Bread and Butter Pickle Spears are a nostalgic, tangy-sweet treat that strike the perfect balance between savory crunch and zesty flavor. Unlike dill pickles, these pickles are known for their sweeter profile, infused with vinegar, sugar, and a blend of spices. Cut into spears, they’re perfect for snacking right out of the jar, topping burgers and sandwiches, or serving alongside grilled favorites at barbecues. Their bright yellow-green hue and bold flavor make them a standout on any relish tray or picnic spread.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 6 medium pickling cucumbers (Kirby or Persian), cut into spears
• 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup kosher salt
• 2 cups white vinegar
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon celery seeds
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 2 cups ice cubes

Directions

1. Prep the cucumbers: Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and cut them into spears. Place them in a large bowl with the sliced onions and sprinkle evenly with kosher salt. Add ice cubes and toss to combine. Let sit for 1½ to 2 hours to draw out moisture.
2. Rinse and drain: After resting, rinse the cucumber and onion mixture well under cold water to remove excess salt. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
3. Make the brine: In a large saucepan, combine white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, and crushed red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely.
4. Add vegetables to the brine: Reduce the heat to low and carefully add the cucumber and onion mixture to the hot brine. Stir gently and heat just until the mixture is warmed through—about 3–4 minutes. Do not boil.
5. Pack the pickles: Using tongs, pack the cucumber spears and onions into sterilized jars. Pour the hot brine over the vegetables, leaving about ½ inch of headspace at the top.
6. Cool and store: Let the jars cool to room temperature before sealing with lids. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving for best flavor. These refrigerator pickles will keep for up to 2 months.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 35
• Total Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 410mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 8g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 7g
• Protein: 0g

What Sets Bread and Butter Pickle Spears Apart

Bread and Butter Pickle Spears are distinguishable from other pickle varieties due to their unique balance of sweetness and tang. Unlike traditional dill pickles, which emphasize salty, garlicky notes, these pickles are crafted with a blend of sugar, vinegar, and warm spices like turmeric and mustard seed. Their crisp texture and complex flavor profile make them a nostalgic favorite with a gourmet twist. The spear shape provides a substantial crunch in every bite, making them not only delicious but also versatile in use—from snacking to sandwich-stacking.

Nutritional Benefits of Pickled Cucumbers

Although pickles are often thought of as a simple condiment, they do offer several nutritional perks—especially when made with fresh cucumbers. Cucumbers are low in calories and provide hydration, fiber, and trace minerals. When pickled, they retain many of their natural nutrients while gaining probiotic potential if fermented (though Bread and Butter pickles are usually quick-pickled). Even as a sweet variant, these pickles have modest calorie content per spear, making them a flavorful yet guilt-free snack.

Using Apple Cider Vinegar for Depth of Flavor

One of the reasons Bread and Butter Pickle Spears taste so distinct is due to the combination of white and apple cider vinegar in the brine. Apple cider vinegar adds subtle fruitiness and complexity that balances the sweetness of the sugar and the sharpness of the white vinegar. This vinegar blend not only enhances the overall flavor but also offers health benefits like aiding digestion and supporting blood sugar regulation, making it a smart and flavorful ingredient choice in home pickling.

The Role of Pickling Spices

The spice blend used in Bread and Butter Pickles is integral to their character. Mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, and sometimes red pepper flakes create a multi-layered flavor that is both familiar and distinctive. Turmeric gives the pickles their signature yellow hue and provides anti-inflammatory benefits, while mustard and celery seeds offer aromatic warmth and subtle bitterness that offset the sweet brine. Red pepper flakes can be added for heat, making the recipe customizable depending on your spice tolerance.

The Importance of Salting and Soaking

A critical step in making Bread and Butter Pickle Spears is salting the cucumbers and letting them soak with onions and ice. This process draws out excess water from the cucumbers, ensuring they remain crisp even after absorbing the hot brine. It also infuses the onions with subtle seasoning, allowing the final product to have consistent flavor throughout. Skipping this step can result in soft, soggy pickles—something every pickle lover wants to avoid.

Creative Variations and Add-ins

While the classic recipe is beloved, you can personalize your pickles with a few creative twists. Add thinly sliced bell peppers or jalapeños for color and spice, or toss in some fresh dill or coriander seeds for a unique herbal note. Some people enjoy a clove of garlic in the mix for a slightly more pungent profile. If you want an extra punch of sweetness, try adding a bit of honey or maple syrup in place of a portion of the sugar for a more nuanced natural flavor.

Ideal Pairings for Meals and Snacks

Bread and Butter Pickle Spears are a fantastic addition to a wide range of dishes. They shine as burger toppers, lending a crisp contrast to rich meats and melted cheese. They’re also perfect alongside barbecue favorites like pulled pork sandwiches, grilled chicken, or smoked ribs. For a lighter pairing, include them in a charcuterie board or antipasto platter with cured meats and cheeses. Their tangy sweetness helps cut through rich, fatty foods and adds a bright pop to nearly any savory meal.

Serving Suggestions for Maximum Enjoyment

These pickle spears are best served chilled for maximum crunch and flavor impact. Arrange them in a small bowl as a snack tray centerpiece or tuck them into sandwiches and wraps for added bite. They also make excellent garnishes for Bloody Marys or Southern-style deviled eggs. Because of their visual appeal and crowd-pleasing taste, they’re a go-to option for picnics, potlucks, and backyard cookouts. You can even chop them and mix into egg salad or tuna salad for an added zing.

Storage Tips and Shelf Life

Bread and Butter Pickle Spears made with a quick-pickling method are best stored in the refrigerator in airtight glass jars. They should be allowed to rest for at least 24 hours before eating to allow the flavors to develop fully. Properly stored, they can last up to two months, though they’re usually enjoyed well before then. While this method doesn’t involve traditional canning, it’s a safe and efficient way to preserve cucumbers for regular use. Always use clean utensils when retrieving pickles to avoid introducing bacteria.

Batch Preparation and Gifting Ideas

This recipe is ideal for small batch preservation but scales easily if you’re looking to make several jars at once. Homemade Bread and Butter Pickle Spears also make thoughtful gifts, especially when placed in decorative jars with handwritten labels. Whether for holiday baskets, hostess gifts, or party favors, these pickles are a unique, handmade treat that shows care and creativity. You can customize spice levels or even tailor flavor profiles for different recipients, adding a personal touch to your homemade pantry items.

Conclusion

Bread and Butter Pickle Spears offer a deliciously nostalgic way to enjoy cucumbers year-round. Their sweet-tangy flavor, bold spices, and crisp texture make them stand out in both casual and gourmet settings. Whether you’re serving them at a summer barbecue, adding them to your favorite sandwich, or simply enjoying them straight from the jar, these pickles are as versatile as they are tasty. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, they bring old-fashioned charm and modern appeal to your kitchen with every crunchy bite.