 4.5g (16% DV)
- Total Sugars: 28.4g
- Protein: 1.3g
- Vitamin D: 0mcg (0% DV)
- Calcium: 101mg (8% DV)
- iron: 2mg (11% DV)
- Potassium: 237mg (5% DV)
Note: The “% Daily Value” (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Recipe analyzed by verywell.
