These Easy Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles are a classic sweet-and-tangy treat made without the hassle of traditional canning. With just a few fresh cucumbers and pantry staples, you can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes. The pickles develop their full flavor after a brief rest in the fridge and are perfect for sandwiches, burgers, salads, or snacking straight from the jar. Crisp, colorful, and packed with nostalgic flavor, this recipe is a great way to preserve summer produce without any special equipment.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 4 cups thinly sliced pickling cucumbers (about 4–5 small cucumbers)
• 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 cup white distilled vinegar
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and onions. Sprinkle with kosher salt and toss to coat. Let sit for 1 hour, then rinse thoroughly and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, brown sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring to dissolve the sugars.
4. Remove from heat and immediately pour the hot brine over the cucumbers and onions. Stir gently to combine.
5. Let the mixture cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the pickles and brine to clean glass jars or containers with lids.
6. Seal and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before eating for best flavor.
7. Pickles will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.

Nutrition Facts 

• Calories: 55
• Total Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 300mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 13g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 11g
• Protein: 0g
• Vitamin C: 6% DV
• Vitamin A: 2% DV
• Calcium: 1% DV
• Iron: 1% DV

The Signature Flavor of Bread and Butter Pickles

Bread and butter pickles are known for their balanced sweet and tangy flavor profile. Unlike sour dill pickles, these pickles use a generous amount of sugar and apple cider vinegar to create a distinctive taste that pairs beautifully with savory dishes. The addition of spices such as mustard seed, celery seed, and turmeric contributes earthy, peppery notes and a golden color that enhances their visual appeal. The mild heat from crushed red pepper flakes, if added, offers a subtle kick without overpowering the natural sweetness of the brine.

Nutritional Perks and Considerations

While bread and butter pickles contain sugar, they remain a relatively low-calorie snack, especially when consumed in moderation. They are fat-free, cholesterol-free, and contain dietary fiber from the cucumbers and onions. Pickles also provide small amounts of vitamins such as vitamin K and vitamin C, and minerals like calcium and potassium. However, they can be high in sodium, which is typical of most pickled products. To reduce the sodium content, home cooks can experiment with lowering the salt in the soaking step or using low-sodium versions of certain ingredients.

Creative Variations for Customized Pickles

This recipe is a versatile starting point for flavor experimentation. For a spicier variation, sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper can be added to the brine. Some people like to incorporate thin slices of bell peppers or carrots for additional crunch and color. Swapping white sugar with honey, agave, or maple syrup offers natural sweetener options. Fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or bay leaves can impart subtle herbal undertones. You can also experiment with different vinegars—like white wine vinegar or rice vinegar—to create a signature version suited to your taste.

Best Uses and Serving Suggestions

Bread and butter pickles are incredibly versatile and enhance a wide range of dishes. They’re a natural companion to grilled or smoked meats, including burgers, hot dogs, and barbecue sandwiches. Their sweet-tart flavor also makes them a surprising yet delicious addition to cheese boards, tuna salad, deviled eggs, and fried chicken. Chopped finely, they can be folded into potato salad or coleslaw for extra zing. Served whole or speared, they are perfect for charcuterie platters or as a tangy snack alongside crackers and cured meats.

Pairing Bread and Butter Pickles with Meals

These pickles complement both traditional comfort foods and lighter fare. Their acidic sweetness cuts through rich and fatty dishes like pulled pork or fried foods, cleansing the palate and balancing the meal. At the same time, they add brightness and crunch to vegetarian meals such as lentil burgers, chickpea wraps, or grain salads. For brunch, they work wonderfully as a garnish for savory waffles or paired with a spicy Bloody Mary. Their retro charm also makes them a favorite on picnic spreads and potluck tables.

The Role of Spices in Flavor Development

The depth of flavor in bread and butter pickles comes largely from the spice blend in the brine. Mustard seeds add mild pungency and a subtle crunch, while celery seeds lend a distinct earthiness. Ground turmeric provides not only color but a slightly bitter undertone that enhances the sweetness. Crushed red pepper adds heat, but in modest amounts, it stays in the background, highlighting other flavors. These spices bloom when simmered with the vinegar and sugar, infusing the pickles with complexity and warmth over time.

Shelf Life and Storage Tips

Refrigerator bread and butter pickles should be stored in airtight glass containers for optimal freshness and safety. Once prepared, they can last up to three weeks in the refrigerator, though their texture and flavor are best within the first one to two weeks. Always use clean utensils when handling the pickles to prevent introducing bacteria. If making multiple jars, label them with the preparation date for easy tracking. These pickles are not shelf-stable and should never be stored at room temperature unless properly canned using traditional methods.

Tips for Maintaining Crunchiness

A hallmark of a good pickle is its crunch, and this can be preserved through several techniques. Using pickling cucumbers, which are smaller and firmer than slicing cucumbers, helps ensure a crisper bite. Slicing the cucumbers evenly—preferably with a mandoline—allows for uniform texture. Salting and draining the cucumbers before adding them to the brine also removes excess moisture, reducing the risk of sogginess. Cooling the brine slightly before pouring it over the vegetables can also help keep them from softening too quickly.

Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing Appeal

Bread and butter pickles are a hit with kids and adults alike. Their mild tang and sweetness make them more approachable than sharp or sour pickles, especially for younger palates. For picky eaters or those new to pickled foods, these pickles offer a gentle introduction. They’re also great for parties and barbecues, offering a homemade touch that guests appreciate. The vibrant color and zesty flavor make them visually appealing and memorable, and because the recipe is so simple, even children can help make them as a fun kitchen activity.

Conclusion

Easy Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles combine convenience with irresistible homemade flavor. Their no-canning preparation method makes them accessible to cooks of all skill levels, and the result is a crisp, sweet-and-sour pickle that enhances everything from sandwiches to charcuterie boards. With room for endless variation and minimal effort, they’re a rewarding addition to any refrigerator. Whether you’re preserving your garden bounty or simply craving a nostalgic snack, these pickles offer a simple, satisfying way to bring bold flavor to your everyday meals.